Why You Need An Email List + 3 Tips On How To Get Started

Why You Need An Email List + 3 Tips On How To Get Started

Why do you need an email list? Aside from having the highest conversion rate of ALL marketing platforms, and generating $38 for every $1 spent, your email list is owned by YOU. Unfortunately, you don’t “own” your Instagram or Facebook accounts, which means they can be erased at any time (scary, I know). So, how would you connect with the people who’ve been following you for months, perhaps years, if social media went away?

Drum roll please… an email list! 

“But what if I’m already years into my business?”

It’s never too late to start.

“I’m worried about the tech behind the automations.”

If you choose the right software, it’s easy.

“No one wants to sign up for ANOTHER list.”

If you put immense value in your emails and give your audience a reason to click “open”, you will reap the benefits of having direct contact with your customers.

“I don’t have time to manage ANOTHER platform. I already have enough to do.”

Friend, if there’s one platform I encourage you to pour your heart and soul into, it’s email.

Now that we’ve covered the most common pushbacks I get for starting an email list, I’m going to share my best tips to help you succeed at building your own from day one!

Tip #1: Choose the right platform to manage your subscribers.

If you’re a beginner at building an email list, choosing the right platform is crucial to your success (and sanity!). The good news is that I’ve found a few excellent platforms that range from FREE to around $40/month and are super simple to set up. You can also do “trial runs” before you actually set your list to go live, that way you can try out the campaign and automation features. MailChimp and Flodesk are my two top choices for beginners. 

Tip #2: Start with 1 automation, and build from there.

 Don’t worry about creating 23543 automations for every avenue of your business right now. Start with one. A general list is a good starting point, but keep it mind that it does need to provide value. No one wants to sign up for a “newsletter” anymore. They want value, and perhaps even a little entertainment, which is why I recommend providing an incentive for them to sign up. Examples of great incentives include a 5-Day Challenge, or a freebie downloadable (more on this later). 

Tip #3: Be consistent on how often you connect.

Be honest with yourself upfront. How often can you send out an email that provides valuable content? Twice a week? Once a week? Twice a month? Whatever that time frame is, put it on your calendar and commit to it. Once a week is pretty standard and keeps a consistent “touchpoint” with your audience. I also recommend getting a month ahead on your emails so you’re never rushing to send something out. Create a content calendar for this, it helps!