An email client is a piece of software installed on a device (desktop, laptop, tablet, and so on) that you use to receive, send and organize your email.
It gets its name from the client-server model it relies on to store and manage all your messages automatically and intuitively.
So is it the same as webmail?
Not exactly. To access webmail you have to go to your provider’s login page, whereas an email client lives directly on your computer or mobile device.
This means you can save and archive your messages right on the device, with far more storage than a webmail account usually offers.
An email client therefore gives you more independence and a more professional way to manage your email.
The basic features of every email program
When you communicate by email, send newsletters or receive important messages from customers and coworkers, you need an email client that makes your life easier.
That’s why every email program comes with a few essential features, starting with the Drafts, Sent and Inbox folders. Some programs also sort incoming mail into categories such as promotions and social updates, and let you create custom folders.
Also make sure your email client has a good spam reporting system, so it can filter out unwanted email as effectively as possible.
The advantages of an email client
Using an email client instead of webmail brings many benefits beyond storage space.
A powerful, efficient email program lets you:
- archive your email in custom folders;
- build contact address books;
- share cloud-based documents and spreadsheets with collaborators or employees;
- manage more than one email address;
- save all your messages and attachments directly on your computer.
Data security
Besides handling your communication flow smoothly and intuitively, a good email program has to protect your privacy.
Data security and encryption of every message are a priority when it comes to business email and sharing important documents.
Choose an email client with a high level of security and features that match your personal and professional needs.
Using an email client for email marketing
When you build your email marketing campaign, also consider which email program you will rely on for your B2C communications.
A good email client should make your relationship with existing and potential customers easier and easier. Make sure your address books are well organized, so you can send the right message to the right audience.
Make all your content easy to consume, with lightweight images and a recognizable style. Make sure deliverability and data protection are at their highest level.
Finally, remember that under the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) recipients must be able to ask you to stop sending them newsletters. Place a link offering this option below your signature.