What re-engagement campaigns are#
A re-engagement campaign targets inactive subscribers with a deliberate attempt to win them back; a sunset policy defines when to stop sending to those who do not respond.
Why it matters#
Continuing to mail unengaged contacts teaches providers your mail is unwanted. Sunsetting protects the rest of the list.
How mailbox providers use it#
Gmail, Microsoft, and Yahoo combine authentication results, sender reputation, and recipient engagement into a placement decision made per message. Re-engagement campaigns feeds directly into that model, and weaknesses compound with other signals.
How to measure the impact#
- Baseline inbox placement with seed tests before any change.
- Make one change at a time and hold volume steady.
- Re-test after 48 to 72 hours; provider models need time to update.
- Track Postmaster Tools and SNDS alongside your seed results.
Improving it#
- Define inactivity: no clicks or replies in 90 days is a common threshold.
- Send a 2 to 3 message win-back series with a clear ask to stay subscribed.
- Suppress anyone who does not engage after the series.
- Keep a record of suppressed contacts for compliance and future opt-in.
Frequently asked questions#
Will sunsetting hurt my revenue?
Rarely. Inactive contacts produce little revenue, and improved placement for engaged contacts usually offsets any loss.