How do I build an email list?
TL;DR
Offer a clear lead magnet (discount, guide, tool) in exchange for an email. Promote it everywhere: website, social, in-store, checkout. Most small businesses can add 100-500 emails per month with a good lead magnet and consistent promotion.
Detailed answer
- 1.Lead magnets: 10-15% discount, downloadable guide, free template, quiz.
- 2.Placement: site header, exit-intent popup, footer, social bio, business card.
- 3.In-store: tablet at checkout, receipt prompt.
- 4.Welcome series: 5 emails over 14 days to convert subscriber → customer.
- 5.Compliance: clear opt-in language and easy unsubscribe.
Common mistakes
- 1. Buying or scraping lists (kills deliverability and is illegal in many places).
- 2. Generic 'subscribe to our newsletter' with no value offer.
- 3. Not having a welcome sequence to convert new subscribers.
What to do instead
Make your lead magnet specific to your top customer's pain point. 'Get 10% off' is fine; 'The 5 yoga poses for back pain' converts 3-4x better for a yoga studio.
Convert in-person customers to email subscribers. Every receipt, table tent, or check-out flow should include the offer.
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