Email marketing campaigns are a common and often effective way to reach out to clients and customers. It’s a logical choice for a business communication channel — despite the numerous networks and platforms we have to send messages, email is arguably the most ubiquitous, and it’s less intrusive and personal than a text or direct message on social media.

This presents a challenge for companies: Because everyone uses email, it’s becoming harder and harder to stand out. After all, how can you compete with the 269 billion global emails being sent every day?

To effectively capture your customers’ attention, look beyond the typical email blast and follow these nine strategies recommended by Forbes Coaches Council.

1. Pick Up The Phone 

Call key customers to check in on their satisfaction, and then share good news with them. We’re so used to email communication that customers would be surprised if you actually called them to check in. This takes effort and demonstrates that you seek to have a rapport with them that extends beyond technology. – LaKisha Greenwade, Lucki Fit LLC

2. Ask For Their Feedback 

Getting clients to participate in podcasts, open houses or webinars is a great way for them to feel valued and included and to see you at work in a different environment. It gives you both a chance to collaborate and work together in a different way to build bonds, share ideas, and create something you both can have ownership of. Added bonus: It’s a great way to brand-build for both of you. – Rose Cartolari, Rose Cartolari Consulting

3. Send A Handwritten Note Or Card 

In a world consumed by email and social media, many people fail to realize the power of a handwritten note on nice stationary or a card sent just because. Writing a personal message and mailing it says, “I took the time to think of you.” Not only does a handwritten note help you stand out, it also sets you apart from your competition, as most entrepreneurs omit this simple communication strategy. – Lori Manns, Quality Media Consultant Group

4. Put Yourself Where Your Clients Already Are 

Branding isn’t always direct. A highly effective way to gain the attention of clients is to show up where they already are. What are they reading? What events or conferences do they attend? A feature in a publication they already read or presenting at conferences they frequent gains their attention, cements your subject matter expertise in their minds and makes you desirable. – Kevin Wright, Kevin Wright