If you're just getting started with affiliate marketing and building your first funnel, it can be tempting to throw in a discount as your lead magnet. A little “10% off” or “free bonus” might seem like the fastest way to grab emails. But that shortcut often leads to the wrong kind of list.
Discounts attract people who want deals. That sounds fine at first. But most of them only want the deal. They sign up, grab it, and disappear. They don’t open your emails, and they’re not really interested in what you have to say.
That’s not the kind of list you want to build.
Let’s talk about a better option.
Lead with something helpful. Give them real value.
When you offer a lead magnet that teaches something useful, you start your list with people who are curious and looking to learn. These are the folks who will actually open your emails and trust your advice when you recommend something.
Here’s why education wins:
- It brings in serious people. Not deal seekers. These are the ones who want solutions, not just savings.
- It shows you know what you’re doing. A helpful guide or checklist proves your value right away.
- It sets up your follow-up emails. When someone grabs your freebie, it gives you a reason to keep talking with them. Each message builds trust.
- It makes you stand out. Most beginner affiliates go straight to discounts. You’ll be the one who actually helps from the start.
Let’s say you're promoting a page builder or email platform. Instead of offering a coupon or promo, offer something like:
“Download: The Beginner's 5-Step Guide to Building a Funnel That Works”
Now your lead magnet becomes the start of a real relationship. They get a quick win, and you get a subscriber who sees you as someone worth listening to.
When you focus on helping first, your funnel becomes more than just a list builder. It becomes the start of a business that grows on trust and value.
Are you building your first lead magnet now? Thinking about switching from discounts to something more helpful?
I’d love to hear what you’re working on. Drop your thoughts below.
