59: How to Create and Launch Your First Freebie
If you’ve been around here a while, you’re likely aware of the importance of building an email list and using a freebie to incentivize people to join. But you might be wondering how to actually create a freebie and get it out into the world.
In this episode, Heather walks you through the step-by-step process of creating and launching a new freebie. She covers everything from designing the freebie in Canva, setting up email sequences in ConvertKit, to promoting the freebie via Facebook ads and social media. She also provides tips on targeting the right customers and ensuring the process is quick and manageable.
Get ready to grow your email list and engage your target audience effectively!
Key Takeaways:
- (02:35) Creating a freebie with your target customer in mind
- (06:10) Step 1: Creating your freebie
- (07:10) Step 2: Creating a cover graphic
- (08:10) Step 3: Creating feature images
- (09:30) Step 4: Email service provider setup
- (12:10) Step 5: Creating a landing page
- (15:20) Steps 6 and 7: Promoting your freebie
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How to Launch an Irresistible Freebie for Your Teacher Biz
One indispensable tool in growing a teacher biz is your email list. In this blog post, we’ll walk through how to create and launch a compelling freebie to grow your email list.
Why An Email List Matters
An email list isn’t just a list of names and emails; it’s your direct line to people who are genuinely interested in what you have to offer.
Unlike social media followers who may scroll past your posts, email subscribers have already shown a level of commitment by signing up for your freebie.
This opt-in signifies trust and interest, making it a valuable resource for nurturing relationships and driving sales.
Step 1: Creating Your Freebie
You should create a freebie that speaks directly to your target customer. The goal is to design something that aligns with the needs and interests of the same audience who would eventually purchase your products.
Experiment and iterate based on what resonates most with your audience.
Heather explains that initially, her “Kindergarten Readiness Checklist” did not perform well. By rebranding it into a “Preschool at Home Starter Kit” which included the checklist along with some additional tips and activities, she saw a significant improvement in sign-ups. Test and tweak until you find the perfect fit!
You can use tools like Canva to design your freebie. It could be a 10-page PDF, an audio recording, or even a short video. What’s important is that it offers value without being too cumbersome in size or scope.
Step 2: Creating Your Cover Graphic
The next step involves creating an eye-catching cover graphic.
Heather uses a tool called MyecoverMaker to transform the first page of her PDF into a visually appealing mock-up, like a spiral-bound notebook. This graphic grabs attention and makes the freebie seem more tangible and valuable.
Step 3: Designing Feature Images
Feature images are essential for advertising your freebie on social media and other platforms.
Simple designs with bold letters proclaiming that the offer is free are best. Use bright and colorful backgrounds to catch attention. Create these images in various formats (typically square ones work best on platforms like Instagram and Facebook).
Step 4: Setting Up Your Email Service Provider (ESP)
Heather strongly recommends ConvertKit for managing your email list, which will soon rebrand to KIT.
In ConvertKit, start by creating a form where users can enter their name and email. Next, set up tags to categorize these new subscribers, and draft a delivery sequence to automate the freebie’s delivery.
For additional engagement, add follow-up emails in your sequence. Don’t forget to test this sequence yourself to ensure everything works smoothly.
Step 5: Building a Landing Page
A high-converting landing page is crucial for capturing email sign-ups. While Heather likes Leadpages for its conversion rates, ConvertKit also offers landing page options.
Whichever tool you choose, ensure your landing page has a compelling headline, a feature image, some bullet points, and a form for email collection.
You may want to consider adding a tripwire offer—a low-priced product offer that appears immediately after someone signs up for the freebie. This is optional but an excellent way to generate immediate revenue.
Step 6: Writing Promotional Copy
Once your freebie and landing pages are ready, it’s time to craft the promotional copy. Focus on being clear, concise, and engaging. Use short sentences, emojis, and keep plenty of white space to make it visually appealing and easy to read. Highlight the word “free” to catch attention.
Step 7: Sharing Your Freebie
After you have everything set up, start promoting your freebie. Heather uses Facebook ads as her primary method of promotion, setting up different ad sets and images to see what performs best.
Additionally, share the freebie on your social media channels and, when appropriate, send it to your existing email list.
Regularly test and refine your process. Heather emphasizes that while getting your first freebie out may feel overwhelming, it becomes easier over time.
The most important thing is to start and iterate based on feedback and engagement.
An email list is crucial for your online business. Start small, experiment, and don’t let perfectionism paralyze you!