Why an Awesome Opt-in Matters
I’ve been told by many social media peers that your money is in your email list. These are people who have intentionally signed up to get information from you for a myriad of reasons. No matter the reason, they clicked the sign-up button asking for more.
I believe a business’ email list is extremely valuable. Through an email list you can send out exclusive offers, special announcements and first picks at items. These are typically your hard-core fans – people who will forward your emails and tell their friends about it. If you are just starting out or you’ve not put too much into building your list, the best way to start is to have an awesome opt-in.
You might be asking “just what is an opt-in?”. An opt-in is something you give for free in return for an email address. Some examples of opt-ins are…
1. White Papers
In general, white papers are authoritative reports or guides that help readers understand an issue, solve a problem, or make a decision. All industries have white papers. These are really popular with those seeking information, whether it’s how to increase their followers on Twitter or how to maximize Pinterest. People will give you their email address in return for something to help solve what they are looking for.
2. Free eBook Chapters
If you have or are working on an eBook, offer a free chapter of your book in return for an email address. This also gives the person the chance to preview the book, hopefully leading them to purchase it.
Example:
Maximize Social Business
3. Contest Entry
This is a popular option to get email addresses. Many businesses will run sweepstakes that when you give them your email, you are immediately entered to win. Prizes always vary but it’s a great way to collect email addresses.
4. Access to Something Exclusive
This could really be anything. It could be an eBook, a free 30 minute consultation or entrance to a webinar or event. People love to feel like they are important and if you offer something to make them feel that way, most will gladly give you their email address.
Example:
Content Marketing Institute
Why should you have an opt-in? A lot of businesses do not offer these and just ask for people to sign-up if they want to receive posts/articles/news in their inboxes. There is nothing wrong with that. I have found from experience that a business will get more sign-ups when there is something of value given in return. Value is why your opt-in needs to be awesome. If the potential subscriber doesn’t feel like what they are getting in return is valuable they won’t opt-in.
Your opt-in needs to be awesome because…
1. You want them to feel like they are getting something exclusive.
Exclusivity is HUGE. This makes them feel important and that they are getting something that general consensus doesn’t have.
2. This is what will motivate them to give you their email address.
If you are like me, you are bombarded everywhere to give your email address – when you check out at the store, when you sign up for an event, at school, church, etc. I do not give my personal email out to just anyone. I want to get something in return (see #1). I need to motivated and showing me I will get something awesome in return will do the trick.
3. It gives you that important lead.
In business, it’s all about getting leads. Whether it’s a lead for a new client, a lead for something needing a prom dress – business is driven by leads. Getting that email address is getting that lead.
How about you? Do you have an awesome opt-in? If so, share with me in the comments your link so I can check it out!
If not, you’re still awesome! Share with me why you chose not to have an opt-in! I love to hear both sides!
