Building an email list can be an incredibly valuable asset for your business or blog. Email marketing has one of the highest ROI of any marketing channel, and having a list of engaged subscribers allows you to directly reach your ideal customers. However, building a list from scratch takes time and effort. With the right strategy though, you can start growing your email subscriber list today.
Start by Defining Your Target Audience
Before you start building your email list, you need to have a clear picture of who you want to reach. Defining your target audience allows you to tailor both your email list signup offers and email content accordingly. Consider demographics like age, gender, location, as well as interests, pain points, and goals. The more specifically you can define your ideal subscriber, the better.
Provide Value to Subscribers
People will only sign up for your email list if they believe they will get value from your emails. Make it clear what types of content, offers, or resources you provide subscribers. This could include blog articles, special deals, product updates, or industry insights. Ensure subscribers will get exclusive value they can’t get elsewhere. Read up on creating content that converts for ideas.
Place Email Signup Forms Strategically
Place opt-in forms on high-traffic pages like your homepage, blog, and product pages. Use pop-ups or slide-ins to grab attention. Display forms above the fold so they are visible immediately. Make forms just a couple fields to reduce friction. Offering lead magnets and emphasizing privacy builds trust. Mobile optimization is key for maximizing signups.
Promote Your List on Social Media
Leverage your existing social media followers to build your email list. Post links to your lead magnets and highlight joining your list in your bios. Consider running a social media giveaway or contest for more exposure. Just make sure your channels drive traffic to a landing page with an opt-in form. Check out tips for Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Pinterest marketing.
Send Welcome and Onboarding Emails
Sending automated welcome and onboarding emails when someone joins your list helps engage and retain subscribers. Share links to lead magnet content, set expectations, and establish your tone and value. This helps subscribers better understand your brand and content while getting them accustomed to engaging.
Offer a Lead Magnet
Creating a lead magnet or freebie like an ebook, checklist, or video is one of the best ways to encourage email signups. You can gate your lead magnet behind a signup form, giving people something valuable in exchange for their email address. Tailor your lead magnet to your audience and promote it heavily. Check out this guide to landing pages for creating an effective landing page to host your lead magnet.
Add Email Signup Links in Your Content
Within blog posts, guides, and resources you create, periodically include links for people to join your email list to receive more of your content. You can mention your lead magnets or link to other related content. Just avoid being overly promotional.
Run Retargeting Ads
Use pixels and cookies to run retargeting ads on websites and social media platforms. This allows you to re-engage website visitors who have left by showing them ads with links back to your site and email signup forms. Retargeting helps capture interested audiences.
Leverage Email List Partnerships
Partner with other creators and businesses in your niche to help cross-promote your email lists through swaps, cross-promotions, and giveaways. This allows you to tap into an already engaged audience that is likely interested in your content as well.
Building an engaged email list does take continual effort but implementing these strategies can help you start growing your list today. The larger your list, the greater the reach for promoting your content, products, or services. Just focus on providing subscriber value, and your email marketing can become a cornerstone of your business success.
