Notice your emails are showing as "unverified" in inboxes, or worse yet, not delivering at all? You’re not alone. It’s all because of new email deliverability requirements. In June 2024, they tightened the reins on email domains, and if you’re not up to speed, you may be damaging your domain's sending reputation. Let’s dive into why this is happening and what you can do about it.
Domain Authentication is KING
So, your emails are suddenly acting up? It’s probably because of authentication. Here’s why setting up DKIM, SPF, and DMARC correctly is crucial:
Prevents Phishing and Spoofing: Protects your recipients and your reputation.
Boosts Sender Reputation: Shows ISPs that you’re trustworthy.
Improves Deliverability: Ensures your emails land in inboxes, not spam folders.
Steps to Fix Your Email Deliverability
Here’s what you need to do to get back on track:
Set Up Email Authentication: Implement/update your domain's DKIM, SPF, and DMARC records. You'll need to work with your domain host if they are not within your organization to add the records.
Ongoing Maintenance of Marketing/Newsletter Email Account (like MailChimp): Keep an eye on your spam rates and opens/clicks. We'd also recommend cleaning your marketing lists quarterly for addresses bouncing or not opening your emails.
CNAME Record Checklist
DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail): Ensures email content isn’t altered.
SPF (Sender Policy Framework): Verifies authorized mail servers.
DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance): Aligns SPF and DKIM for added security.
Overwhelmed? We can help.
We have an On-Demand Masterclass: 12-Month Donor Email Journey Masterclass that addresses this very issue--plus gives you a step-by-step guide to stay in front of new donors in a 12-month personalized email drip.
Or, prefer to talk to us directly? Email cfgrowthinstitute@bowercomm.com and we can give you a free trial to a weekly coaching call with Lori and Jo, who can provide technical assistance and advice.