AFFILIATE MARKETING
Is it The Best Email Tool For Small Businesses in 2023?
In this AWeber review, we’re going to be talking about why this email marketing software is one of the best options out there for small businesses. We will walk you through all of the features it offers, as well as the pros and cons so that you can decide for yourself whether it’s the right tool for you.
Email is one of the most powerful and affordable ways to connect with your customers. After all, most people check their email every single day! So if you haven’t already started growing your email list, it’s time to get cracking.
The good news is AWeber has a completely free plan available for your first 500 subscribers, so if you want to give it a try, it won’t cost you a thing.
AWeber Review
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Ease of Use
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Stability
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Customer Service
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Price
Summary
AWeber is one of the best email marketing tools around for small businesses and anyone new to the world of email marketing. This is largely thanks to its unparalleled customer service and easy-to-use templates. There’s a completely free plan available for your first 500 subscribers, so you can try it out risk-free.
Pros
- Fantastic customer service
- Drag-and-drop editor
- Easily build forms and landing pages
- Free plan available
- Over 600 email templates to take advantage of
- Build emails easily using a drag-and-drop builder
- Easy-to-use app
- Integrates with over 750 third-party services
Cons
- Some consider the automation options a little basic
- Could be considered expensive if you have a high number of subscribers
- Lacks some advanced features
AWeber Review: The Main Features
AWeber is a powerful email marketing tool that enables you to manage and optimize all of your email marketing campaigns from one place.
This popular platform has gained over 120,000 business and individual users since its launch in 1998. While these are impressive figures, the platform remains a smaller business than its main competitors like GetResponse and Mailchimp.
AWeber includes everything you need to create high-converting lead magnets, which you can use to grow your email list. It also gives you the ability to create automation sequences by using its built-in email autoresponder.
It’s one of the easiest email marketing tools to get to grips with, too. Once you sign up, you will be guided through the whole process and shown how to use the analytics data to understand and optimize your marketing campaigns.
Email Marketing
Email marketing might sound simple, but the trick is getting recipients to actually WANT to open your emails.
After all, sending emails might seem easy in itself, but if no one is opening them and engaging in your content, what substance are they adding to your business?
AWeber gives you the tools you need to design professional emails that get delivered, get opened, and get the desired results. This is exactly what you want from each and every email marketing campaign that you put your efforts into.
With ready-made email templates and access to thousands of stock images, putting together beautiful, engaging emails is made easy.
You can send automated emails too, such as welcome emails, order confirmations, and those ‘you’ve left something in your basket’ emails.
Email Marketing Automation
AWeber’s automation tool makes marketing your business effortless. Simply create your desired email, configure your automation, and start the process while the software takes care of the rest, in true ‘set it and forget it’ style.
The segmentation features allow you to split your list into different segments to ensure the right people get the right emails.
Your list can be segmented by:
- Information collected at signup
- Location
- Tags (manually or automatically applied)
- Purchases
- The pages they visited on your website
- The links they clicked
Ensuring a high conversion rate is also helped by the abandoned cart alert feature. This automatically sends an email when a customer leaves the page with items in their basket. An absolute must for e-commerce entrepreneurs!
And if you run a YouTube channel, podcast, blog, or online course, you can set it up to automatically email your list every time new content is published. This helps to keep your engagement rate as high as possible without any additional work on your part.
Email Templates
AWeber includes over 600 email templates that you can use to create a beautiful, professional-looking email in minutes, even if design isn’t your strong point.
Once you have set up your email template, it can be used over and over again without any further time investment. You simply paste your content into the template, and you’re ready to go.
With a high percentage of people reading emails on mobile devices, it’s good to know that AWeber has a preview feature. This means you can ensure your emails look exactly how you want them to before hitting send. It even shows you how they will present on mobile devices during dark mode operation.
All of this goes to ensure your email marketing is as effective as possible with minimum effort.
Drag and Drop Email Builder
AWeber has a drag-and-drop email builder, which you can use to create an email template from scratch or use in conjunction with one of the pre-designed email templates.
The drag-and-drop functionality helps to ensure that the whole process is made as quick and easy as possible. Even those not experienced in this field can put together polished, professional-looking emails.
Reporting and Analytics
AWeber provides you with an easy-to-read Analytics dashboard to help you optimize your marketing efforts.
From here, you can view data on every email you have sent, including:
- Opens
- Clicks
- New subscribers
- Sales
- Unsubscribes
It includes all of the data you need to work out the best send times to maximize your click-throughs and open rates.
You can also A/B split test up to three email variations at a time to test what gets the best results.
AWeber Integrations
AWeber has a wide range of integrations available. You can easily connect your AWeber account to a range of social media platforms, shopping carts, and even blog-building services. Some integration options include:
- WordPress
- PayPal
- Blogger
- Elementor
- Square Space
- FreshBooks
- Book like a Boss
- Google Analytics
- HubSpot CRM
- Freshworks
- Salesforce
- EKM
- Shopify
So if there’s any feature you need that isn’t already included, you can be fairly confident that there will be an integration available.
AWeber Review: Customer Support
If you’re someone that judges a company on the level of customer service that they offer, then you’ll be delighted to know that they offer 24/7 customer service. Their contact us page gives you a variety of ways to get in touch with their team.
- Phone – 8 am to 8 pm ET USA with a toll-free number for customers
- Live Chat – Online 24/7
- Email Support – Contact them, and they will respond 24/7
Their contact us page will even tell you whether their systems are operational.
They also have a comprehensive resources page made up of things like template galleries, marketing guides, and email advice from AWeber experts, so getting a helping hand is never too far away.
Is AWeber Easy to Use?
In general, AWeber is pretty easy to get to grips with. With a drag-and-drop email builder putting together catchy emails is certainly made simple. Especially if you take advantage of their email templates and the free stock images AWeber gives you access to.
Designing simple forms and landing pages is made simple too. All in all, although any email marketing platform will take some getting used to, most would consider AWeber easy to use.
AWeber Pros and Cons
With any software option like this, there are always going to be pros and cons. And some of those will vary based on each user’s opinion; AWeber is no exception.
Pros:
- Fantastic customer service
- Drag-and-drop editor
- Easily build forms and landing pages
- Free plan available
- Over 600 email templates to take advantage of
- Build emails easily using a drag-and-drop builder
- Easy-to-use app
- Integrates with over 750 third-party services
Cons:
- Some consider the automation options a little basic
- It could be considered expensive if you have a high number of subscribers
- Lacks some advanced features
AWeber Review: Pricing
One of the best things about AWeber is that they have different packages at different price points available. This is great news because it means that whatever your needs and budget are, you should be able to find something that suits you.
- Free Plan – If you have only basic needs from your email marketing, then the AWeber free package could be right up your street. It’s suitable for those that have less than 500 subscribers and only need one landing page and one email automation rule.
- AWeber Pro – AWeber has a pro package that works on a sliding scale based on how many subscribers you have. For example, if you have up to 500 subscribers, then you’ll pay $19.99/month, whereas for 25,000 subscribers, you’ll need to pay $149.99/month. There are also packages throughout the middle of these two points, depending on your subscriber count.
If you decide on a package and are able to pay annually, then you’ll also bag yourself a discount. Pro plans include unlimited email lists, advanced automation, split testing, removed AWeber branding, and more!
Who is AWeber Best For?
AWeber is a great choice for small businesses that are looking for a solid email marketing tool that won’t break the bank. Their customer service is unparalleled, so it’s a particularly good choice for anyone who is new to email marketing, as you can rest assured that there will always be someone on hand to help should you need it.
It’s also a great choice for like bloggers, YouTubers, and podcasters, who find that regular contact with their subscribers helps their social media channels and, therefore, their businesses grow.
AWeber Alternatives
As you might imagine, when it comes to email marketing software, there are plenty of alternatives on the market. This is great news because it means that whatever you are looking for from an email marketing service provider, you can be confident there will be an option that suits you perfectly.
For many people, AWeber ticks the boxes completely, knowing there are alternatives for everyone can only be a good thing. Here are a couple of our favorite alternatives.
Convertkit
ConvertKit has some great options for those that are looking to offer subscription options to their mailing list subscribers. It’s known for being one of the best email marketing software tools for those in the blogging and influencer industries.
Many people say that ConvertKit has the edge when it comes to how easy the platform is to use, and like AWeber, it has a free plan available, so you can try it out risk-free.
It’s worth noting that ConvertKit’s free plan doesn’t include any automation features, but paid plans with access to all features start at just $9.
Sendinblue
If you’re looking for an all-in-one digital marketing tool with a built-in CRM that is easy to set up and quick to get to grips with, then arguably SendinBlue is the option for you.
SendinBlue has some great options for sales pipelines and marketing automation, so if you’re looking for software that does more than just email marketing, then this could be the right choice for you.
Check out our full Sendinblue review for the full lowdown on this awesome tool.
AWeber Review: The Verdict
Whether a platform like this is the right one for you or not is always going to be a personal choice, but if you are looking for email marketing tools with a range of features to take advantage of, then AWeber could be the right choice for you.
Not only that, but one thing that comes up time and time again is the unparalleled customer support that they offer.
This is great news for those looking to get started with something like this because knowing you have knowledgeable and experienced people to guide you through is always a great thing. Overall, it is sometimes considered a pricier option for this type of software, but the level of support you get and the range of features help to ensure you get great value for money.
Hopefully, this AWeber review has helped you make a decision. But if you’re still on the fence, it’s definitely worth checking out the free plan. It gives you access to all of the basic features so you can try it out for size risk-free.
AFFILIATE MARKETING
Cut Costs, Not Features with This Microsoft Bundle Deal
Disclosure: Our goal is to feature products and services that we think you’ll find interesting and useful. If you purchase them, Entrepreneur may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners.
Software subscription fees can quickly add up, and for small-business owners, entrepreneurs, or freelancers, these costs can eat into profits. Businesses spend approximately 29% of their IT budgets on software, according to a 2023 survey by Gartner.
For business professionals who are looking to streamline workflow without paying steep subscription fees, the Ultimate 2019 Microsoft Bundle might be the perfect solution. For just $71.94 (regularly $927), this comprehensive four-part bundle offers Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2019, Windows 11 Pro, Project 2019, and Visio 2019.
While it’s not the newest version of Microsoft’s software, it can deliver tremendous value for anyone seeking tools to manage their business, boost productivity, and work efficiently. The bundle offers a lifetime license, meaning you’ll get all the functionality you need without the recurring costs associated with subscription services like Microsoft 365.
However, it does come with Windows 11 Pro, which includes the recent AI updates. Windows 11 Pro delivers a modern, intuitive interface with enhanced security features such as biometric login and Smart App Control, making it ideal for professionals who prioritize privacy and usability. It’s also equipped with tools that support multitasking, such as Snap Layouts and Virtual Desktops.
For companies looking to reduce overhead without compromising essential functionality, making a one-time purchase of slightly older software is a smart financial move. This includes Office’s most popular productivity tools, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
Project 2019 is a must-have for anyone who is managing large or small projects. It helps track tasks, timelines, and resources, making it easier to stay on top of deadlines and ensure your team moves in the right direction. Project 2019 gives you the tools to streamline processes and manage tasks efficiently.
Visio 2019 is ideal for creating professional diagrams, flowcharts, and organizational charts. It’s particularly valuable for visualizing complex data or workflows, which is essential for business owners looking to improve operational efficiency.
If you need a productivity boost without eating into savings, take a closer look at this bundle.
Get the Ultimate 2019 Microsoft Bundle with Office, Project, Visio, and Windows 11 Pro for $71.94 (regularly $927).
StackSocial prices subject to change.
AFFILIATE MARKETING
3 Trends That Will Change the Future of Entrepreneurship
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
The most recent data from the new Global Entrepreneurship Monitor report reveals a powerful trend for the future of entrepreneurship.
Young adults, aged 18-24, had both the highest entrepreneurial activity and entrepreneurial intentions in the United States, according to the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor 2023-2024 United States Report. With similar results in 2022, this is not just a minor shift — it’s a fundamental change that could have lasting impacts on the economy and society.
I serve as the chair of the board for the Global Entrepreneurship Research Association, the entity that oversees GEM, which was founded in 1999 as a joint venture of Babson College and the London Business School. As the GEM U.S. team co-leader and a professor of entrepreneurship at Babson, I see firsthand the impact of the research created by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor.
Here are three entrepreneurship trends from the new GEM report that are changing the landscape for the future.
Related: 21 Success Tips for Young and Aspiring Entrepreneurs
1. Young entrepreneurs on the rise
For years, entrepreneurship has been dominated by older, more experienced individuals, but this year’s report shows that the youngest adults are now at the forefront. According to GEM, 24% of 18- to 24-year-olds are engaged in some form of entrepreneurial activity, a higher rate than any other age group. What’s driving these young entrepreneurs is equally remarkable: They aren’t just starting businesses to make money; many are deeply committed to making a positive impact on society and the environment.
These young entrepreneurs make sustainability a key priority. They are more likely than entrepreneurs from older generations to build businesses with sustainability as a core focus — whether that means reducing their environmental footprint or focusing on social causes. This shift toward impact-driven entrepreneurship isn’t just anecdotal. GEM data shows a significant number of young entrepreneurs taking real, measurable steps to create businesses that align with their values. With sustainability as their north star, young entrepreneurs appear to be simultaneously pursuing societal impact as well as profits.
However, it’s not all smooth sailing. While young people are leading the way in starting businesses, they are also discontinuing them at higher rates than their older counterparts. The discontinuation rate for 18- to 24-year-olds is 15%, the highest among all age groups. This is not surprising, given the challenges of inexperience and more limited access to capital. Starting a business is tough, and sustaining one is even more challenging. But despite these hurdles, the enthusiasm and energy that young people bring to entrepreneurship are undeniable, and with the right support, this generation has the potential to drive substantial change.
2. Tech gender gap narrows
One of the most promising findings in the GEM report is the narrowing gender gap in the technology sector. Historically, tech startups have been dominated by men, but 2023 saw a record-low difference in the number of men and women starting tech companies. The gap has narrowed to just 1%, with 8% of women compared with 9% of men launching businesses in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector.
This is a significant step forward and reflects broader efforts to support more women technology startups. Still, it’s important to recognize that while progress is being made, continued focus on providing equal opportunities is essential to ensuring this trend continues.
3. Optimistic outlook for Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs
Another highlight from the report is the optimistic outlook among Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs. These groups showed stronger confidence in their entrepreneurial abilities and lower fear of failure compared to their white counterparts. Black respondents, in particular, demonstrated high levels of resilience and self-assurance, which is vital in overcoming barriers faced in starting and sustaining businesses. This optimism is encouraging, but there’s still much work to be done in assuring ecosystems offer equal opportunities for all aspiring entrepreneurs, regardless of their background.
Related: I Wish I Received This Advice as a Young Entrepreneur
A promising future
Reflecting on the key findings of this year’s GEM report, it’s clear that the entrepreneurial landscape is changing in meaningful ways. The rise of young, sustainability-driven entrepreneurs signals a future where business is not only about profit but also about making a difference. These young entrepreneurs are launching businesses at a time when the world is looking for solutions to some of its most pressing challenges — climate change, poverty and economic recovery.
Yet, to fully realize the potential of this next generation, there must be more focus on addressing the challenges they encounter. Young entrepreneurs need access to the right resources — whether it’s funding, education or mentorship — to turn their innovative ideas into sustainable businesses. The narrowing gender gap in tech is encouraging, but we must continue to foster environments that support women and other underrepresented groups in entrepreneurship.
The GEM report paints a picture of an entrepreneurial future driven by purpose, diversity and innovation. But it also reminds us of the work that lies ahead in making entrepreneurship more accessible and sustainable. If we can provide young entrepreneurs with the tools and support they need, we will not only see more businesses being created — we’ll see businesses that are making a lasting, positive impact on the world.
AFFILIATE MARKETING
These Are the Top Side Hustles to Work Less, Make More Money
In the best-case scenario, a side hustle could turn into a multimillion-dollar business that generates a passive income stream — but at the very least, starting a side gig could help pay some bills.
A new survey from personal finance software company Quicken shows that almost half (43%) of Americans with a side hustle, or an extra source of income added to a primary income, make more money and clock in fewer hours overall than those without a side hustle.
The three most popular side hustles pursued by those who work less and make more money were personal assistance (20%), cooking and baking (16%), and caregiving (16%). One in five people with side hustles said they were business owners, too, selling products online or offering services like photography.
The majority of people with side hustles (82%) said starting a side gig helped them financially, and kept them from living paycheck to paycheck. Most with side hustles (57%) had savings equal to at least four months of living expenses.
The survey also found that, for younger side hustlers, a way to an extra income doubles as a path to becoming more employable. 44% of Gen Z (born between 1997 and 2012) choose to start a side hustle in order to obtain skills for long-term careers, much higher than the overall 18% of Americans who started a side hustle with the same motivation.
Quicken conducted the survey online, gathering responses from more than 1,000 Americans.
Additional research on side hustles, released in August by NEXT Insurance, showed that three out of five people bring in less than $1,000 monthly in side income, while 22% make $1,000 to $10,000 a month, and 15% make more than $10,000.
Related: Starting a Side Hustle Should Come With a Warning Label — Here’s What You Need to Know
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