Search rankings change. Social media reach drops. But an email list is an audience you own: people who asked to hear from you, and whom you can reach any time. It’s one of the most valuable things a blog can build, and the best time to start is earlier than you think.
Why start an email list now?
- Return visitors: email brings readers back for every new post.
- Independence: no algorithm decides who sees your message.
- Relationships: email feels personal; readers reply and share ideas.
- Income later: lists are where products, courses and affiliate recommendations sell best.
Step 1: Choose an email provider
You need an email service provider to collect addresses legally and send newsletters. Several have free plans for small lists, including MailerLite, Kit (formerly ConvertKit), Mailchimp and Brevo. Look for:
- A free plan for your first few hundred or thousand subscribers
- Easy signup forms you can embed in WordPress
- Automations (to send a welcome email automatically)
- Simple, readable email templates
Step 2: Create a reason to subscribe
“Subscribe to my newsletter” rarely works on its own. Offer something useful and specific, often called a lead magnet or freebie:
- A checklist (“Blog launch checklist”)
- A template (“Editorial calendar template”)
- A mini guide or cheat sheet
- A short email course (“5 days to your first blog post”)
- A resource list
Step 3: Add signup forms to your blog
Place forms where interested readers will see them:
- At the end of every post
- Inside relevant posts (a checklist offer in a “how-to” post)
- On your About page
- On a dedicated landing page you can link to from social media
Avoid aggressive pop-ups on a new blog, especially on mobile.
Step 4: Write a welcome email
Your welcome email gets the highest open rate you’ll ever see. Use it well:
- Deliver the freebie (link at the top).
- Introduce yourself in two or three sentences.
- Tell them what to expect and how often.
- Link to your two or three best posts.
- Ask a question: “What’s your biggest challenge with ___?” Replies teach you what to write next.
Step 5: Email regularly
Choose a rhythm you can keep: weekly, every other week or monthly. A simple format works:
- A short personal note
- Your latest post (with a summary and link)
- One tip or resource
Add your newsletter days to your editorial calendar.
Stay legal and respectful
- Only add people who signed up themselves.
- Include your physical mailing address or a compliant alternative, and an unsubscribe link (providers do this automatically).
- Explain what subscribers will receive.
- Mention email in your privacy policy.
Growing your list
- Create a freebie for each main category of your blog.
- Promote your freebie on Pinterest. See Pinterest for bloggers.
- Mention it in guest posts and interviews.
- Ask subscribers to forward emails to friends.
FAQs
Should I start an email list with no traffic?
Yes. Set it up early so every reader who would subscribe has the chance. Your first 50 subscribers are valuable feedback.
What should I email about?
New posts, behind-the-scenes notes, quick tips and answers to subscriber questions. Keep it useful and personal.
How often should I email?
Consistency beats frequency. Every week or two is a good start. Monthly is fine if that’s what you can sustain.