Getting Rid of Junk Mail

The First Step to Getting Off the Junk Mail Treadmill

Just as sure as you will always day-dream a little while you read, so too will you always receive some junk mail. But how much depends upon the strategy you use.

Step 1 - GET OFF THE LISTS!

STOP it at the source. The most efficient way to reduce your junk mail is by contacting the direct marketing companies who buy and sell the mailing lists with your information on them.

Try: Write to this address to remove your name from unsolicited mailing lists. Include your name, home address, your polite request, and your signature. Make sure to include the many variations of your personal mailing information (e.g. J. Doe, Mrs. J. Doe and Jane Doe).

Mail Preference Service
The Direct Marketing Association
P.O. Box 9008
Farmingdale, NY 11735-9008

Try: To get your name removed from all the current lists sold by the big three credit-gathering organizations (Equifax, Trans Union, and Experion - formerly TRW), call for a program called "OptOut" at their automated toll-free number 1-888-567-8688. You may still get some junk mail, however, as companies and organizations who previously purchased your name from these and other lists will not necessarily be notified.

In about three months you should see a reduction in unsolicited mail you receive at home. For more information, contact the Mail Preference Service at the address above for their consumer tip sheet.

Try: You can also check out http://www.privatecitizen.com for more options to reduce junk mail, or register with http://www.junkbusters.com

Added Tip: For about $20 a year you can join the Stop Junk Mail Association. They will delete your name and lobby to protect your postal privacy.

Stop Junk Mail Association
c/o 3020 Bridgeway, Suite 150
Sausalito, CA 94965
(800) 827-5549

 

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Abby Marks Beale is founder of The Corporate Educator, a professional speaking and training company specializing in helping with busy people work smarter, faster and just plain better. Go to www.TheCorporateEducator.com.