Getting new clients is exciting! But let’s face it, the path ahead can sometimes feel like you’re trying to assemble IKEA furniture without the instructions. You know it should end up as a sleek, useful piece (or a successful coaching business), but where do you start?
Many new coaches are bursting with passion and knowledge, eager to transform lives. Yet, the thought of navigating the digital marketing landscape—especially creating an opt-in funnel—can be as daunting as deciding to floss regularly. We get it. The jargon alone can make you want to hide under the covers.
Why You Need a Simple Funnel
You might be wondering, “Why do I need a funnel in the first place?”
Great question! A simple funnel is like a litmus test for your audience. It helps you see who’s further along in their buyer’s journey and actively searching for solutions. This is a game-changer. It’s very different from someone casually liking or commenting on a post. By opting into your funnel, they’re raising their hand and saying, “I’m interested in what you have to offer!” This is your cue to step in and guide them toward transformation.
Here are 5 easy steps to build your first opt-in funnel…
Step 1: The Power of a Lead Magnet
Before you start building your funnel, think about your party favor—your lead magnet. This is a valuable freebie you offer in exchange for an email address. It could be anything from a simple checklist to a daily fitness plan. The key here is simplicity and value. You’re not trying to solve all their problems in one go; you’re offering a taste of your expertise that leaves them wanting more.
(And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good party favor? Especially if it’s not another refrigerator magnet.)
No clue where to start? Grab my Ultimate Lead Magnet Formula Here (includes a Canva template).
Step 2: Crafting Your Opt-In Funnel
With your lead magnet in mind, it’s time to set up your opt-in funnel.
Think of your opt-in funnel as your digital handshake. It’s the first step in building a relationship with your audience. The funnel consists of:
- An Opt-In Page: This is where you invite people to subscribe to your list in exchange for your lead magnet. It’s your chance to make a great first impression, so be clear about the value you’re offering.
- A Thank You Page: After they subscribe, this page delivers the promised lead magnet and thanks them for joining your community. It’s also a great place to give them a taste of what’s to come.
Creating an effective opt-in funnel is about more than just collecting emails; it’s about starting a conversation and building trust. Keep it simple, focus on the value you’re providing, and make sure the process is smooth for your new subscribers.
Step 3: Growing and Nurturing Your Email List
Each email subscriber is potentially a raving fan waiting to cheer you on. And here’s the kicker: building an email list means you’re not relying solely on social media. Hacks happen, and platforms shut down, but what about your email list? That’s your gold. It’s a direct line to your audience that you own and control.
The thought of building an email list can feel overwhelming, but it can be easier than you think!
Step 4: Delivering Value Through Email
Once someone has trusted you with their email, it’s showtime. This is your chance to shine, providing so much value that they can’t help but look forward to your emails. It’s about building trust and showing that you understand their challenges and have the solutions they need.
The key—don’t just deliver your freebie and end it there (like so many do). Create a three- to five-part nurturing sequence with additional tips and insights to help them get their quick win! This is also when you can add a P.S. with a CTA to take that next step to work with you.
Step 5: Choosing the Right Platform for Seamless Integration
When it comes to setting up your opt-in funnel, simplicity is key. Take a look at your current CRM or landing page platform to see if it offers an all-in-one solution with built-in templates for landing pages and opt-in forms. If not, you might face the potential headache of trying to integrate two separate platforms.
If you’re starting from scratch or looking for a simpler alternative, ConvertKit is a great option. It’s an all-in-one platform designed specifically for creators, offering easy-to-use templates for opt-in forms and the ability to set up simple automations with ease, all without the tech jargon.
Now, if you’re nodding along but wondering how to find these eager subscribers without shouting into the void of social media, I’ve got you covered.
The Visibility Kickstart Club is designed to give you a boost, offering guidance on how to find strategic collaborations to build your audience with ease. Say goodbye to posting and hoping. Say hello to strategic growth and a thriving email list.
Remember, stepping into the coaching world with your opt-in funnel ready isn’t as daunting as it sounds. With the right tools and a step-by-step approach, you’ll be welcoming new subscribers (and potential clients) in no time.
So, let’s get this party started!
