Why Email Marketing is Still the Best ROI for SMBs

Still debating between social media and email marketing? Here’s why your inbox is still your most valuable asset.

As a small or medium-sized business (SMB), you're probably bombarded with advice on where to invest your marketing dollars. Should you dive headfirst into social media? Go big on Google Ads? While these platforms have their place, there’s one trusty tool that’s been around since the dawn of the internet and still reigns supreme when it comes to ROI: email marketing.

Yes, your inbox—the same one where you receive newsletters, discount codes, and maybe a few too many spam emails—is a goldmine for your business. Let’s break down why email marketing is still the undefeated champ of ROI and how it can boost your business.

Cost-Effective Like No Other

Imagine being able to send a message to hundreds—or even thousands—of people without needing to take out a second mortgage on your marketing budget. That’s the magic of email marketing! The beauty lies in its simplicity: no fancy production costs, no paying for ad space. For SMBs who are minding their budget, it’s an absolute game-changer.

Compared to those flashy paid ads that charge you per click, impression, or even sneeze, email marketing lets you connect with your audience consistently without draining your wallet. Think of it like getting free refills on coffee all day—except it’s your marketing dollars that keep refilling!

Direct Communication (No Guessing Games)

When someone subscribes to your email list, they're giving you the green light to pop into their inbox. It’s a lot more personal than trying to catch their attention as they scroll past cute dog videos on Instagram. Email marketing is like being handed the keys to their front door—you’re not just hoping they’ll notice your ad amongst the chaos; you’re showing up exactly where they expect you.

And here’s the best part: Emails can be personalised based on your customer’s preferences, making it feel like you’re having a one-on-one conversation with them. It’s like you’re whispering sweet nothings into their ear, while social media is like shouting into a megaphone at a crowded party.

Drives Conversions Like a Pro

Sure, getting likes and shares on social media is fun (who doesn’t love a good meme?), but you know what’s even better? Cold, hard sales. Email marketing isn’t about racking up vanity metrics—it’s laser-focused on converting leads into customers. Whether it’s getting someone to sign up for your webinar, buy your latest product, or jump on that special offer, email is built for results.

And the stats don’t lie. According to recent studies, for every $1 spent on email marketing, businesses see an average return of $40. That’s a whopping 4,000% ROI! If email marketing were a stock, it’d be like buying Apple shares in the '90s.

Easy to Automate (Set It and Forget It)

One of the best things about email marketing? You can put it on autopilot. Once you’ve set up automated email campaigns—like welcoming new subscribers, sending personalised product recommendations, or nudging customers who abandoned their shopping carts—it works tirelessly behind the scenes while you focus on running your business.

Think of it as having a super-efficient employee who never sleeps, never calls in sick, and always knows exactly what to say. And best of all? You only have to pay them once.

But What About Social Media?

Now, don’t get us wrong—social media has its place. It’s fantastic for building brand awareness and engaging with your followers in real-time. But when it comes to delivering targeted messages that actually convert to sales, email marketing is in a league of its own. Social media algorithms are about as predictable as the weather, but with email, you control the conversation. No more relying on the whims of a mysterious algorithm to get your message seen.

Time to Supercharge Your Inbox with Daily Digital

If you’re an SMB looking to stretch your marketing budget and boost your ROI, email is your golden ticket. At Daily Digital, we specialise in creating email marketing strategies that deliver real results. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your campaigns, we’ll help you turn those emails into sales, one inbox at a time.

Ready to make your inbox the MVP of your marketing strategy? Let’s get started!