Overview
Cornerstone's CRM capabilities allow you to send marketing emails to your customers directly from the software. This article explains how to create and send marketing emails, manage opt-out preferences, handle duplicate addresses, and work with Cornerstone when sending large campaigns.
Use the Inquiry/Mail > EMAIL feature to stay in touch with customers and promote your services.
How to Send Marketing Emails
Creating Your Marketing Email
Use Inquiry/Mail > EMAIL to create marketing communications:
- Navigate to Inquiry/Mail > EMAIL
- Craft your subject line
- Write the body of the email
- Attach an uploaded PDF if desired — such as newsletters, color advertisements, or announcements
- Select your recipient list
- Send
Marketing Email Opt-Out Feature
Respecting Customer Preferences
Some customers don't wish to receive marketing emails. Cornerstone includes an 'opt out' field for each email address in the customer record specifically for Marketing Emails.
How It Works:
- The opt-out exclusion only applies when using Inquiry/Mail > EMAIL
- Opted-out customers will NOT receive marketing emails sent through this feature
- All email addresses will continue to receive:
- Emailed invoices and statements
- Inquiry/Mail letters that are generated and set for email
⚠️ IMPORTANT
Letters are used for communicating important account information, not marketing, so the opt-out does not apply to them. Only the Inquiry/Mail > EMAIL feature is affected by the opt-out setting.
Duplicate Email Handling
If multiple accounts share the same email address, only one email will be sent to that address. This prevents customers from receiving duplicate marketing messages.
Example
If you have three customer accounts all using manager@propertycompany.com, that email address will receive only one copy of your marketing email, even though it's associated with multiple accounts.
Large Email Batches and SPAM Prevention
Email Volume Management
To prevent your emails from being flagged as SPAM, Cornerstone manages large email batches carefully.
⚠️ IMPORTANT
If your email campaign exceeds 75 recipients, a warning message will appear stating: "Email exceeds the number of emails to go out in one session." You'll be prompted to contact Cornerstone to execute the mailing.
Why This Matters:
- Cornerstone manages the transmission for you to maintain deliverability
- Prevents your emails from being flagged as SPAM
- Ensures better inbox placement rates
- Protects your domain reputation
For Large Campaigns
If you need to send marketing emails to more than 75 customers:
- Create your email as usual
- When you see the warning message, contact Cornerstone
- We'll manage the transmission process to ensure successful delivery
Contact: 847-405-9517 or email customer.success@alarmbills.com
Best Practices
Content Recommendations
- Subject Lines: Keep them clear and engaging
- Email Body: Be concise and include a clear call-to-action
- Attachments: Use professional PDF attachments for newsletters or promotional materials
- Frequency: Don't over-email your customers — respect their inbox
List Management
- Regularly review and respect opt-out preferences
- Segment your audience when appropriate
- Keep email content relevant to your customer base
Compliance
- Honor all opt-out requests promptly
- Include clear identification of your business
- Provide value in your marketing communications
Use Cases
| Use Case | Description |
|---|---|
| Seasonal Promotions | Send announcements about special offers, seasonal maintenance programs, or limited-time discounts. |
| Service Announcements | Inform customers about new services, expanded offerings, or technology upgrades available. |
| Educational Content | Share newsletters with safety tips, industry updates, or information about new security technologies. |
| Company Updates | Keep customers informed about business changes, new locations, awards, or community involvement. |
| Customer Appreciation | Send thank-you messages, anniversary acknowledgments, or loyalty program information. |
Key Benefits
| Benefit | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Built-In CRM Tool | No need for separate email marketing software |
| Opt-Out Management | Automatically respects customer preferences |
| Duplicate Prevention | Smart handling of shared email addresses |
| SPAM Protection | Managed delivery for large campaigns maintains your reputation |
| PDF Attachments | Share professional marketing materials alongside your message |
| Customer Engagement | Stay top-of-mind with your customer base |
What's Not Affected by Marketing Opt-Out
Customers who opt out of marketing emails will still receive all critical business communications, ensuring nothing important is missed while their marketing preferences are fully respected:
- Invoice emails
- Statement emails
- Important account communications sent via Inquiry/Mail letters
- Service-related notifications
Need Additional Help?
Our Customer Success team is here to assist you.
Phone: 847-405-9517 x1
Email: customer.success@alarmbills.com
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