Auto responders are simply software applications that are used to respond to emails automatically that have been sent to it. Once an email is sent to the responder it sends a formatted response back to the sender. The auto responder can be programmed to track the addresses of the senders. A database of these emails can be compiled for future communication. Auto responders can help an entrepreneur save time and energy when used ethically and of course earn money online.

There are companies who provide email distribution, compilation of email databases, and auto responder services. Most of them use a code placed on your website or blog. The code provides an online form. The visitor inputs their name and email address and hits the respond or click button to send the message to the auto responder.

Auto responders are an excellent tool for automating a business. Visitors usually have 3 options when at a website, either buy a product or service, leave their follow-up information like emails addresses or simply click away and move to another site. Clicking away is the worst choice for the site owner. Even if the visitor would like to return they often don't remember the name of the site or how they found it in the first place. Offering a free report or newsletter through an auto responder is one way to capture their contact information.

A word of caution, while you can ask for lots of personal information on the subscription form, the more you request, the less likely the visitor is to comply. First name and email address are the best choices.

Follow up messages, or your newsletter, can be personalized with the first name of the subscriber. Most people need at least 7 exposures to a product or service before they buy. An auto responder series can build trust and increase the visibility of your product as long as it includes solid content and information the subscriber can use as well as a sales pitch.

While it's possible to buy software to install your own auto responders, many Internet marketers prefer to use services. Spam is a huge problem these days. The services use a double opt in requirement. That means the subscriber has to agree twice to receive email from you. The services also automatically unsubscribe someone from your lists. The double opt in and automatic unsubscribe decreases the probability that someone on your list will accuse you of spamming them.

Used properly auto responders can help you earn money online.