Selling advertising space for your yearbook can sometimes be challenging. It takes a dedicated team and a lot of time to be successful. Typical methods to fundraise for your yearbook usually include going door-to-door or via a call-a-thon to local businesses.

Email MarketingThis year instead of the typical methods why not try utilizing email? Research the top 30 to 50 local businesses in the area and then call, not to sell them but to ask for the owners (or decision makers) email address. Make sure to tell them who you are what you will be emailing them about. This way you aren’t spamming.

Then put these emails into a CSV or excel document and sign up for an online email software program. Some basic popular programs include Constant Contact and MailChimp (both offer FREE trial accounts).

Once you have a list they have a bunch of templates within the portal that you are easily able to edit. Be sure to use a colorful, easy to read fonts and try to state your case on why advertisers should sponsor the book. You can do this by:

  • Explaining how advertising in your yearbook can benefit their business.
  • What exactly the funds are going too.
  • An easy call-to-action on how they can make their purchase or for the various options they have available to them.

Don’t spam and send out an email everyday. Send it out once every month or so and always update the subject line.

By utilizing email instead of the phone or face-to-face method makes it less uncomfortable for the business owner to be put on the spot. This gives them an opportunity to think about it and be able to get back to you without having to provide an immediate response.

Sometimes “out-of-the-box” ideas are all that is needed to get those fundraising dollars you greatly want and need.