Your email list isn’t going to grow without help, that’s the bottom line!
A few people might sign up here or there because they like what you have to say, but most need a bit of a push. You must incentivize to get sign-ups. It’s a way of adding value and motivating the sign-up. Here are some types of free offers you can use to create a high-quality list of people who are happy to see your emails in their inboxes.
Ebook
An ebook is seen as a high-value offer that also conveys authority for your brand. This content piece comes in around 2,000 words and is formatted in a visually appealing way. The typical delivery format is PDF, although you could also explore other ebook formats such as epub or a Kindle-compatible title.
Content Upgrade
Every blog post or article you create has the potential to grow your email list. Look through each post. See how you can offer a gated upgrade, such as a handy spreadsheet tool or a checklist based on the information already available. Not only is this an excellent way to provide a highly relevant offer, most of the work is already done for you.
Checklist
Is your audience busy? They may not have the time to read through an entire article or guide, but they can follow a checklist of easy-to-understand and actionable steps.
Microtool
Does a feature of your product or service lend itself well to a sample-size tool? For example, many companies use calculators to figure out costs for loans. If you can provide a useful free tool that relates to your primary line of business, it’s a great way to generate sign-ups and engagement.
Template
You probably have a lot of specialized knowledge that helps you do things quicker and more efficiently than everyone else. Would this knowledge work well as a free template for your audience? People are always appreciative of time-savers that give a lot of value.
Swipe File
Are you a creative company that draws a lot of inspiration from many sources? A swipe file refers to a collection of the most inspiring pieces you’ve come across during your research. If you write a blog offer a swipe file filled with post headlines. Are you a graphic designer? Offer a swipe file filled with your favorite fonts.
Printable
Give your readers something tangible in exchange for their email. A printable is a file that the new subscriber can download and print at home. This offer can include anything from a daily planner page to a custom calendar.
Don’t have time to create your free opt-in offer? Contact our team at www.digitalhill.com to get some support and have it done for you!
Author: Mike Gingerich, President of web firm Digital Hill, Co-Founder of TabSite .
Digital and Social Media Marketer, Speaker, and Business Consultant. Part geek, part marketer, total digital junkie! Seeking to add value, make the complex simple, and leave a positive impact.
Follow me on twitter: @mike_gingerich.
