How to Build an Email List From Scratch in 2025

Building an email list is the single most important thing you can do for your online business. Here’s exactly how to do it.

Why You Need an Email List

Social media followers can disappear overnight. Your email list? That’s yours forever.

Step 1: Choose Your Email Platform

Start with a free plan from ConvertKit or Mailchimp. Don’t overthink this – you can always switch later.

Step 2: Create a Lead Magnet

Give people a reason to subscribe. This could be:

• A free PDF guide
• A checklist
• A mini email course
• A discount code Step

Step 3: Build a Landing Page

Create a simple page that explains what you’re offering and has a signup form. Use your email platform’s built-in landing page builder.

Step 4: Drive Traffic

Now you need to get people to that landing page:

• Share on social media
• Add signup forms to your blog
• Guest post on other sites
• Run small ads (optional)

Step 5: Nurture Your Subscribers

Don’t just collect emails – actually engage with your list. Send valuable content every week.

The Bottom Line

Building an email list takes time, but it’s worth it. Start today with just one subscriber – yours.