[FAQ]

Hey everyone,

I’ve just started a new blog and I’m trying to build my email list from absolute zero. I’m on a pretty tight budget, so I’m looking for effective ways to get those first 100 or so subscribers without having to pay for ads.

What are some practical, actionable strategies that you’ve found work well for this? I’m thinking about how to best use social media, my personal network, or any other free channels. It feels a bit like shouting into the void right now!

Any and all tips are welcome, thanks!

[Jeff Bullas]

Getting your first 100 email subscribers is a significant first step, and it is entirely achievable without spending any money by using a combination of your existing network and some consistent effort.

First, you can begin with your personal and professional network. This includes your friends, family, colleagues, and past clients. It is important not to add them to your list without their consent. Instead, reach out to them personally, briefly explain the value of what you are creating with your newsletter, and ask if they would be interested in subscribing.

Second, you should leverage all your social media profiles. Place a clear call to action and a direct link to your email sign-up page in the bio section of your Instagram, Twitter/X, LinkedIn, and Facebook accounts. Periodically, create posts that specifically talk about your newsletter, highlight the benefits of subscribing, and directly ask your existing social media followers to join your list.

Third, while not strictly required for the first few subscribers, creating a simple but valuable lead magnet will significantly increase your sign-up rate. This could be a one-page checklist, a short guide, or a useful template that solves a specific problem for your target audience. It provides a tangible incentive for someone to give you their email address.

Fourth, you should engage in relevant online communities. Participate genuinely in places where your target audience gathers, such as specific Facebook groups, LinkedIn groups, Reddit subreddits, or other online forums. The key is to provide value by answering questions and contributing to discussions. Do not spam your sign-up link. Instead, if it is relevant and permitted by the group’s rules, you can mention your newsletter, or more commonly, have a link to it in your profile signature.

Fifth, add a sign-up link to your everyday email signature. Every email you send for work or personal matters then becomes a subtle opportunity for someone to discover what you are building.

Sixth, consider a collaboration with another creator in a similar or complementary niche. You could do a content swap where you each mention the other’s newsletter, or perhaps do a joint social media live session to cross-promote to each other’s audiences.

The common thread here is that people will subscribe if they believe you are offering them something of genuine value, whether that is useful information, entertainment, or a solution to a problem. Reaching your first 100 subscribers is about being proactive and consistently making people aware of your newsletter across all the free channels you have access to.

Cheers,

Jeff

[Author]

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