Building a successful home business is a combination of many factors. You need to find the right idea for yourself, consider the niche you'll work in, and find your target market. That's why list building can be such an important step in the beginnings of your business. With a great list, you'll have a direct line of contact with the people who are most interested in what you have to offer. This list is an invaluable tool for your business. Here are the top five rules for list building.

1. Give people something valuable for joining your list

To begin list building, you need a way to get people to sign up. Many people are tired of the many emails they receive each day and may be reluctant to give you their email address if you don't provide them with a clear reason to do so initially. Make it worth their time up front.

2. Respect inboxes

After you've received subscribers to your list, be sure to respect their inboxes. Though you may be focused on list building, remember that you want to keep your existing subscribers on your list as well. Don't bombard people with meaningless messages each day.

3. Provide regular content of value

In order to continue effective list building, send out regular valuable content to your subscribers. When people are receiving great information from you, they are likely to pass on your list to their friends as well. You'll also keep people from hitting the "unsubscribe" button -- instead, they'll look forward to your messages.

4. Keep sales marketing to a good ratio

Though the purpose of list building is to ultimately build a platform from which you can sell to the most interested prospects, strive for a balance of sales messages and informative messages. Make sure that you're providing a little bit more solid content and value for every sales message you send.

5. Thank your subscribers regularly

Be sure to appreciate your subscribers and the people who have signed up for your list. Because there are so many services and businesses out there fighting to get email addresses, you should know that people are truly interested in your product when they sign up for your emails. Though you can still focus on list building with new subscribers, be sure to thank your existing subscribers regularly and provide them with special extras to show your appreciation.

By following these essential rules to building a valuable list full of people who are interested in receiving your content, you can quickly create a great sales platform for yourself. Effective list building is one of the most important steps you can take to help your business increase sales.