Let’s talk email lists. You’ve heard it before, right? “Build your list!” But here’s the thing—it’s not just about having a list. It’s about creating a community of perfect-fit clients who trust you, engage with your content, and are excited to hear from you.
If you’ve ever wondered why everyone keeps telling you to build an email list but nobody explains what to do with it, this blog is your answer. I’m breaking down the mysteries of email marketing 101, sharing why it’s the ultimate secret weapon for your business, and giving you actionable email marketing tips and ideas to grow your list and your online business.
So, let’s dive into three key reasons why your email list is your most valuable asset and four tips to start building that list today.
Why You Need to Build Your Email List
Reason #1: It’s an Asset You Own
Here’s the truth: when it comes to social media, you’re playing in someone else’s sandbox. Algorithms change, accounts get suspended, and policies shift without warning. Your email list, however, is yours to control. It’s a business asset that no one can take away from you, making it a foundational tool to grow your online business.
Reason #2: Email is Personal
Social media is crowded and noisy. Email, on the other hand, is a direct line to your audience. When someone gives you their email address, they’re inviting you into their inbox—a space they check daily (sometimes obsessively!). It’s the perfect opportunity to form meaningful connections that social platforms just can’t replicate.
Reason #3: Email Converts Better Than Social Media
Let’s talk numbers:
- 92% of online adults use email.
- 99% of email users check their email daily, some up to 20 times a day.
- 58% of people check email before social media or the news.
And here’s the kicker: email marketing has higher conversion rates compared to social media. Why? Because your message lands right in front of your audience without being buried under cat videos and trending memes. That’s the kind of attention you want.
How to Grow Your Email List: Email Marketing 101
Now that you know why you need to build your email list, let’s dive into the “how.” Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking for fresh email marketing ideas, these tips will help you grow your online business through email.
Tip #1: Know Your Perfect-Fit Client
Before you create a lead magnet or start sending emails, you need clarity on who you’re speaking to. Ask yourself:
- Who is my ideal client?
- What problem are they trying to solve?
- How can I position myself as the solution?
When you understand your audience’s needs, desires, and pain points, you can craft emails that feel personal and impactful. Knowing your audience is the first step to mastering email marketing for beginners.
Tip #2: Offer Something Irresistible for Free
People don’t just hand over their email addresses for fun; they want something valuable in return. This is where your lead magnet comes in—a freebie that solves a specific problem or saves time, money, or energy for your audience. Examples include:
- A checklist or cheat sheet
- A template or swipe file
- A mini-course or workbook
The key is to make it irresistible. Your perfect-fit client should feel like they’re getting a gift they can’t refuse. (Want help creating a lead magnet? Grab my FREE Ultimate Lead Magnet Formula here.)
Tip #3: Promote Like a Pro
Your lead magnet isn’t going to grow your email list if no one knows about it. Promotion is essential! Here are some email marketing tips to get the word out:
- Social Media: Share your freebie on your personal and business pages, in groups (where allowed), and even in your Instagram bio.
- Website: Make your signup form visible. Add it to your homepage, blog posts, and even as a pop-up.
- Collaborations: Share your lead magnet during guest workshops, podcast appearances, or joint ventures.
Remember, visibility is everything. The more places your lead magnet appears, the faster you’ll grow your email list.
Tip #4: Engage Regularly
Here’s where many people drop the ball—they build a list and then ghost their subscribers. Big mistake! Consistent engagement is key to building trust and maintaining interest.
Here are some email marketing ideas for engaging your list:
- Share behind-the-scenes updates or personal stories.
- Provide actionable tips or resources related to their pain points.
- Highlight success stories from other clients to inspire and build credibility.
And here’s a pro tip: Write like you’re talking to a friend over coffee. Authenticity is what makes your emails feel genuine and relatable. Ask your subscribers questions, encourage them to reply, and create a two-way conversation.
Bonus Tip: Simplify with the Right Tools
As your list grows, keeping it organized can feel overwhelming. That’s why I recommend ConvertKit. It’s the all-in-one platform for managing your email list, creating landing pages, and segmenting your audience so the right messages reach the right people.
No, this isn’t sponsored—I just really love how ConvertKit simplifies email marketing for beginners. Trust me, an organized list is a game-changer.
Email Marketing is About Relationships, Not Numbers
Your email list isn’t just a collection of names; it’s a community of people who believe in your message and value what you offer. By focusing on building relationships, providing value, and staying consistent, you’ll grow your email list in a way that supports your business goals.
Not sure where to start? Ask yourself these questions:
- Do I have an email marketing strategy in place?
- Am I regularly communicating with my subscribers?
- Is my list helping me grow my online business?
If you’re feeling gaps in your current strategy, it might be time to dive deeper.
Download my FREE Ultimate Lead Magnet Formula here and start building an email list that works for you.
Email marketing 101 doesn’t have to be complicated. With these tips, you’ll have a list full of engaged subscribers who are excited to hear from you. And that? That’s how you grow your online business.
