5min
Module 1: The Foundation
Module 2: Building Your Brand and Website
Module 3: Creating Your Product or Service
Module 4: Marketing and Pre-Launch
Module 5: The Launch
11/15 Lessons
Content
While social media is perfect for discovery and building a community, an email list is for building relationships and making sales. An email list is a direct, reliable communication channel that you own. It's not subject to algorithm changes or platform bans, and it allows for a personal, one-on-one conversation with your most interested audience members.
1. Why Email is Your Most Valuable Asset
Think of your email list as your VIP section. The people who sign up are giving you explicit permission to contact them, which means they are highly interested in what you have to offer.
You Own It:
Unlike a social media profile that can be shut down or a follower count that can be changed by an algorithm update, your email list is a business asset that you completely control. You can download a copy of it at any time and move it to a different platform.
Direct Access:
Your message goes straight to your subscriber's inbox. There is no algorithm standing between you and your audience. When you send an email, you know your subscribers will receive it, which is something you can't guarantee with social media.
Higher Conversion:
Email marketing consistently has one of the highest returns on investment. A subscriber is far more likely to buy from you than a random social media follower because they have already expressed an interest in what you do by signing up.
2. How to Get Started: The Lead Magnet Strategy
No one is going to give you their email address for no reason. You need to offer something valuable in return. This is called a lead magnet. A lead magnet is a free, high-value resource that solves a small, specific problem for your ideal customer in exchange for their email address.
Create Your Resource:
Your lead magnet should be something your ideal customer would be excited to receive. For example, if you are a meal-prep coach, your lead magnet could be a "5-Day Meal Plan to Banish Cooking Stress." If you sell sustainable home goods, you could offer a "Guide to a Plastic-Free Kitchen."
The purpose of your lead magnet is not to sell; it's to provide value and get permission to follow up with your audience. The lead magnet should give your audience a taste of the transformation you can provide.
3. The Tools You Need
To build and manage your list, you need an email service provider (ESP). Your ESP allows you to collect emails, send mass emails, and automate your communication.
MailerLite:
This is a fantastic option for beginners because of its user-friendly interface and a free plan that includes a robust set of features, including landing pages and automation, for up to 1,000 subscribers. It’s perfect for getting started without any cost.
ConvertKit:
This is the top choice for creators, coaches, and course-based businesses. It's designed specifically for people who sell digital products and has powerful features for segmenting your audience and sending targeted emails. It also offers a free plan up to 1,000 subscribers.
Mailchimp:
A well-known platform with a solid free plan for up to 500 contacts. It's a great all-around option with easy-to-use email templates and simple automation.
*All of these platforms offer templates to create a simple sign-up form that you can embed on your website or share on social media.