How to Build an Email List and Grow Your Business Beyond Social Media

If you’re like most women entrepreneurs, your business depends heavily on social media and word-of-mouth referrals. Maybe you’ve built a great following on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok, and you get engagement, but deep down, you know something is missing.

What happens if your Instagram account gets hacked? Or if an algorithm change slashes your reach overnight?

That’s where email marketing comes in.

I know, I know—email might feel outdated compared to the fast pace of social media. But here’s the truth:

Social media is rented space. Your email list is yours forever.

If you're serious about growing a sustainable business that doesn’t rely on social media alone, it’s time to start building your email list.

What Is Email Marketing and Why Does It Matter?

Email marketing is one of the most powerful tools for connecting with your audience, nurturing relationships, and turning followers into paying clients. Unlike social media, where you’re competing with endless distractions, an email is personal, direct, and lands right in someone’s inbox.

Think about it this way: when someone gives you their email address, they’re saying, “I want to hear from you.” That’s a much stronger connection than a quick follow on Instagram.

Here’s why email marketing is a game changer:

  • It’s more reliable than social media. You don’t have to worry about algorithms limiting your reach.

  • It allows you to build deeper relationships. You can have meaningful conversations through weekly emails instead of short social media posts.

  • It drives more sales. Studies show that email converts better than social media. If you're launching a course, service, or product, your email list is your best sales tool.

How to Get Started with Email Marketing

The thought of setting up an email list might feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a simple step-by-step approach:

1. Choose the Right Email Marketing Platform

There are tons of email platforms out there, but I recommend Flodesk because it’s easy to use, visually stunning, and doesn’t charge you more as your list grows.

If you’re ready to start, use my link to get 50% off your Flodesk subscription: [Insert Flodesk Link]

Not sure how to set it up? I have a step-by-step training that walks you through how to start using Flodesk for email marketing success. [Insert Training Link]

2. Create a Simple Freebie (Lead Magnet)

People aren’t just going to sign up for your email list because you ask them to. They need a reason.

A freebie, or lead magnet, is a valuable resource you give away in exchange for an email address. Think about what your ideal clients struggle with and create something that helps them.

Some ideas:

  • A PDF checklist (“10 Things Every First-Time Homebuyer Needs to Know”)

  • A mini training or webinar

  • A discount code for your products or services

  • A template or swipe file

Your freebie should solve a small problem and be something your audience truly wants.

3. Set Up a Simple Landing Page

Once you have your freebie, you need a landing page—a simple page where people can enter their email to access the freebie.

Good news: Flodesk makes this super easy with beautiful, customizable landing pages you can create in minutes.

4. Write Your First Few Emails

Once someone joins your list, don’t just let them sit there. Have a welcome email sequence ready so they immediately feel connected to you.

A simple welcome sequence might look like this:

  • Email 1: Introduce yourself and deliver the freebie

  • Email 2: Share your story and why you do what you do

  • Email 3: Provide a quick win or tip related to your expertise

  • Email 4: Invite them to work with you, buy your product, or join your community

5. Show Up Consistently

The key to email marketing success is consistency. Aim to send at least one email per week with valuable content, updates, or offers.

If you're not sure what to write, think about:

  • A lesson you recently learned in business

  • A question clients ask you all the time

  • A story about how you helped someone

  • A behind-the-scenes look at your process

Why This Needs to Be Your Focus This Year

Social media will always be part of your marketing, but if you’re only relying on Instagram or Facebook, you’re leaving money on the table.

Imagine waking up one day and knowing you have hundreds (or thousands) of people waiting to hear from you—people who are genuinely interested in what you offer. That’s the power of email marketing.

And the best part? It’s never too late to start.

Your Next Steps

Step 1: Sign up for Flodesk and get 50% off your subscription. Grab your discount here.
Step 2: Watch my free training to learn how to set up Flodesk for success. Grab your training here.
Step 3: Start building your email list today—your future self (and business) will thank you.

You don’t have to figure this out alone. I’ve helped women entrepreneurs go from zero subscribers to a thriving email list that brings in consistent leads and sales—and I can help you do the same.

Are you ready to build something sustainable? Let’s do this.

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