As a marketing tool, social media has proven to be a fantastic way to obtain brand recognition, sales and even build a following. It is important to remember, though, that no matter how many fans or followers you have, social sites such as Facebook do not give you the security you need when it comes to retention.
Social platforms make changes all the time that affect how many people see your posts, videos, and ads. Also, when someone leaves the site or creates a new account, you lose contact with that person unless they intentionally search you out and follow you again.
Solely relying on a third party to give you access to your followers is a big mistake, but you can benefit from these sites, and work them to your advantage by using them to build your email list. Your goal then is to take your social media accounts and convert those fans and followers into email subscribers. Here’s how to do it for free.
Make Sure Your Followers Know You Have A List
One of the reasons your followers might not be on your list is that they don’t even know it exists. If you have built up a good amount of interactive fans and followers on your social media pages and failed to mention that you have a list, how do you expect to see them as subscribers there? Chances are, if those people enjoy your shares and interaction, they will be interested in getting email updates from you as well.
Share Excellent Content
The more value you provide to the people who follow you on social media, the more interested they will be in your future posts. One way you can do this is by making interesting and entertaining posts regularly. This way people will assume your mailing list will offer value too!
Generate Trust
Social media is a wonderful way for people to get to know you. Spend time being sociable; interacting with your fans and showing your interest in them. Answer questions and messages quickly, participate in conversations regularly and make yourself available to be of service to your clients and customers. When you develop a reputation for being a trustworthy and caring leader, people will be more likely to click away from the social media platform and give you their contact information.
Pique Their Curiosity
Talk about your offers and products, but don’t give away all the details all of the time. If you provide special discounts and offers only to your mailing list, you can pique the curiosity of your social media audience by mentioning all the exciting things your subscribers are getting. People hate to be left out, so suggest that your fans subscribe to your list to get all your VIP deals and information.
Offer A Freebie
People love freebies and giving up their contact information is a small price to pay in exchange for getting their hands on something that solves a problem they might be having. Pay close attention to the conversations your followers are having and what kinds of problems they are facing in their businesses or lives. Then, offer them a high-quality freebie that will help them in that area. This freebie can be an e-course, an e-book, a webinar or any other number of items, depending on what your audience needs.
As you can see, with a little bit of ingenuity you can skillfully transition your social media followers to your email list for free. Try one of the suggestions above today and remember, consistency is key to making any of them work for you.
