How I Built an Email List of 10,000 subscribers from Scratch (And You Can Too)

Last updated on February 21st, 2025 at

When I first started building my email list, I was completely lost. I faced the same struggles many beginners do: choosing the right tools, creating content that would attract subscribers, and growing my list without blowing my budget on ads. Sound familiar? I was stuck, unsure how to take the next step. But then, I figured it out. I applied a combination of proven strategies and personal trial and error, and within months, I grew my list to 10,000 engaged subscribers.

Now, I’m here to share how you can do the same. Building an email list is one of the most effective ways to connect with your audience and grow your business. Did you know email marketing generates $42 for every $1 spent? Imagine what a solid email list could do for your business, and remember that Over 4 billion people use email worldwide. In this post, I’ll show you exactly how to build your email list from scratch—using the methods that worked for me. Unlike other posts out there, the strategies I’ll share are based on my own personal experience, so you’ll be getting proven, actionable advice.

Here’s what you can expect: step-by-step instructions, insights into the tools and techniques I used, and tips for avoiding the common mistakes I made along the way. Ready to start growing your email list? Let’s dive in.

Why Building an Email List is Crucial

What if you could turn a small email list into a six-figure business? That’s exactly what Pat Flynn, the creator of Smart Passive Income, did—and his strategy was surprisingly simple.

He started by offering something his audience couldn’t resist: a free LEED exam guide. This small gesture built trust and got people on his email list. But the real magic happened later.

Pat used his emails to share stories, insider tips, and previews of his upcoming courses. By the time he launched products like Smart From Scratch, his audience was not just interested—they were excited to buy and now he is continously make six figure income monthly.

The best part? Pat’s strategy didn’t rely on a massive list, just an engaged one. Curious how he did it? Keep reading to discover how you can use the same tactics to grow your email list and business. Also remember that

email marketing gives you ownership over your audience, unlike social media platforms that are prone to algorithm changes or account bans. Remember the Facebook algorithm update that slashed organic reach? With email, you don’t have to worry about that.

How to build an email list – An Step by Step process

Laying the Foundation: How to Set Yourself Up for List-Building Success

Building an email list isn’t just about collecting names and email addresses—it’s about creating a connection. To make your list truly impactful, you need to start with the right groundwork. Let’s break it down in a way that makes your future subscribers say, “This is exactly what I needed!”

1. Define Your Audience: Who Are You Talking To?

Before you write a single email, picture your ideal subscriber. Ask yourself:

• What keeps them up at night?
• What solutions are they desperately searching for?
• What could make their lives easier or better?

Imagine this: If your subscriber opened your email at 2 AM, would it feel like the answer to their worries? For example, if your audience is small business owners, they might be stressing about finding new customers or struggling to juggle endless tasks.

The better you know your audience, the more they’ll feel like your emails are written just for them. Write down a short description of your dream subscriber—what they want, what they fear, and how you can help. Keep this in mind with everything you create.

2. Set Clear Goals: Why Are You Building This List?

Here’s a secret: Building a list without a goal is like driving without a destination. You need to know why you’re doing this.

• Are you trying to sell a product or course?
• Do you want to create a loyal community around your brand?
• Are you looking to drive more traffic to your blog?

For example, if your goal is to sell an online course, your emails should guide subscribers on a journey—from getting to know you to seeing how your course solves their problems. When you’re clear on your goal, every email you send will have purpose and direction.

3. Choose the Right Tool: Your Email Marketing Secret Weapon

Picking the right email marketing tool is like choosing the perfect sidekick—it makes everything easier. Here are a few top picks for beginners:

• MailerLite: Super easy to use, budget-friendly, and packed with features like automation and landing pages.
• ConvertKit: Perfect for creators who want simple tools to set up forms, tags, and email sequences.
• Constant Contact: A reliable choice for small businesses that want straightforward tools and great customer support.

Pro tip: Look for a platform that offers a free trial so you can test it out. The right tool will make building and managing your list feel seamless, not overwhelming. some of my recommended tools are –

• Mailerlite – Mailerlite vs Mailchimp
• Convertkit (KIT) – Mailerlite vs Convertkit
• Mailchimp – Convertkit vs Mailchimp
• Getresponse – Getresponse vs Clickfunnels

Creating an Irresistible Lead Magnet: The Key to Growing Your Email List

A lead magnet is a free, valuable resource that you offer in exchange for someone’s email address. It’s like a “gift” that helps your audience solve a specific problem or answer a question they have. When done correctly, a lead magnet can quickly turn visitors into subscribers—and subscribers into loyal customers.

Here’s how to create a lead magnet that your audience will want to grab right away:

1. Types of Lead Magnets That Work for Different Audiences

• Ebooks:
  Ebooks are great for offering detailed information on a topic your audience cares about. They’re ideal when your audience wants to dive deep into a subject.
  Example: “Unlock the Secrets to Writing Emails that Convert” or “The Ultimate Guide to Building a Profitable Online Business.”
  Focus on offering real solutions or insights that your audience can use right away.
• Checklists:
  People love simple, easy-to-follow guides, and checklists provide just that! They offer actionable steps to help your audience get results quickly.
  Example: “Your Ultimate Guide to Growing Your Email List in 30 Days” or “The Only Checklist You Need to Launch Your First Product.”
  This type of lead magnet is great because it gives your audience something practical and immediately usable.
• Free Courses:
  Offering a free course is an excellent way to provide value while showing your expertise. If your audience is eager to learn something specific, a free course can be a great tool.
  Example: “Learn Email Marketing in 7 Days” or “Master Social Media Strategy in Just 10 Minutes a Day.”
  These can be short lessons that give your subscribers quick wins, while also introducing them to your paid offerings.

2. Crafting an Attractive Lead Magnet Title

The title and description of your lead magnet matter a lot. To make your lead magnet appealing, use clear, straightforward language that highlights the benefit to your audience.

Here are some tips for creating an enticing lead magnet:

• Use action-oriented words: Words like “Unlock,” “Discover,” “Get,” or “Master” make your lead magnet sound more compelling.
• Create a sense of immediate value: Use phrases like “Instant Access” or “Start today” to encourage people to take action right away.
• Promise a quick result: Phrases like “Get results in 7 days” or “Achieve your goals in just 5 minutes a day” let your audience know they will see a benefit soon.
• Focus on the benefit: Make sure your lead magnet title addresses a specific need or problem your audience faces. For example, “The Step-by-Step System for Growing Your Email List Fast” clearly tells people what they’ll get.

Designing High-Converting Opt-In Forms: Turning Visitors Into Subscribers

Opt-in forms are the heart of your email list-building strategy. The better you design and position them, the more likely your visitors will subscribe. Here’s how you can create opt-in forms that convert visitors into loyal email subscribers.

1. Where to Place Opt-In Forms

The placement of your opt-in forms is crucial. You want them to be visible and easy for visitors to find, but without being intrusive. Here are some of the best spots to place your forms:

• Homepage:
  Your homepage is where most of your visitors land. Place an opt-in form above the fold (visible without scrolling) or in a prominent location so it’s the first thing they see. You could offer a compelling lead magnet like “Download My Free Guide” to encourage sign-ups right away.
• Blog Sidebar:
  The sidebar is a great spot for opt-in forms. It’s visible as visitors scroll through your content, making it an ideal place for people to subscribe while reading your blog posts.
• Exit-Intent Popups:
  Exit-intent popups are triggered when a visitor moves to close the page or navigate away. They’re a great way to capture someone’s attention right before they leave. A well-timed message like “Wait! Don’t leave without your free resource!” can convince visitors to subscribe before exiting.

2. Crafting Copy for Forms

The copy you use in your opt-in forms plays a huge role in conversion rates. To make sure your forms stand out and persuade visitors to sign up, consider these tips:

• Use Action-Oriented Phrases:
  Instead of the standard “Submit” button, use action-oriented language that excites visitors. Try phrases like:
  • “Get My Free Guide”
  • “Download Now”
  • “Claim Your Free Copy”
    This type of language makes it clear that visitors are getting something valuable in exchange for their email address.
• Highlight the Benefit:
  Be specific about what the visitor will receive. For example, instead of just saying “Sign up for updates”, try “Get exclusive tips to grow your business” to show exactly what value they’ll get by subscribing.

3. The Importance of A/B Testing

A/B testing is one of the most powerful tools to optimize your opt-in forms. By testing different variations of your forms, you can identify what resonates best with your audience and boost conversions.

Ask yourself: What if changing just one headline could double your sign-ups? Try testing:

• Different headlines (e.g., “Unlock Your Free Guide” vs. “Get Started with Our Free Resources”).
• Button copy (e.g., “Get My Free Ebook” vs. “Download Now for Free”).
• Different form designs or colors.

Even small changes can lead to big results. Use A/B testing regularly to see what works and continue refining your forms for maximum impact.

Driving Traffic to Your Email Sign-Up: How to Get More Eyes on Your Forms

Once your opt-in forms and lead magnet are ready, the next step is to drive traffic to them. After all, the best opt-in form in the world won’t grow your email list if no one sees it! Here are effective ways to bring more visitors to your sign-up forms.

1. Content Marketing

Content marketing is one of the most reliable ways to attract visitors to your email sign-up. By creating valuable content that naturally leads to your opt-in, you can drive consistent traffic over time.

• Blog Posts: Write blog posts that solve specific problems for your audience. For example, if your lead magnet is about email marketing, create a blog post titled “10 Simple Steps to Grow Your Email List Today” and include a clear call-to-action (CTA) linking to your opt-in.
• Videos: Create short, engaging videos for platforms like YouTube or TikTok. In the video, mention your lead magnet and direct viewers to the link in your bio or description to sign up.
• Social Media Content: Share actionable tips, mini-guides, or behind-the-scenes stories on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn. Use captions like:
  “Want the full guide? Click the link in bio to get your free [lead magnet]!”

The key is to create content that provides immediate value while sparking curiosity about what your lead magnet offers.

2. Social Media Strategies

Social media is a powerful tool to drive traffic to your email sign-up. Use platforms where your target audience hangs out and create content that grabs attention.

• Promote Your Lead Magnet: Post eye-catching graphics, reels, or carousels that showcase your lead magnet. For example, if it’s a checklist, show a sneak peek and say: “Download the full checklist for free—link in bio!”
• Run Giveaways: Host a giveaway where participants need to sign up for your email list to enter. Make the prize something your audience values, like a free consultation or exclusive access to a resource.
• Engage in Communities: Join Facebook groups, Reddit threads, or LinkedIn communities where your audience is active. Share helpful advice, and when relevant, mention your lead magnet as a free resource.

3. Collaborations and Partnerships

Collaborating with others in your niche is a great way to reach new audiences who are already interested in what you offer.

• Guest Blogging: Write guest posts for established blogs in your niche. Include a link to your lead magnet in your author bio or within the post (if allowed). For instance, if you’re targeting small business owners, guest post on a popular small business blog and direct readers to your opt-in.
• Joint Webinars or Events: Partner with other creators or businesses to host a webinar or live event. Offer your lead magnet as a bonus resource for attendees to download.
• Affiliate or Influencer Partnerships: Collaborate with influencers or affiliates who share your target audience. They can promote your lead magnet to their followers, helping you grow your list.

Nurturing Your Subscribers: Building Strong Relationships Through Email

Growing your email list is just the first step. The real magic happens when you nurture your subscribers, turning them into loyal fans and customers. Here’s how to make your email communication meaningful and impactful.

1. Create a Welcome Email Series

Your welcome email series sets the tone for your relationship with subscribers. It’s your chance to introduce yourself, showcase your value, and build trust.

• Start with a Warm Welcome:
  Begin with a conversational tone to make your subscribers feel like part of a community.
  Example: “Hey [Name], welcome to the [Your Brand] family! We’re thrilled to have you here.”
• Deliver Immediate Value:
  If they signed up for a lead magnet, include it in the first email with a message like: “Here’s the free guide we promised—happy reading!”
• Share Your Story:
  Use subsequent emails to share a bit about yourself or your brand’s mission. Let them know how you can help them and what they can expect from your emails.

Keep your emails short, personal, and full of value to make a strong first impression.

2. Segment Your List for Personalization

Not all subscribers are the same, and treating them that way can lead to disengagement. Instead, segment your list to tailor your messages based on their interests and behavior.

• Why Segmenting Matters:
  Imagine you’re sending an email about advanced email marketing strategies to someone who’s just getting started—it won’t resonate. Segmentation ensures the right message reaches the right person.
• How to Segment:
  • Use sign-up forms to gather insights (e.g., ask their goals or interests).
  • Segment based on actions, like clicks or downloads.
  • Create categories like beginners, advanced users, or specific industry groups.

When your emails align with your subscribers’ needs, they’re more likely to stay engaged and take action.

3. Provide Consistent Value

People join your list because they expect something valuable from you. To keep them engaged, deliver content that helps, educates, or entertains.

• Offer Practical Tips:
  Share actionable advice that solves your audience’s problems. For instance, if your subscribers are bloggers, send an email titled: “3 Quick Tweaks to Boost Your Email Open Rates Today.”
• Mix Up Your Content:
  Don’t just send promotional emails. Share stories, behind-the-scenes updates, or exclusive content they won’t find elsewhere.
• Stay Consistent:
  Whether you email once a week or bi-weekly, stick to a schedule. Consistency builds trust and keeps your audience looking forward to your emails.
• 

How to build a email list from scratch (21 ways)

1. Offer a Free Resource (Lead Magnet)

A lead magnet is a free gift, like an ebook or checklist, that people get when they sign up for your email list.

How to Use It:

1. Think about your audience’s biggest problem. Create a free resource that solves it.
   Example: If your audience wants to save money, offer “10 Easy Ways to Save $500 This Month.”
2. Make it using simple tools like Google Docs or Canva.
3. Share it everywhere—on your website, social media, or blog.

Why It Works:
People love free things, especially when it solves a problem for them.

How to Make It Better:
Be specific. Instead of offering something broad like “Marketing Tips,” go for “5 Social Media Tricks to Double Your Followers in a Month.”

2. Use Popups When People Are Leaving Your Website

Popups that show up when someone is about to leave your site are a great way to grab their attention like this.

How to Use It:

1. Install a popup tool like Sumo or OptinMonster on your website.
2. Write a simple, catchy message like “Wait! Don’t miss our free guide to [topic].”
3. Test different messages and designs to see which works best.

Why It Works:
Before someone leaves your site, the popup gives them one last reason to stay connected with you.

How to Make It Better:
Add urgency to your message, like “Get this offer before it’s gone!” Use a simple design with a clear button.

3. Offer Discounts or Coupons

If you run an online store, offer a discount in exchange for people signing up for your email list.

How to Use It:

1. Add a message to your site, like “Sign up and get 15% off your first order!”
2. Once they sign up, send them the discount code in a welcome email.

Why It Works:
People love saving money, and they’ll happily give their email to get a discount.

How to Make It Better:
Make it feel special by saying it’s “Only for Subscribers.” Add a countdown to create urgency, like “Offer ends in 24 hours!”

4. Put Sign-Up Forms on Your Homepage

Your homepage is the first thing visitors see. Make it easy for them to join your email list right there.

How to Use It:

1. Place the sign-up form near the top of your homepage so it’s easy to find.
2. Write a simple message like “Join thousands of readers and get free weekly tips.”
3. Only ask for their email to keep it quick and easy.

Why It Works:
If people like your website, they’ll be happy to sign up right away.

How to Make It Better:
Add a reason why they should sign up, like “Get exclusive tips I don’t share anywhere else!” Use bright colors for the sign-up button.

5. Add a Floating Bar

A floating bar is a small sign-up form that stays visible as people scroll down your site.

How to Use It:

1. Use tools like Hello Bar to create a floating bar.
2. Write a simple message like “Get free tips in your inbox—sign up now!”
3. Keep it short and to the point so it doesn’t feel annoying.

Why It Works:
Since it’s always visible, people can join your list anytime they feel interested.

How to Make It Better:
Make the bar stand out by using bold colors. Add a small animation to catch attention.

6. Run a Giveaway or Contest

People love winning free stuff. Use a giveaway to get people to sign up for your email list.

How to Use It:

1. Choose a prize your audience will love. Example: A free product, course, or gift card.
2. Promote the contest on your website, social media, or email.
3. To enter the contest, they must sign up for your email list.

Why It Works:
Everyone loves free stuff, so they’ll happily give their email for a chance to win.

How to Make It Better:
Ask participants to share the contest with their friends for extra chances to win. This helps you reach more people.

7. Write Guest Articles on Other Blogs

Write helpful content for other websites, and ask readers to visit your site to sign up for your email list.

How to Use It:

1. Find blogs in your niche that allow guest posts.
2. Write an article that solves a problem for their readers.
3. At the end of the article, invite readers to visit your site and grab a free resource (lead magnet).

Why It Works:
You reach new audiences who trust the blog you’re writing for, which makes them more likely to join your list.

How to Make It Better:
Create a special sign-up page for readers from that blog. Make the resource match the topic of your article.

8. Share Your Free Resources on Social Media

Use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to tell people about your free resource (lead magnet).

How to Use It:

1. Post about your free resource. For example: “Get our free guide to doubling your followers—link in bio!”
2. Share it in stories, posts, or videos.

Why It Works:
Social media helps you reach lots of people quickly. Many of them will be interested in your free offer.

How to Make It Better:
Use eye-catching images or videos to grab attention. Add a short, exciting caption that creates curiosity.

9. Use Instagram Links or Stories

Instagram is great for sharing visual content and directing people to your free resources.

How to Use It:

1. Create Instagram stories or posts about your free resource.
2. Use links in stories (if you have the swipe-up feature) or add the link in your bio.

Why It Works:
Instagram users love engaging with creative and fun content, which makes it a great place to promote your offer.

How to Make It Better:
Add polls or questions to your stories to get people curious before you share the link.

10. Use Facebook Ads

Facebook ads help you reach exactly the kind of people who might want to join your email list.

How to Use It:

1. Create an ad promoting your free resource or discount.
2. Target people based on their interests or location.
3. Direct them to a sign-up page where they can get your freebie.

Why It Works:
Facebook lets you reach the right people who are likely to want your offer.

How to Make It Better:
Use simple, friendly images and words. Run ads to remind people who visited your site but didn’t sign up yet (this is called retargeting).

11. Add a Sign-Up Form to Your Blog Posts

Place email sign-up forms within your blog posts to catch readers while they’re engaged.

How to Use It:

1. Add the form in the middle or at the end of your blog posts.
2. Use a message like “Enjoying this article? Sign up for more tips sent to your inbox!”
3. Offer a related free resource to encourage sign-ups.

Why It Works:
If someone enjoys your content, they’re likely to want more.

How to Make It Better:
Match the freebie or resource with the topic of the blog post. For example, if the post is about social media, offer a guide like “5 Social Media Tricks You Need to Know.”

12. Add a Sign-Up Button to Your Facebook Page

Your Facebook page can be a great place to grow your email list.

How to Use It:

1. Use Facebook’s built-in “Sign Up” button feature.
2. Link it to a landing page where people can join your list.
3. Add posts reminding people to use the button to sign up.

Why It Works:
Your Facebook audience already follows you, so they’re likely to be interested in joining your email list too.

How to Make It Better:
Pin a post to the top of your page promoting your freebie and explaining what they’ll get when they sign up.

13. Collect Emails at Events or Webinars

If you’re hosting an event or webinar, ask attendees to join your email list.

How to Use It:

1. Create a sign-up form during registration or the event itself.
2. Mention how joining the list will keep them updated or give them extra resources from the event.

Why It Works:
People who attend your events already trust you and are interested in what you offer.

How to Make It Better:
Offer exclusive content or recordings of the event as a bonus for signing up.

14. Use Exit-Intent Popups on Blog Posts

Add popups that appear when someone tries to leave your blog post.

How to Use It:

1. Set up a tool like OptinMonster to show the popup when a reader is about to exit.
2. Offer a resource related to the blog post they were reading.

Why It Works:
It gives readers one last chance to join your list before they leave.

How to Make It Better:
Use a short, attention-grabbing message like “Don’t miss out! Get our [free resource] before you go.”

15. Add a Sign-Up Form to Your Email Signature

Every email you send can promote your list.

How to Use It:

1. Add a line like “Want free tips? Join my email list here [link].” at the bottom of your email signature.
2. Use this in all your emails—business and personal.

Why It Works:
It’s a subtle way to get more subscribers from your daily emails.

How to Make It Better:
Make the link more enticing by adding a benefit, like “Get free weekly tips to grow your business.”

16. Partner with Other Creators or Businesses

Team up with people in your niche to cross-promote your email list.

How to Use It:

1. Find someone who shares a similar audience.
2. Collaborate on a project, like a free webinar or ebook, and promote it to both audiences.
3. Collect emails from everyone who signs up.

Why It Works:
You can reach a bigger audience that already trusts your partner.

How to Make It Better:
Choose partners who align with your values and niche. Create a unique resource that excites both audiences.

17. Add a Call-to-Action (CTA) on YouTube Videos

If you create YouTube videos, encourage viewers to join your email list.

How to Use It:

1. At the end of your video, say something like, “Want more tips? Check the link in the description to join my email list.”
2. Add the sign-up link in the video description.

Why It Works:
Your video viewers already enjoy your content, so they’ll likely want more.

How to Make It Better:
Use eye-catching graphics in your video to point out the link. Create a video series that leads to a freebie sign-up.

18. Add a Checkbox to Your Contact Form

Let people opt into your email list when they fill out your website’s contact form.

How to Use It:

1. Add a small checkbox that says something like, “Yes, I want to receive helpful updates and tips.”
2. Keep it optional, so it feels less pushy.

Why It Works:
People already filling out your contact form are interested in you, so this is a natural next step.

How to Make It Better:
Offer a free resource for checking the box, like “Get a free marketing checklist when you join.”

19. Use QR Codes Offline

Use QR codes to collect emails in real life.

How to Use It:

1. Create a QR code that links to your email sign-up form.
2. Add the QR code to flyers, business cards, or presentations.
3. Encourage people to scan it for a free resource or offer.

Why It Works:
It’s a quick and easy way to collect emails, even when you’re not online.

How to Make It Better:
Add a headline near the QR code like “Scan here for a free guide!” to make it clear why they should scan.

20. Create a Landing Page for Social Media Ads

Use a simple webpage dedicated to collecting emails from your social media ads.

How to Use It:

1. Design a page with just one goal: getting people to sign up.
2. Include a short headline, a description of the freebie, and a sign-up form.
3. Run ads directing people to the page.

Why It Works:
Focused landing pages make it easier for people to sign up since there are no distractions.

How to Make It Better:
Keep the page simple. Use a bold headline like “Get Your Free Guide Now.” Add testimonials or reviews to build trust.

21. Use Testimonials to Build Trust

Show how others have benefited from being on your email list.

How to Use It:

1. Collect feedback or success stories from your current subscribers.
2. Add their quotes to your sign-up page or popups.
3. Use lines like, “Here’s what others are saying about our tips…”

Why It Works:
When people see others enjoying your emails, they’ll be more likely to join.

How to Make It Better:
Use real stories with names and photos (if possible) to make the testimonials feel authentic.

Conclusion: Start Growing Your Email List Today