When I first heard people say, “the moneys in the list,” I honestly didn’t get it. I thought my blog alone would be enough to grow an audience and make an impact. But I quickly learned that an email list isn’t just another marketing tool, it’s one of the most powerful ways to build genuine relationships with your readers.

If you’re starting from zero, don’t worry. Every blogger with a thriving list started exactly where you are. Let’s walk through how you can grow an engaged email list, step by step.

Why You Need an Email List

Your email list is your direct line to your readers. Unlike social media, where algorithms decide who sees your content, your email subscribers have chosen to hear from you. That’s a big deal.

When someone gives you their email address, they’re saying, “I trust you enough to let you into my inbox.” That trust is what turns casual readers into loyal followers and, eventually, paying customers if you decide to sell something later on.

Step 1: Choose a Reliable Email Platform

Before you start collecting subscribers, you’ll need an email marketing platform. A few popular (and beginner-friendly) options are:

• ConvertKit
• MailerLite
• Flodesk
• Brevo (formerly Sendinblue)

Each one lets you design sign-up forms, automate welcome emails, and track your growth. Many have free plans, which is great if you’re just starting out.

Step 2: Create a Simple Opt-In Form

Your opt-in form is where readers enter their name and email address to join your list. Keep it clean, short, and easy to find. Add it to your homepage, sidebar, and at the end of your blog posts.

Use clear language. Instead of “Subscribe to my newsletter,” try something that highlights value, like:

• “Join my email list for weekly blogging tips and encouragement.”
• “Get my free guide to creating consistent blog content.”

People are more likely to sign up when they know what’s in it for them.

Step 3: Offer a Freebie (Lead Magnet)

If you really want to grow your list fast, offer a freebie, also known as a lead magnet. This could be:

• A short ebook or guide
• A checklist or template
• A mini email course
• A printable planner

Make sure it solves a specific problem for your readers. For example, if you blog about productivity, create a “7-Day Focus Planner.” If you write about blogging, offer a “Beginner’s SEO Checklist.”

Your freebie doesn’t need to be fancy, just helpful and relevant.

Step 4: Welcome Your Subscribers

Once someone joins your list, don’t let them sit there without hearing from you. Send a warm welcome email that introduces who you are, what your blog is about, and what kind of emails they can expect.

You might write something like:
“Hi! I’m so glad you’re here. I started this blog to help new bloggers find confidence and consistency. Every week, I’ll send tips, encouragement, and behind-the-scenes updates to help you grow. I can’t wait to connect.”

A friendly, personal welcome sets the tone for everything that follows.

Step 5: Be Consistent with Your Emails

It’s better to email once a week consistently than to send a flurry of emails and then disappear for months. Your readers want to hear from you regularly, but not constantly.

Treat your emails like conversations. Share stories, small wins, lessons learned and even struggles. People connect with you, not just your content.

Step 6: Build Trust, Not Just Numbers

Don’t focus on how many people are on your list. Focus on how engaged they are. A smaller list of loyal readers is far more valuable than thousands of people who never open your emails.

Ask for feedback, include a question at the end of your emails, and encourage readers to reply. When they do, respond personally. Those one-on-one connections build trust like nothing else.

Finally…

Growing an email list takes time, but it’s worth every bit of effort. You’re not just collecting names; you’re building a community that believes in your message. Whether you have ten subscribers or ten thousand, show up for them with consistency, honesty, and heart.

Start small, stay genuine, and watch your community grow one subscriber at a time.