Email marketing isn’t just something to say; it’s your direct line to customers who want to hear from you. And the best part? You don’t need a huge following or complicated tech skills to make it work. Let’s dive into a step-by-step guide on how to build an email list that sets you up for success.
Why Email Marketing Matters for Your Shopify Store
Social media is great, but algorithms? Not so much. Building an email list gives you control. You don’t have to worry about your posts getting buried or your account being shut down. When you own an email list, you have a direct way to reach your audience—anytime, anywhere.
Your ideal customer (you know, the boss mama or aspiring entrepreneur who shops smart but loves a good deal) checks her email regularly. And if you’re in her inbox with value, solutions, and offers, you’re already one step ahead.
Step 1: Offer Something They Can’t Resist
Let’s be honest: no one’s signing up for your list just because. You need to give them a reason—a juicy incentive that feels like a no-brainer. This is called a lead magnet.
Here are a few ideas your audience will love:
- Exclusive Discounts: “Sign up for 10% off your first order!”
- Free Shipping: “Join our VIP list and get free shipping on your next purchase.”
- A Free Resource: If your products are educational or lifestyle-based, consider a guide like “5 Ways to Style Your Home with Candles” or “Quick Self-Care Hacks for Busy Moms.”
- Early Access: “Be the first to shop our new collection—exclusively for email subscribers!”
Whatever you choose, make sure it speaks directly to your audience’s needs and desires.
Step 2: Make Signing Up Easy
Girl, no one’s filling out a long form just to get on your list. Keep it simple. Use a pop-up, slide-in banner, or inline form on your Shopify store that takes less than a second to fill out.
Here’s where to put those sign-up forms:
- Homepage Pop-Up: Greet visitors with your irresistible offer.
- Checkout Page: Add an opt-in box like, “Want 10% off your next order? Join our email list!”
- Product Pages: Include a subtle sign-up banner saying, “Love this? Get exclusive deals on similar products.”
Pro Tip: Make your call-to-action (CTA) bold and action-oriented, like “Sign Me Up!” or “Claim My Discount!” It’s all about energy, sis.
Step 3: Use a Double Opt-In Process
Here’s the thing: you want an email list full of people who actually want to hear from you. Using a double opt-in process (where subscribers confirm their email address) ensures your list is clean and engaged. Plus, it helps protect you from spam complaints and boosts your deliverability.
Most email marketing platforms like Klaviyo or Mailchimp make this step super easy to set up.
Step 4: Create Value-Packed Welcome Emails
The moment someone joins your list, they’re already curious about your brand. Don’t leave them hanging! Send a welcome email (or better yet, a welcome series) to make them feel at home.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what to include:
-
Email 1: Thank You + Your Offer
Example: “Welcome to the family! Here’s your 10% off code: WELCOME10.” -
Email 2: Your Brand Story
Share why you started your business. Show them the heart behind your hustle. Let them know you get them. -
Email 3: Product Recommendations
Highlight your best-sellers or products that align with their interests. Make it easy for them to shop.
Step 5: Keep Them Engaged
Building your email list is just the start—you’ve got to keep that relationship alive. Send regular emails that mix promotions with value.
Here’s what your audience will love:
- Exclusive Offers: Give your email list VIP treatment with early access to sales or limited-time discounts.
- Behind-the-Scenes Content: Share sneak peeks of new products or how you create your candles, courses, or planners.
- Helpful Tips: Provide quick tips related to your niche. If you’re selling self-care products, drop gems like “5-Minute Stress-Relief Rituals.”
Pro Tip: Don’t overwhelm them. Stick to a consistent schedule (like once a week or biweekly) and always deliver value.
Step 6: Grow Beyond Your Store
Your Shopify store isn’t the only place to capture emails. Use other channels to grow your list:
- Social Media: Add “Link in Bio” sign-ups on Instagram or use Stories to promote your offer.
- Pinterest Pins: Create pins with enticing captions like “Download Your Free Self-Care Checklist” or “Get 10% Off Our New Candle Collection.”
- Collaborations: Partner with other brands to do a giveaway or co-promote your email lists.
Step 7: Track and Optimize
Girl, what gets measured gets managed. Keep an eye on your email list growth and engagement:
- Open Rates: Are people opening your emails? If not, test your subject lines.
- Click-Through Rates: Are they clicking on your links? If not, improve your CTAs or email content.
- Unsubscribes: If you’re losing too many subscribers, check if your emails are aligned with their expectations.
Pro Tip: Use email marketing platforms like Klaviyo or Shopify Email to track these metrics and make data-driven decisions.
Your Email List Is Your Secret Weapon
Building an email list isn’t just about adding names to a database. It’s about creating a community of people who believe in your brand and are excited to support it. Whether you’re selling candles, self-care planners, or digital courses, your email list is the foundation for long-term growth.
So, take action today. Start small, stay consistent, and watch your Shopify store thrive. You’ve got this, sis. ✨
Now tell me, what’s your next big email marketing move? Drop it in the comments!