Are sign-ups to your opt-in form dwindling?

If you’ve had the same opt-in form on your website for over a year then it’s probably time to freshen it up. If you want to consistently grow your list you’ll have to monitor your opt-in form and tweak it to increase your opt-in rate.

Here are a few signs that your opt-in is out of date… 

Too many fields

Everyone is in a hurry and no one has the time to fill in 5 fields on a form. Keep your opt-in form simple. Name and email, nothing else. Once people sign up you can learn more information from them and segment.

Not visible

Can people easily find your opt-in form? It should be above the fold on your website and stand out. People scan and if it doesn’t pop out at them then they aren’t going to opt-in.

Not targeted

If your free opt-in isn’t targeted correctly then no one is going to sign up. If you are selling a fitness program and have an opt-in for your top travel tips then you aren’t going to get the right people on your list. This is a huge waste of your time and your subscribers.

Generic subscribe button

Does your sign up button say “subscribe”, or “sign up”? If you, so you are missing out on opt-ins. Use something catchy that will make them want to click on the button such as “I want it now it!”

Calling your email list a newsletter

I don’t want to hurt your feelings, but no one wants to read your newsletter. They want useful information that solves their problems. If you’re still calling it a newsletter, you’ll want to change that right away to something more descriptive. For example, “Don’t miss out on exclusive content for members only”.

You don’t have a lead magnet

No one is going to sign up to your email list without getting something in return. In fact, it’s more difficult than ever to get someone to give out their email address. You have to come up with something they can’t resist, your very best offer.

Copy isn’t appealing

Your copy is just as important as the rest of the sign-up form. You have to tell them why it’s beneficial for them to sign up and exactly what they get when they do. And make sure you follow through on your promises. 

I hope these tips help you update your opt-in form so you can increase your subscriber rate. If you are looking for an easy to use WordPress plugin to help you create high-converting opt-in forms then try out Bloom by Elegant Themes. You can see it in action all over my website.