Step 1: Choose a Platform (I Use Mailchimp)

There are a lot of email service providers out there (Flodesk, ConvertKit, ActiveCampaign), but if you’re just getting started, I recommend Mailchimp. It’s user-friendly, free for up to 500 contacts, it is easy to design to your brand and integrates with most websites.

Here’s what to do once you sign up:

• Create your first audience. This is your email list, give it a name and set up default settings.

   

• Customize your welcome email. This is the first email your subscribers receive. Keep it warm, friendly, and let them know what to expect. If you have a lead magnet this is also where you would link that.

   

• Connect it to your website. Use an embedded signup form or a popup to start collecting emails automatically.

   

Step 2: Add a Signup Form to Your Website

Your website should have at least one (ideally several) places for someone to join your list. Think:

• Footer (so it appears on every page)
• Blog sidebar
• “About” or “Work With Me” pages
• A Pop-Up 
• Contact page

   

Make sure the offer is clear. People won’t hand over their email unless there’s something in it for them. This form is the spot where emails land on your list. 

Try:

• “Subscribe for exclusive branding tips and business strategy.”

   

• “Sign up to get on my list to receive all my goodness straight to your inbox!”

   

Make sure they know they will be receiving your emails. The goal is to align your signup form with your audience’s goals, not just yours.

Step 3: Use a Lead Magnet to Entice Signups

This is where the real magic happens. A lead magnet is a free resource that solves a problem for your ideal client. In exchange, they give you their email.

Popular ideas include:

• A downloadable PDF guide (think “How to Find Your Target Audience”)

   

• A short, helpful video

   

• A mini email course

   

• A discount code

   

• Audio to take on the go (think your podcast)

   

Whatever you choose, make sure it’s something that adds value to your audience’s life. You want to solve a small problem for them that also aligns with your offer. 

Step 4: Ask Friends and Family (Really)

This one often gets overlooked because it can feel a little… awkward. But remember, people who already know and love you often want to support you. They just need a little prompt.

You can say:

“Hey! I just started an email list where I’m sharing free tips for business owners. Would you be open to subscribing or passing it along to someone who might find it helpful?”

You don’t need hundreds of subscribers overnight. Small steps make a difference.

Step 5: Send Value-Driven, Engaging Emails

The final (and most important) piece is what you actually send.

Here are a few guidelines:

• Start simple. A short bi-weekly tip, behind-the-scenes update, or client story is a great place to begin.

   

• Be consistent. Whether it’s once a week or once a month, consistency builds trust.

   

• Speak like a human. Write the way you’d speak to a friend or client, don’t put on a facade, just be you that’s where the magic happens.
• Consider what you can add. If you have an article or free resource on your site, this is a great spot to market that resource.

   

Your email list doesn’t have to be perfect or massive to make an impact. What matters is that you start. Set up the basics, create a simple opt-in, and get comfortable showing up in your subscribers’ inboxes with intention and value. You’ll be amazed how quickly your audience and your confidence grows. And if you aren’t in my subscribers, I’d recommend opting in. Our newsletter is the BEST!