In this episode, Chris is joined by the legendary Sam Ashdown—a powerhouse when it comes to direct mail strategy for estate agents. Whether you're in Birmingham, Belfast, or Bognor Regis, if you're unsure where to start with direct mail or struggling to make it work, Sam delivers a masterclass in consistency, clarity, and copywriting that converts.Expect practical advice, juicy anecdotes, and a few mic-drop moments. What You’ll Learn:- 🎯 Where to start with direct mail Hint: define your goal first!- 📬 The difference between high-value campaigns and mass-market mailings- 🧠 How to get team buy-in using Sam’s Lead Generation Planner- 📝 The *pillar letters* you should always be sending: - On the market letters - monthly, not trigger-based - Not on the market market update letters - quarterly - Withdrawn/Try Again emotional storytelling letters - Plus: buyer waiting, just listed, and valuation-in-your-street letters - 💌 Envelope secrets that dramatically boost open rates - DL size, blue pen, handwritten, stamp not franked- 📏 How to write like a pro: The "Box 5" envelope method- 💡 Why simplicity and consistency *always beat* flashy or complicated campaignsSam’s Top 5 Mistakes Agents Make with Direct Mail:1. Talking about themselves in the letter 2. Believing generic leaflets still work 3. Inconsistency in sending mail 4. Sounding too corporate - ditch the "we" and formal tone 5. Cutting costs with franking - it’s killing your open rateThe Gold Is in the Story:Sam’s winning “Try Again” letter format uses real, emotional stories to relate to withdrawn vendors without telling them how they should feel.Free Resources & Templates:Sam is sharing a treasure trove of goodies mentioned in this episode, including:- Envelope-writing guide - Direct mail planner - Letter templates - Possibly a video walk-through📥 Grab everything here: https://ajmastermind.co.uk/eam 🔁 Key Takeaway:A consistent rubbish letter beats an inconsistent great one—but aim for both: great and consistent.