Whether you’re a freelancer, a small business owner, an author or a blogger, building an email list should be your top priority.
The usual list building advice you will find on the internet revolves around creating an irresistible lead magnet or opt-in offer, include multiple sign-up forms on your website, and promoting your list on social media.
However, some of the advice on building your email list often feels lacking and some advice is too advanced for those just starting out.
In this article, we’ll share our top 7 secret ways to grow your email list.
1. Create a Targeted Opt-In Offer
Instead of creating site-wide lead magnet, focus on creating a short, actionable opt-in offer that is directly related to the post your visitors are currently reading.
This method is also known as Content Upgrade and it works better than a standard lead magnet because it gives your readers a chance to either learn more about something they are already interested in or actually put the advice from your post into action.
Your content upgrade doesn’t have to be long or complicated – in fact, it can be as simple as PDF version of your article or a simple checklist of the key takeaways from your post.
2. Include Your Email Sign Up Link in Your Email Signature
If you’re like the most of us, you probably send dozens of emails on a daily basis. Each of those emails is an opportunity to get more subscribers and to build your email list.
No matter which email client you use, all of them have the capability of including your email signature. Consider placing a hyperlinked call to action that leads them directly to your email sign up form.
This method is quite effective if your sign up form is in one of your most popular posts or an optimized landing page created specifically for your email signature.
3. Take Advantage of In-Person Networking
Various networking events, business meetings, and fairs can be an excellent opportunity to grow your email list.
One way to do this is to include a QR code on your business cards or brochures which point to your email sign up form.
Many email service providers nowadays offer mobile apps which you can use to encourage people to sign up to your email list right then and there.
4. Place Your Opt-In Form in The Right Location
While it’s no secret that you should include your opt-in form more than once on your website, the location of the form plays an important role in the number of conversions and building your email list.
Nowadays, you’d be hard pressed to find a blog that doesn’t include a signup form in their sidebar and at the bottom of every post.
But if you want to maximize your chances of converting readers into email subscribers, consider adding an opt-in form in your website header, in the post itself, your about page, and your blog’s footer.
Naturally, you shouldn’t overwhelm your readers, but rather implement a few changes at a time and keep track of your list growth to see which forms are getting you the best results.
5. Create a Resource/Start Here Page
Consider creating a page on your website that lists your most popular posts and include your sign up form at the bottom inviting readers to subscribe for more of the similar posts.
Another approach is to create a page of all the tools you’re using with a short description of how a particular tool helps you. Then invite your readers to subscribe to your newsletter to get access to the list of all the tools and apps that make you a better blogger/business owner.
6. Make Use of Social Media
Social media can be a great way to promote your email list. But rather than just tweeting or sharing status updates about your newsletter, take your efforts a step further.
Consider signing up for Twitter Lead Generation cards which allow your followers to sign up for your email list with one click. Once your card is set up, send out a tweet with it and then pin it to the top of your profile.
Similarly, include a tab on your Facebook page which allows people to subscribe, or better yet include an email sign-up link in your call-to-action button.
7. Tell People Why They Should Subscribe
Consider creating a post or a page which tells them exactly how often and what they can expect and you can even give them a preview of one of your newsletters.
Don’t forget to include what your subscribers have said about your previous email newsletters. Often, hearing from others how good something is can be just the push they need.
Growing your email list may seem daunting but with a little effort and by putting these tips into practice, you’ll be well on your way to increase the number of your subscribers.
