Building and growing an email list is essential for creators and online entrepreneurs who want to connect with their audience and grow their businesses. ConvertKit is an excellent tool to help you do just that. This guide will walk you through the steps to build and grow your email list using ConvertKit.
What is ConvertKit?
ConvertKit is an email marketing tool designed specifically for creators and online entrepreneurs. It makes it easy to create beautiful email campaigns, automate your marketing, and grow your audience. Whether you’re a blogger, YouTuber, or online business owner, ConvertKit has features that can help you succeed.
Why Use ConvertKit?
ConvertKit offers several benefits that make it a great choice for building and growing your email list:
- User-Friendly Interface: ConvertKit is easy to use, even if you’re not tech-savvy.
- Automation: You can set up automated email sequences to nurture your audience.
- Landing Pages and Forms: Create attractive landing pages and opt-in forms to capture email addresses.
- Segmenting and Tagging: Organize your subscribers with tags and segments to send targeted emails.
- Integrations: Connect ConvertKit with other tools you use, like WordPress, Shopify, and more.
Getting Started with ConvertKit
1. Sign Up for ConvertKit
The first step is to sign up for ConvertKit. You can start with their free plan, which allows you to manage up to 1,000 subscribers. Sign up for ConvertKit here (insert your affiliate link).
2. Set Up Your Account
Once you’ve signed up, set up your account by following these steps:
- Complete your profile information.
- Connect your domain or website.
- Integrate ConvertKit with other tools you use, such as WordPress or Shopify.
3. Create a Landing Page
A landing page is a standalone web page designed to capture email addresses. ConvertKit makes it easy to create beautiful landing pages without any coding skills. Follow these steps:
- Go to “Landing Pages & Forms” in the ConvertKit dashboard.
- Click “Create New” and select “Landing Page.”
- Choose a template that fits your brand.
- Customize the template with your content and images.
- Publish your landing page and share the link with your audience.
4. Design Opt-In Forms
Opt-in forms are essential for capturing email addresses on your website or blog. Here’s how to create them:
- Go to “Landing Pages & Forms” in the ConvertKit dashboard.
- Click “Create New” and select “Form.”
- Choose the type of form you want (Inline, Modal, Slide-in, or Sticky Bar).
- Customize the form to match your brand.
- Embed the form on your website or blog.
Growing Your Email List
Now that you’ve set up ConvertKit, it’s time to grow your email list. Here are some strategies to help you attract subscribers:
1. Offer a Lead Magnet
A lead magnet is a valuable resource you give away for free in exchange for someone’s email address. Examples include:
- Ebooks
- Checklists
- Guides
- Free courses
- Templates
Promote your lead magnet on your landing pages, opt-in forms, and social media channels. Check out this guide on creating lead magnets with ConvertKit (insert your affiliate link).
2. Promote Your Email List
Promote your email list on your website, blog, social media, and other online platforms. Here are some ideas:
- Website/BLOG: Add opt-in forms to your homepage, blog posts, and sidebar.
- Social Media: Share links to your landing pages and lead magnets.
- Guest Posts: Write guest posts for other blogs and include a link to your landing page or opt-in form.
3. Use Pop-Up Forms
Pop-up forms are a great way to capture attention and encourage sign-ups. ConvertKit allows you to create and customize pop-up forms easily. Here’s how:
- Go to “Landing Pages & Forms” in the ConvertKit dashboard.
- Click “Create New” and select “Form.”
- Choose “Modal” for a pop-up form.
- Customize the form and set the trigger (e.g., after a certain time on page or scrolling).
4. Run a Giveaway
Giveaways are a fun and effective way to grow your email list. Offer a prize related to your niche and require participants to sign up for your email list to enter. Promote the giveaway on your website, social media, and email list.
Nurturing Your Subscribers
Building an email list is just the first step. It’s important to nurture your subscribers and build a relationship with them. Here are some tips:
1. Send a Welcome Email
A welcome email is the first email your subscribers receive after signing up. It should introduce you, thank them for subscribing, and set expectations for future emails. Use ConvertKit’s automation features to set up a welcome email sequence.
2. Send Regular Emails
Stay in touch with your subscribers by sending regular emails. Share valuable content, updates, and promotions. Aim to send emails at least once a week.
3. Segment Your List
Segmenting your email list allows you to send targeted emails to specific groups of subscribers. For example, you can segment your list based on interests, purchase history, or engagement level. ConvertKit makes it easy to segment your list using tags and custom fields.
4. Monitor Your Analytics
Track the performance of your email campaigns using ConvertKit’s analytics. Pay attention to open rates, click-through rates, and conversion rates. Use this data to improve your email marketing strategy.
Building and growing an email list is crucial for creators and online entrepreneurs. ConvertKit is a powerful tool that can help you achieve your email marketing goals. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create a successful email marketing strategy that will help you connect with your audience and grow your business.
Ready to get started? Sign up for ConvertKit today (insert your affiliate link) and start building your email list!