If Instagram ghosted you tomorrow, how would you reach your audience? Scary thought, right? 😬 This is exactly why learning how to grow your email list as a web designer is such a game-changer.

With the right opt-in incentive (aka lead magnet), your website works for you—capturing subscribers while you sleep. And unlike social media, no algorithm can block your reach.

Why email lists matter for designers!

Here’s the thing: most people aren’t ready to buy on their first visit to your website. Stats show that 97% of visitors aren’t ready to purchase on a first visit and a third will go check out your competitors.

That’s why growing your email list as a web designer should be at the top of your priority list. Your list keeps the conversation alive. It can turn a quick click into a long-term connection. 👌🏼

What to offer to get potential client email addresses

Your opt-in should solve one clear problem for your dream client. Short and specific wins every time.

Ideas include:

• A checklist (like “Website Prep in 5 Steps”)

• A downloadable price guide

• A cheat sheet (image sizes, copy prompts, file types)

• A mini workbook with a few action-based prompts

• Swipe files or templates

If you’re wondering how to grow your email list as a web designer without spending weeks creating content, start with something you already use in your business. Repurpose a client resource, price list, or guide.

If you want to see the whole process in action, check out the Free Stuff page on my own website for example. You’ll see that you need to opt in with your email address, and then a sequence of emails will send to you offering helpful info and letting you get to know me a little more.

Want to see exactly how I use WordPress to build irresistible websites for clients?

→ Watch my free training video and learn the simple, no-code way to build websites that wow!

Tools to make capturing emails easy

Keep it simple. Use platforms like:

• MailerLite (free plan available)

• Flodesk (beautiful and beginner-friendly)

• WordPress with your favourite page builder (I love and use Divi!)

• I love Fluent Forms to create beautiful, effortless WP forms (no code required)

Then embed a simple form across your website to collect their name and email address in return for them getting access to your valuable freebie! Add the form to your homepage, blog posts, and about page.

How to grow your email list as a web designer

1. Create your freebie (export as a PDF).

2. Set up an automation in your chosen email software (Mailerlite, etc.) that delivers the freebie instantly by email when the form on your website is submitted. Include a link to the freebie pdf in the first email. Email subject example: “Here’s your free guide”.

3. Keep your website opt-in form light—name + email only.

4. Add a clear thank-you website page with next steps (such as read a case study, view portfolio, book a call etc). Redirect the user here after they submit their details in the opt-in form.

Learning how to grow your email list as a web designer doesn’t need to feel overwhelming!

What to email them after they join

Don’t stop at the freebie. A welcome email sequence builds trust. Set this up once, and know that you’re getting “introduced” further to new potential clients automatically by email!

For example:

• Day 0: Deliver the freebie pdf as promised.

• Day 2: Share your story and who you help.

• Day 4: Offer a quick valuable tip or case study.

• Day 6: Highlight your services.

• Day 9: Answer common objections + CTA to enquire.

This simple follow-up shows your value and guides new subscribers toward working with you. Tip: make sure to type as you talk in your emails to build trust! Be your wonderful self, and you’ll attract clients who are way more aligned with you.

Mistakes to avoid when building your email opt-in

• Don’t add too many form fields. We want it to be so quick and easy for them to opt-in that it’s a no-brainer.

• Don’t bury your opt-in on your website where no one sees it.

• Don’t keep it vague—your freebie must be irresistible. Call the pdf guide something that makes it absolutely clear how it will help them and why they need it.

• Don’t skip the follow-up emails. A great opportunity to build trust with new potential clients – all automated!

Avoid these pitfalls and you’ll already be ahead of most designers who wonder how to grow your email list as a web designer but never implement it.

Happy creating!

Growing your email list doesn’t have to be complicated. Keep it simple. Create one irresistible opt-in. Add it to spots on your website that people will definitely see it. Follow up with a short and valuable welcome sequence.

That’s how to grow your email list as a web designer—and set yourself up for more enquiries, better clients, and less stress about algorithms!

Em x