So, you have decided to finally embrace the world of email marketing, but there is one problem: you do not have an email database. While this may seem like a marketer's worst nightmare, building a database from scratch is actually a chance to create a rich and engaged subscriber list from day one.
Follow these steps to build the most successful database possible.
10 Ways to Grow From Zero
1📝
Give people a way to sign up
Countless sites are missing an opt-in form. Add one at checkout and a clear pop-up too, because not everyone reaches the checkout.
Try: a discount code or gift to entice more opt-ins.
2📣
Leverage social media
You do not only collect emails on your website. Run a lead generation campaign that funnels emails into your database.
Best: competition ads. People share details for the chance to win.
3🤝
Encourage bring-a-friend
Referral campaigns are some of the strongest for new businesses. Ask existing customers to submit a friend's email to the list.
Nudge: 15% off instead of 10% makes them more likely to refer.
4🧪
Test out opt-in forms
Running multiple forms shows which creatives, language or discounts appeal most, saving you from lost time on forms that do not land.
5🚀
Push the limits
Your form does not need to follow the generic rules. Swap the "No thanks" button for something that makes people second-guess.
Example: change "No thanks" to "I don't want a discount."
6🎯
Landing-page-specific forms
The home page is not always the most visited. Forms built for specific landing pages improve conversion.
Think: a cookie brand swapping choc-chip for red velvet by page.
7🎚️
Let customers choose
People fear eternal spam. Ease that by letting them choose what they opt into: updates, promos or behind-the-scenes.
Rule: stay true to their selections to keep them happy long term.
8✍️
Add it to your email signature
If you spend a lot of time emailing clients, add an opt-in link to your signature so they can choose to learn more about your business.
9🧲
Use a lead magnet
Great for service-based businesses. Offer a free downloadable in exchange for a customer's email to grow your list exponentially.
10🗣️
Collect emails out and about
Chatting with a customer, at a trade show, or meeting a new prospect, grab their email to fill your database with engaged contacts.
Consent: always ask permission first. It is a requirement of email providers.
Building a database from scratch is not a nightmare. It is your chance to grow an engaged list from day one.
