Are you getting the right people to join your email list?

Is your email list growing the way you want it to?

If your answer to either of those questions is “no, ” you need to look at the foundation you’ve built to ensure it’s designed and created to get the right people to raise their hands and say “yes” to giving you their precious email addresses.

Answering questions from my community is something I love to do, and recently, I did just that, with the result being a series of Ask Me Anything (about online marketing) videos.

The first question I received was about list building, a perennial topic for business owners and marketers.

Below is the video and below the video is an article crafted from the transcript (and yes, I got help from ChatGPT4o to organize the information so it is easier to read than the transcript).

Imagine entering a room filled with potential customers, each eagerly awaiting a compelling reason to stay connected with you. Your email list is that room; the key to filling it lies in your approach to list building.

I recently offered a program called The List Building Lab, which included 12 lessons on my top strategies for effective list-building. The video above and the article below expand on those insights.

I’ll start by emphasizing the importance of a solid foundation. Without it, your list-building efforts might falter. The cornerstone of this foundation is a dedicated, stand-alone page for your opt-in form—#3 on the list below.

Why am I addressing the third essential step?

I’m making an assumption you already 1) know your target audience and 2) you’ve created a valuable reason why (maybe a lead magnet) someone would want to subscribe to your list.

That makes the third step: setting up a dedicated opt-in page. If you haven’t done steps one and two, you must back up and start there.

This page should exist solely to encourage visitors to join your list, whether offering a newsletter, a lead magnet, or another enticing freebie. The dedicated page allows for focused promotion and makes it simple for potential subscribers to opt in without distractions.

Why is a stand-alone opt-in page so crucial?

Many businesses scatter their opt-in forms across various parts of their website – the homepage hero image, the footer, or the sidebar. While these locations are beneficial, they don’t replace the power of a single, clear opt-in page.

This page is a direct, uncomplicated path for your audience to follow, enhancing your promotional efforts. Imagine being a guest on a podcast or speaking at a summit; having a straightforward URL to share can significantly boost your sign-ups.

Creating this dedicated page isn’t just about the opt-in form itself; it’s about conveying the value and benefits to the subscriber.

Here are some key elements to include on your stand-alone opt-in page:

1. Clear Value Proposition: Explain exactly what the subscriber will receive and why it’s beneficial. Be specific about the value they’ll gain.
2. Compelling Headline: Craft a headline that grabs attention and clearly states the offer.
3. Engaging Copy: Use persuasive language to describe the benefits of subscribing. Focus on what’s in it for them.
4. Simple Form: To reduce friction, keep the form fields to a minimum. Ask only for essential information, typically a name and email address.
5. Strong Call to Action: Make your call to action (CTA) stand out. Use action-oriented language that encourages immediate sign-up.
6. Visual Appeal: Ensure the page is visually appealing with a clean design, relevant images, and a layout that guides the eye toward the CTA.

Beyond the stand-alone page, promoting your opt-in page effectively is crucial.

Here are some additional strategies:

1. Social Media Promotion: Regularly share the link to your opt-in page across your social media channels. Use eye-catching visuals and persuasive copy to draw attention.
2. Guest Appearances: When participating in podcasts, webinars, or summits, mention your opt-in page and provide the link. This can attract a new audience who already values your expertise.
3. Email Signatures: Include a link to your opt-in page in your email signature. Every email you send is an opportunity to attract new subscribers.
4. Partnerships and Collaborations: Partner with other businesses or influencers in your niche to promote your opt-in page. Cross-promotion can introduce your offer to a wider audience.

To sum up, my list-building approach involves creating a strong, focused foundation and promoting it effectively. Your dedicated opt-in page is a powerful tool in your marketing toolbox, simplifying the subscription process and enhancing your promotional efforts.

Every email list starts with one subscriber. Treat each one as the individual they are, and your list will grow with integrity.

Author Unknown

Create that stand-alone page, communicate your value, and confidently promote it. By doing so, you’ll be well on your way to building a robust, engaged email list that can drive your business forward.

Ready to start? Craft your opt-in page today and watch your email list grow!

Here’s a comprehensive checklist ready to help you succeed with your list building.

Yes, I want the checklist!

Blog header photo by Philipp Katzenberger on Unsplash

The post How to Build a Strong Foundation for Your Email List appeared first on Adventures in Visibility.

However, building and maintaining this list can often seem like a daunting task. The key to overcoming this challenge lies not only in the methods of building a list but also in understanding the profound impact it can have on your business.

Why Build an Email List?

An email list is more than just a collection of names and addresses. It’s a direct line to your most interested customers and prospects.

Unlike social media platforms, where algorithms control your content’s visibility, emails land directly in your audience’s inbox.

This makes it a dependable and personal way to communicate with your audience, share valuable content, and build lasting relationships.

“If Social Media is the cocktail party, then email marketing is the ‘meet up for coffee’. The original 1 to 1 channel.”

-Erik Harbison

The Art of Connection

List building isn’t just about increasing numbers; it’s about fostering a community. Your email list should be a group of people who are genuinely interested in what you offer, who find value in your messages, and who look forward to your updates.

The aim is to create an environment where subscribers feel seen, heard, and valued.

Effective Strategies for List Building

1. Lead Magnets: Offer something irresistible in exchange for an email address. This could be an eBook, a webinar, or even a discount code – something that provides immediate value and a quick result for the receiver.
2. Optimize Your Website: Place sign-up forms in high-traffic areas. The top of your homepage or at the end of blog posts are good spots. Remember, the key is to make it easy and tempting for visitors to subscribe.
3. Consistent, Quality Content: Whether blog posts, newsletters, or updates, the content should be relevant, engaging, and valuable to your audience. This builds trust and keeps your audience engaged.
4. Personalization and Segmentation: Tailor your emails to meet the unique interests and needs of different segments of your audience. This makes your communication more relevant and effective.
5. Engage and Interact: Invite feedback, conduct surveys, and encourage replies. Interaction enhances the sense of community and belonging among your subscribers.

“A small list that wants exactly what you’re offering is better than a bigger list that isn’t committed.”

– Ramsay Leimenstoll

The Power of a Well-Built List

A well-cultivated email list can transform the way you do business. It allows for personalized communication, builds a sense of community, and enhances customer loyalty.

More importantly, it turns your email list into a group of engaged followers who are more likely to respond to your calls to action, be it a product purchase, service enrollment, or participation in a program you’re offering.

List building is an ongoing journey. It’s about consistently delivering value, building trust, and creating a community.

By focusing on these elements, you’ll not only grow your list but also cultivate a group of individuals who are genuinely interested in your business and what you have to offer.

Get your free copy of the AI Success Guide

Explore the power of AI for your brand with the “Underground ChatGPT Prompting Secrets” guide. This complimentary resource guides you through using AI for thought leadership, creating AI-driven webinars, storytelling, deep audience insights, and content marketing mastery. It also offers specific prompts for efficient content generation and enhanced social media strategies for 2024.

Download your copy of the guide here.

The post Boost Your Business With Smart Email List Building Techniques appeared first on Adventures in Visibility.

👉 If you want more engagement with your email subscribers, send short, simple surveys every once in a while.

Ask readers to REPLY to you with their answer to one question.

This creates more engagement and helps you get to know what your readers like, want, and feel about what you’re offering. Then you can give them more of what they want!⁠

You may have responded to the occasional one-question surveys I’ve sent out. Recently I sent an email asking if readers used iOS or Android. I discovered my audience is split just about down the middle.

I also discovered most of the people who responded read my emails on their desktop computer vs. mobile.  That’s good to know because it helps me know how to best format the content.

Why is reader engagement important?

As you can see from the slide above (from a short presentation I did for clients about email trends), interactivity = engagement. When a reader interacts with your email by replying or clicking a link for a survey, it signals to your email service provider they want to get your messages. That improves your deliverability.

So, what should you ask your readers? If it’s the very first email they’re receiving from you when they subscribe to get a freebie or sign up to get your blog posts or join a webinar, etc., here are some ideas:

Ask them “What is your number 1 problem with regards to [topic]”?

(A) You get them to reply to your email (the main objective)

(B) You get to know your audience better and discover their pain points → use this to create offers that solve these problems

(C) You’re building a relationship by asking them questions → shows you care about them

Or:

If you find the tips in the email useful to help you to [get the desired result] reply back this email by saying:

Give me more!!

And I’ll show you even more cool tips!

Or:

you can simply ask them to reply to your email and let you know if they’re able to access the lead magnet you promised.

Something like:

Can you let me know if the access link is working for you? A simple “got the guide” or “problem accessing” would do. Of course, if there’s any problem, I’ll make sure to fix it for you.

And always keep in mind, when you engage your subscribers by asking for a direct reply, it helps keep your list out of the spam traps.⁠ That’s a big deal.

Finally, remember to ask questions that are relevant to your reader AND how you can serve them better.  And don’t forget to ask the question to followers in your online communities, too! The more intel you have about your community, the better you can connect with and serve them.

𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙨𝙞𝙢𝙥𝙡𝙚 𝙦𝙪𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙨𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙤𝙙𝙖𝙮?⁠

In the comments below, post the question you’re considering asking your audience. I’m happy to offer feedback if you’d like some. 😎

Recommended Reading

This Email Marketing  Tip is  Essential for Getting More Visibility

Email Copywriting Checklist (free download)

The post Engage Email Subscribers with This Simple Tip appeared first on Adventures in Visibility.

When is the last time you updated or created a new free lead generation offer (gift) for your website visitors? If you’re not getting many sign ups on your current offer, it could mean that it’s time for an upgrade. 

First, to be clear about what a “lead” is, here’s a definition from HubSpot:

A lead is a person who has indicated interest in your company’s product or service in some way, shape, or form.

And lead generation:

Lead generation is the process of attracting and converting strangers and prospects into those leads…

It had been a few years since I had created a new lead gen offer and it was stale.  I had put off developing something new because it takes time and energy. You need to know what your ideal client wants, create it and then deliver it. I can be lazy sometimes, but I finally took action. 

Creating a New Lead Generation Offer

In a nutshell, below is what I did and what you can do too, to build your list – a community of people who want to get to know you better.

Capitalizing on my popular Online Visibility Challenge program, I crafted a free 7-day Visibility Challenge with the goal to give people a taste of what they could expect and learn during the paid 30-day Challenges. The on-demand email drip campaign launched recently and I’m pleased with the results to date. The real proof of success will be when I begin promoting my next paid Challenge!

1. Knowing that repurposing content is a big issue and challenge for people, I wrote a blog post about 13 ways to repurpose content. I included a content upgrade – a checklist – that required opting in to get.

2. Next, I did a short 4 question poll about repurposing content – where do people repurpose, challenges, what stops them, etc.

3. Then, I took the results and wrote two more blog posts addressing the top two challenges: not enough time and fear of getting duplicate content penalties.

4. From there I created 7-day Visibility Challenge, delivered via email, on demand, that guides people through five different ways to repurpose their content.

5. Even though it can be time-consuming to manage and moderate, I decided to set up a private Facebook group for the Challenge participants.

Currently, groups are one of the best ways of engaging with your peeps on Facebook since most never see the content you post on your business page. My goal and desire is to make sure that everyone who goes through the 7-Day Challenge gets the support to complete it and create a new habit for leveraging their content. Plus, I love getting to know everyone who is taking action and seeing results. It makes my heart sing!  🙂 

Note: the opt-in and thank you pages were created with LeadPages and my email management system is Infusionsoft. 

Once everything is set up – content reviewed and edited, the delivery system tested – then, it’s time to launch the new freebie (lead gen gift) to the world.

Initial Promotion Tactics

1. For those who are on my email list, I invited them to get the new content. It’s not just for new people. The first surprise was how many people reengaged with me. Clients and students I hadn’t heard from in awhile joined both the Challenge and the Facebook group. They’re also sharing it with their own followers. The Facebook group is working really well for getting back into conversations with people I had not connected with in awhile.

2. I shared the Challenge all over my social networks and new people on are signing up. At the moment, it’s about 30% new subscribers vs. the rest are people who’ve been on my list for years.

3. The content in the free Challenge has invitations throughout to sign up to get my blog posts (that list is growing too), join my live video show, and get on the Early Bird list for the paid challenges. As people get to know me, they are more willing to opt-in to get more information from me. That’s a good sign.

4. So far 27% of those who signed up have jumped into the FB group where they are encouraged to post links to the content they’re repurposing as part of the Challenge. I’m contemplating ways to get a higher join rate because a lot of magic happens in the group. In particular, I and other participants are inclined to share each others’ posts which also helps to boost visibility!

Now you know how to kick-start the optins with your current email list.

Long Term Promotion Tactics

Once you create and launch your lead generation gift, you’ve got to promote it. Don’t fall into the “set it and forget it” mentality. 

Not only do you have to announce it to the world, you have to keep reminding followers in your social networks why and how they can benefit from getting your gift. To prepare for ongoing promotion, implement the steps below.

First, create images for each social network you use: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and your blog. Canva is my graphic tool of choice so I can use their templates and easily resize images for each social network.

• Facebook: new cover image for your page
• Facebook: If you create a tab for your opt-in, then you’ll need an image for that as well
• Facebook: for ads [remember you cannot have more than 20% text on images for ads – test your images here]
• Facebook: for posts you may want to boost to your followers
• Twitter: new cover image
• Twitter: for tweets
• Pinterest: for tips and promo image
• Instagram: for tips and a promo image
• Blog: for your sidebar
• Blog: to add to the footer of your blog posts
• Google+: for posts you can use the image you create for tweets
• Google+: new cover image
• LinkedIn: for status updates you can use the tweet image

Once you’ve created the images you want to use in your promotions, then move on to your social profiles:

1. Update the About section on your Facebook Page, Twitter Profile and other profiles to include the URL to your new gift
2. Post an image on Twitter and pin the tweet to your profile (more visibility for the tweet!)
3. Queue a series of tweets to publish at various intervals for a week or so. Make sure you hit the time zones of your followers.
4. Post an image with a link on the sidebar of your blogsite (you can see my example in the sidebar on the right)
5. If you use a popup on your site, update it for your new gift. I’m experimenting with an exit popup (opens when someone leaves my site). It’s too soon for me to know how well this works. You’ll see it when you leave this blog post!
6. On Instagram, post your promo image and update the URL in your profile so it takes curious viewers straight to your optin page
7. Follow up on Instagram with tip images from your gift and a call to action to click the link in your bio

 

Your future is bright when your ideal client can find you. Join the free 7-Day Visibility Challenge to learn how to build your audience so you can build your business. Tap link in bio to get details and join over 150 biz owners who are taking the Challenge now! #VisibilityChallenge #smallbiz

A photo posted by 👉 Biz & Travel w/ Denise (@denisewakeman) on Mar 14, 2016 at 3:47pm PDT

You probably get the point I’m making. Wherever you’re active on social media, share that you have a new free gift. Once and done is not enough. Repeat with new images and new tips for several weeks to ensure your followers see your offer.

Finally, remember to send follow-up emails with an invitation to those on your list who did not open the initial email. That will usually increase your optins.

What’s Next?

Just like your products and services, there are hundreds of ways to promote your free lead generation gift. What tactics have worked for you to create and promote a new lead gen offer? Post in the comments below! [And see that image below this paragraph? That’s added to the footer of all my blog posts!] 

The post How To Promote Your New Lead Generation Offer appeared first on Adventures in Visibility.

It’s not hype to declare that you can take 30 days off from your business and still make money. That’s precisely how Maritza Parra, known as the List Building Queen, has designed, built and managed her business for years. She’s built email lists around her love for horses, natural bath and beauty products, her self-empowerment teachings that got her interviewed by Oprah and now also for her high-end camping gear business.

Focusing on 4 key facets of your business can get you there, too. And, that’s what Maritza and I explore on this episode of Adventures in Visibility.

On the show Maritza and I  discuss:

• Knowing what your business is really all about
• What you need to stay focused on over the long haul and why
• An example of how to use a give-away to create buzz, build your list and make money
• The 4 specific keys you need to have a successful business
• Maritza’s most memorable adventure

This is a replay of the live broadcast with Denise Wakeman and Maritza Parra. {click here if you prefer to watch on YouTube}

The Big Take Away

Several times during the conversation, Maritza makes the point that it’s not as easy to build a list today as it was a few years ago. There’s a lot of noise and many competing offers being made to your audience. You need to get creative. Maritza has found success by doing a strategic give-away that leads to a product her audience wants. Tools to check out for your give-away are: UpViral and KingSumo.

Recommended Reading

Powerful Polls – How to Learn More About Your Audience

The Love Manifesto: 4 Beautiful Ways to Use Love to Grow Your Business…

69 List Building Tips from the Experts

Download the Audio 

For your convenience, the mp3 is posted below, from the live show with Maritza:
 [smart_track_player url=”https://soundcloud.com/denise-wakeman/maritza-parra” title=”How to Build Your List with Purpose for Profit” artist=”Denise Wakeman” social=”true” social_twitter=”true” social_facebook=”true” social_gplus=”true” social_linkedin=”true” social_pinterest=”true” social_email=”true” ]

About the Guest

Maritza Parra is passionate about helping business owners grow their profitable email subscriber lists to support their online business. However, list building has changed. It’s not as easy to build a list of qualified prospects. For this reason, Maritza also helps people SELL and SERVE while they are building their list to support a long-term profitable business they love.

She successfully turned her passion for Iberian horses into a lucrative convention event business, a tourist equine experience and into profitable information products, supported by a list of email subscribers she serves. She’s built email lists around her love for horses, natural bath & beauty products, her self-empowerment teachings that got her interviewed by Oprah and now also for her high-end camping gear business.

Join Me for Future Adventures in Visibility

•  Watch previous Adventures
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  (if you enjoyed this interview, please rate and review it on iTunes!)

Do you have a question about how to create a more visible presence on the Web? Click here to record your question and I’ll include it along with my answer in an upcoming show!  

The post How to Build Your List with Purpose for Profit – Adventures in Visibility with Maritza Parra appeared first on Adventures in Visibility.