The double opt-in method is used in email marketing to add new contacts or subscribers to a mailing list, it includes a verification step where the new contact will receive an email message to confirm their signup before they can fully participate in the email campaigns.
The double opt-in method requires 3 steps:
- A person fills out your contact form or signup form.
- They receive a confirmation message through email or text message.
- Once they confirm their subscription they are added to your audience or contacts.
The double opt-in method is very beneficial although it requires more steps than the single opt-in method, it is still easy to use. One benefit is that it lets you know if the email address is valid from a working mobile phone.
It will reduce fake or invalid email addresses and show the commitment of the subscriber towards your email campaigns. For companies that are not prioritising audience growth, this double opt-in process will be recommended.
Also, it will help them satisfy certain regulations that may apply in some countries. Some people may think this method creates friction in the signup process and makes it discouraging but the result is worth it, and you will have a quality list of subscribers.
How to Configure the Double Opt-in Method
There are different options you can explore, one of the best ways is to use a third-party verification service to send your new subscribers an automated email and ask them to click on a link to confirm their subscription.
The second way is to require your new subscribers to input their email twice, the first time will be when they are signing up and the second time will be when you send them an automated email asking them to enter their email address to confirm if it is entered correctly.
These are very secure ways to verify your subscribers and make sure they intend to receive emails from your company. It also prevents people from signing up for your email list using other people’s email or invalid emails.