Building your Email List in 2025: How to Grow Organically and Genuinely Connect
You hear it all the time: “Build an email list!” But if you’re anything like most small business owners, the thought of it feels… well, a bit daunting. Do you just ask everyone to sign up? Buy a list (spoiler: don’t do that)? Or hope people click that tiny link in your social bio?
Honestly, growing an email list that your audience actually wants to be on is way simpler (and more rewarding) than you might think. It’s not about collecting random email addresses; it’s about building a community that trusts you and wants to hear from you.
Here are our most practical ways to grow your list in 2025:
1. Offer Something Worth Signing Up For
People won’t just hand over their email for nothing. Give them a reason! Think about what your ideal customers are looking for:
- A simple checklist (e.g., a “Spring Cleaning Checklist” for a tidy service, or a “Tax Deductions Guide” for accountants)
- A discount or exclusive offer for first-time subscribers
- Early access to new products or services
- A helpful guide, template, or short video
Make it clear, valuable, and directly related to what you do.
2. Make It Easy (Like, Really Easy)
The easier you make it to sign up, the more people will.
- On your website: Have a clear, visible sign-up form. It could be a pop-up (use sparingly!), a section in your footer, or a dedicated landing page.
- On social media: Use the link in bio, especially on Instagram, to direct people to a sign-up page. Mention it in your captions and even your Reels.
- In person: If you have a physical store or meet clients face-to-face, have a sign-up sheet or QR code ready.
3. Be Honest About What They’ll Get
Don’t bait-and-switch. If you promise weekly tips, send weekly tips. If you promise exclusive discounts, deliver them. Transparency builds trust, and trust keeps subscribers engaged. Be upfront about how often you’ll email and what kind of content they can expect.
4. Show, Don’t Just Tell
Instead of just saying, “Sign up for our newsletter,” say “Sign up for weekly insights on [topic] plus exclusive subscriber-only offers.” Show them the value before they commit.
Building an email list is about building relationships. Focus on:
- Offering real value
- Making sign-up incredibly simple
- Being honest and consistent
When you do this, your list becomes a powerful asset for staying connected and growing your business.
If you’re struggling with how to get started, or want to make your current list work harder, Big Bao is here to help. Let’s build an audience that genuinely wants to hear from you.
