Growing your email list doesn’t have to be hard—or expensive. As a small business, you already interact with potential subscribers every day. Here are some smart, creative, and often-overlooked ways to collect more emails—from the most common to the most surprising.

​
Most Common Sources (Start Here)

1. Your Website
  • Add a prominent email signup form to your homepage, footer, or as a popup.
  • Offer an incentive like 10% off their first order or a free guide to entice signups.
2. Instagram Story or Link in Bio
  • Post a story with an exciting offer. Mention subscribers get access to something exclusive.
    • If you’d like us to create a free landing page to collect emails please reach out via the support chat.
  • Pin the story to a highlight labeled “💌 Join Our List” so it’s always visible or add the link at the top of your bio.
3. In-Store Signups
  • Use a tablet or printed QR code at your counter with a quick form.
  • Incentivize with something simple:
    “Sign up now & get a free drink upgrade today.”

​
Intermediate Strategies (Often Overlooked)

4. Point-of-Sale (POS) System
  • Many POS systems (like Square or Shopify POS) collect customer emails during checkout.
  • Export these emails and import them into your email marketing tool—just make sure you have consent to send marketing emails.
5. WiFi Email Capture
  • If your store offers guest WiFi, gate it with an email opt-in.
  • Tools like Purple WiFi or Zenreach can help you do this easily.
6. Past Customers
  • Review order histories and invoices for past email addresses.
  • Reach out with a simple:
    “We’re starting a monthly insider list—want in?”
    Include a one-click opt-in link.
7. Online Booking or Appointments
  • If customers book appointments online, add a checkbox:
    “Yes, I want to receive updates and offers.”

​
Creative & Niche Tactics (That Actually Work)

8. Run a Giveaway
  • Partner with a complementary business (e.g., coffee shop + yoga studio).
  • Ask for an email to enter:
    “Win a $50 gift card - enter with your email here!”
9. Use Receipts or Packaging
  • Add a QR code to receipts or product packaging that links to a signup form.
  • Include a message like: “💌 Love this? Join our insider club for perks & updates!”
10. Host an Event or Class
  • Collect emails from RSVPs and sign-ins at the event.
  • Mention they’ll receive a recap, discount, or special follow-up.

​
Quick Reminders

  • Always get consent before sending marketing emails.
  • Use double opt-in if required by law in your region.

​
Pro Tip: Keep It Simple

Make your offer clear. “Get access to exclusive content,” “Get 10% off,” or “Be the first to know” works way better than “Subscribe to our newsletter.”