“My First List Building Funnel Was a Flop”
When I first set out to build my list as a new affiliate, I was excited. I had a couple of tools I believed in, I signed up for the affiliate programs, and I created what I thought was a solid little setup. A landing page. A catchy headline. A discount offer. I figured I had everything I needed to launch my first list building funnel.
The idea was simple: get people to sign up, then send them affiliate offers. But here’s what actually happened…
A few people signed up. I felt good. I waited for sales to roll in. And then… nothing.
No clicks. No replies. No one bought a thing.
It took me a while to realize the problem wasn’t my funnel software or the size of my email list. The real issue was how I built that first list building funnel. I focused on the wrong things. I tried to attract anyone, not the right people. And I made the classic mistake of leading with a discount instead of value.
If this sounds familiar, stick with me. I’m going to walk you through a better way to build a list building funnel that attracts the right people, gets them to stick around, and turns them into buyers.
Why Most List Building Funnels Don’t Convert
If your list building funnel isn’t working, chances are you’re focusing on clicks instead of connections. You might be offering a freebie that looks nice, but doesn’t solve a real problem. Or maybe you’re giving away discounts that only attract freebie hunters who will never open another email.
The big mistake? Thinking your funnel is just a way to collect emails.
Your list building funnel is more than that. It’s the start of a relationship. And if your lead magnet doesn’t set the tone right away, your follow-up emails won’t matter.
What to Do Instead: Build With Value First
Let’s flip the script. Instead of using your funnel to give away discounts, use it to solve problems.
If you’re promoting a tool like Systeme.io, show people how to get a win with it. Create a free checklist, PDF, or video that helps them set something up or avoid a common mistake.
Here’s an example that worked for me:
“How to Set Up Your First Systeme.io List Building Funnel in 15 Minutes”
Simple. Useful. And it attracts the kind of people who want help, not just handouts.
When someone signs up for that, I know they’re serious about building their business. That means they’re more likely to pay attention, click through, and eventually buy the tools and offers I recommend.
How to Structure a High-Converting List Building Funnel
Here’s a simple framework you can follow using Systeme.io or any other platform.
1. Solve One Clear Problem
Your lead magnet should answer a question or fix a pain point. Don’t try to cover too much. One problem, one result. For example, help someone build their first landing page or write their first email.
2. Keep the Sign-Up Page Focused
Don’t overload your landing page with features. Use a clear headline that speaks to the result. Something like,
“Build Your First List Building Funnel Today – No Tech Skills Needed”
Add one or two bullets to explain the benefit. Then, keep the form simple.
3. Use a Helpful Follow-Up Series
After someone opts in, follow up with a few emails that add more value. Share a tip. Recommend a tool. Offer a short tutorial. And then ease into your affiliate offer by showing how it helps.
4. Use Your Thank You Page Wisely
The thank you page is a great chance to build trust fast. Invite your subscriber to watch a bonus video, join a free group, or take a next step. Keep it focused on helping them succeed with their list building funnel.
Why This Works Better
This kind of funnel does a few important things.
It attracts the right people.
It builds trust by being helpful first.
It sets the tone for a strong relationship.
That’s how you create an email list that clicks, replies, and buys. Not because you gave them a discount, but because you helped them solve a real problem.
What About Traffic?
A great funnel means nothing without visitors. So how do you get people into your list building funnel?
Start with content. Write blog posts, tutorials, or how-to guides that rank for keywords people are actually searching for. If you’re using Systeme.io, that might include terms like “how to build a funnel,” “email automation tutorial,” or “best funnel builder for beginners.”
Then link to your funnel naturally in the content. Give people a reason to take the next step.
You can also share your lead magnet in Facebook groups, Reddit threads, or YouTube comments (if relevant and allowed). The goal is to meet people where they already are, and invite them into your world.
Final Thoughts
Your list building funnel isn’t just a form and a freebie. It’s your chance to connect with people who actually want what you’re offering. When you lead with value, you’ll attract subscribers who stick around, trust you, and click your links.
It took me a few failed attempts to learn this lesson. But once I made that shift, my emails got more replies. My affiliate links got more clicks. And I finally felt like I was building something real.
If your funnel isn’t converting yet, don’t give up. Just look at where you can add more value. You don’t need more bells and whistles. You need to help people get a win. That’s what turns a simple sign-up into a loyal subscriber.
Now go build a list building funnel that works for you and your future subscribers.
