25 Best Lead Magnet Ideas and Examples To Generate More Leads & Sales

25-Best-Lead-Magnet-Ideas-and-Examples-to-Generate-More-Leads-&-Sales

25 Best Lead Magnet Ideas and Examples to Generate More Leads & Sales

Are you struggling to find more potential customers for your business? Let's have a chat about something called "lead magnets" – a super important part of getting more people interested in what you offer.

In today's article, I'll explain what lead magnets are and how you can pick the best one to get more people interested in what you have to offer.

I'll also share a list of 25 lead magnet ideas and examples that you can use to get more people excited about your email marketing.

But before we dive in, let's start with the basics.

Editor: Do you want to attract a bunch of new customers and grow your email list fast? Check out how the GetResponse conversion funnel can make it happen in no time.

What exactly is a lead magnet?

A lead magnet is like a free gift that you give to people who visit your website. It's designed to catch their attention and convince them to share their contact info with you – usually, their email and name.

Lead magnets are also known by other names like sign-up bonuses, special offers, content upgrades, freebies, and more.

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Lead Magnets Sej SEO Guide

Why Do Lead Magnets Matter?

You know how when you visit a website, sometimes those annoying pop-up ads or forms appear? They usually don't offer anything cool or interesting, so most of us just close them without thinking twice.

Think about the forms you see on websites. How many times do you actually sign up? If there's nothing special offered, not a lot, right?

That's why smart marketers came up with the idea of using lead magnets. It's like a friendly trade – you get something cool (like a helpful article) and in return, they get your email.

Lead magnets that are eye-catching, interesting, and related to what you like are super important if you want to get more people interested in your stuff. This is especially true if you use special marketing funnel.

Also, think about where you put these cool things you're offering. It's best to put them on pages that are all about getting people to sign up. But if you can't do that, your main page will work too.

Editor's note: Curious about the best things to offer? Check out our new report: The Best Lead Magnets for Lead Generation. It's all about getting awesome stuff for awesome sign-ups!

25 Awesome lead magnets ideas and examples

1. Learn in Bits Email Course

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Want to learn something awesome? Our email course is like getting mini lessons delivered right to your inbox. Instead of overwhelming you with all the info at once, we'll send you bite-sized lessons over time. You'll get to know us better and learn cool stuff!

Example: Imagine you're learning how to draw super cool cartoons. We'll send you a new drawing trick in every email! Check out the email course by Wistia for inspiration.

So, why is this a great idea for a lead magnet?

Email courses are like having a treasure box of knowledge delivered to you bit by bit. You'll see our emails often, and that helps us become buddies. It's a fun way to build a cool relationship with you!

You can find more awesome ideas like this in the GetResponse resources. Ready to dive in?

2. Awesome Calendar or Planner

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Hey, do you love planning and staying organized? Our super cool calendars and planners are like your secret weapon for the year ahead. Imagine getting your hands on one right when the new year starts!

It's that time when everyone's buzzing with excitement, making plans for all the fun things they want to do.

And guess what? This is your chance to shine and get tons of high-fives in return! 😄

Imagine creating a calendar that matches what you're all about (like a gardening calendar with planting tips if you're into farming). And guess what? You can get it by simply sharing your email address.

And here's the super cool part: If you make it printable, they can stick it on their wall! Your logo will be like their friendly desktop buddy for the whole year.

And guess what? If you're planning to send awesome emails later, they'll already know you because of that logo they see every single day.

Check out our example of a retail calendar we made. We didn't use it as the lead magnet, but hey, it totally could have been – and we're pretty sure it would have rocked! 😊

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To sum it up, why is this an awesome lead magnet?

Well, templates and planners are like time-saving superheroes for marketers. And let's be honest, we're always short on time, which makes these planners super valuable.

3. Infographic

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Hey there, ready for something cool? We're talking about infographics – they're like information superheroes that are both fun and helpful.

A lot of people love them because they can give you all the important info about a topic in a way that's easy to understand.

And guess what? They're really popular on social media and websites too.

But hey, there's a little thing you should know about infographics.

Some of them don't stick around for too long. That's not a bad thing, especially if you're talking about something specific, like a special event or a certain season.

On the other hand, if you want an infographic that keeps on giving, you've got a trick up your sleeve.

Wanna know how?

Look at the stuff you've already shared. Find out which posts or videos got the most likes and views throughout the year.

Chances are, you'll find some real gems that deserve a second life – as infographics!

But before you start, check if there's something similar out there. If there is, don't worry. Just make sure yours is even better.

Don't have awesome content yet?

No worries, friend. Jump over to question and answer sites like Quora.

They're like treasure troves of questions and answers about all sorts of things.

Find the category that matches your thing, and see which questions are getting lots of attention.

Pick a cool topic, gather up the best answers, and ta-da! You've got yourself a super cool infographic.

And guess what? There are tools like Ahrefs that can help you find super popular infographics from the past. That'll give you some awesome ideas!

So go on, create something amazing and share-worthy! 🚀

To sum it up, why is this an awesome lead magnet?

Infographics are like a blast of fun and information all rolled into one. Your friends out there won't need to spend a lot of time or energy to understand them. And guess what? You can make them pretty easily using cool templates you can find on the internet. So, get ready to impress! 🎉

4. Spreadsheet

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Hey, let's talk about something super useful – spreadsheets! They're not just for numbers, you know. They're like magical tools that lots of people love, especially in certain fields.

Think about online marketers or bloggers who talk about money stuff. They use spreadsheets to make their work awesome.

And here's the cool part: lots of folks need those same kinds of spreadsheets. So, all these smart bloggers and marketers just share what they've made with everyone else!

And guess what? You don't need to be a wizard to use them. Some are simple, like calendars with different rows for different jobs. Others might have fancy tricks and tips explained.

These are like superhero spreadsheets because most folks can't make them on their own.

And you know what's cool? When you see someone put lots of brainpower into these, you know they're worth trading your email address for. It's like getting a super deal!

And guess what? These spreadsheets can supercharge your email list.

Just put them behind a sign-up button and show them on a "thanks for joining" page or message.

It's as easy as that! 🙂

Look at this example page. Instead of giving an email, you just need to share the resource to get it.

So, why is this a top-notch lead magnet?

Spreadsheets are like templates and planners – they save you time. The harder the job your spreadsheet tackles, the more folks will want it. And guess what? They'll trade their email for it without a second thought.

5. Ebooks, guides, and whitepapers

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Hey, guess what? Some folks still love reading longer stuff.

Ebooks, guides, and whitepapers – they're like a treasure trove of knowledge and can help you build your email list even faster.

Sure, making these can take a bit of time, or you might need some fancy tools (I use InDesign), but guess what? They stick around for a good while.

Ebooks are like special gems. People think they're super valuable, way more than a quick infographic or cheat sheet.

And you know what some smart marketers do? They say their guide is worth a bunch of money, but they're giving it away for free – just for your email.

But hey, not all ebooks need to be huge. I've seen some short guides and whitepapers that aren't all that helpful.

But here's the deal – that's not the way to go.

You should always put awesome stuff in your lead magnet. You want your new friends to be super happy with what they get.

If they're not, you might see lots of people leaving your list. That's not good for keeping your emails safe and sound.

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See that picture up there? It's from a study we did. Some emails get lots of love, but also more folks saying "bye-bye." Not what we want, right?

Here's something to think about: Who signs up and then quickly leaves?

Besides your competition, it's probably people who didn't like what they got in the welcome message.

So, why is this an awesome lead magnet?

Lots of people prefer getting one cool ebook instead of hunting through lots of blogs. Ebooks are like treasure maps – full of valuable stuff and organized just right. 📚

6. A cheat sheet or list

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Hey there, let's talk about something super useful – cheat sheets and lists. They're like magic tools that can help you out, especially if you've been in the business for a while.

You know, with more time comes more smarts – theoretically, at least!

There's stuff you know that's like hidden gold for newbies in the field. So, why not take your years of awesome experience and turn them into a cool downloadable cheat sheet or list?

Here's a neat trick: some folks love shorter stuff like cheat sheets more than big ebooks.

They're busy and need quick tips. Something they can read fast and use to make their work better ASAP.

It's a total win-win situation.

Making a cheat sheet won't take forever – you already have the smarts. Just put them in order and bam, you're good to go.

Plus, you'll get subscribers who really use your stuff, not just download and forget about it.

And isn't that what we all want?

The cool part is that lists work in any field.

You could create lists for things like:

  • Yummy recipes (like gluten-free treats or picnic goodies)
  • Handy tools (think marketing tricks or freebies)
  • Super useful resources (for specific topics or customers)
  • Quick workouts (for travel or home workouts)
  • Awesome looks (like vacation clothes or business trip outfits)

See, any of these ideas could become a lead magnet that brings you lots of new email buddies.

So, why is this such a cool lead magnet?

It's all about solving problems and saving time for your friends. If your cheat sheet or list does that, you're winning! 🚀

7. Report

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Hey, here's a cool idea: what if you could offer your readers something even bigger and better than an ebook?

Enter the scene: the mighty report.

Reports can work magic for your lead game. They put you in a special league. If they're based on a big study or have famous research buddies, your brand starts to shine like an expert in the field.

Here's the deal though – they take time and resources. You won't whip one up in a day.

But hey, if you're into digging up data or can run a survey that gets tons of replies fast, you're in luck!

If you have enough time and juice, go for it. Run a survey, collect data, and create an awesome report.

And guess what? If it's great, you'll get tons of attention from other cool sites. Plus, your email list will get a nice boost.

From my own experience, I can tell you they're like personal growth power-ups.

While diving into the data, you'll learn loads and get heaps of ideas for future stuff you can do.

So, why is this such a hot lead magnet?

Folks usually see reports as super valuable – even more than regular ebooks or guides. Share unique data and cool insights, and you've got yourself an ace lead magnet! 🌟

8. Consultation

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Let's talk real talk: even in our digital world, people connect with people.

Especially for big decisions (the ones that need time or money), folks want to chat before they make a move.

This is a big deal in places like the ASEAN region, where being human makes a huge impact.

So, here's a cool idea: if you're a pro in something – whether you're a one-person business or a bigger deal – offer a 15- or 30-minute chat in return for an email.

Here's why this is super smart.

You start building a relationship right away. You can figure out if this is a potential friend you want to work with, and if they're a good match.

Here's another cool thing: if someone signs up for a chat, they're probably looking to buy – maybe not right now, but soon.

It's way better than tossing messages into the cold unknown!

So, why is this a top-notch lead magnet?

This is like the express lane to building a personal bond and showing off what you know. If you give awesome advice during your chat, lots of folks will want to pay you for even more cool stuff! 💼

9. Video

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Hey there, quick question: do you love snappy and easy content? Like, videos?

Videos are like the cool kids of content. They're awesome for keeping folks engaged and growing your email list.

The cool thing is, you can often watch videos while doing something else – like multitasking champs!

They're not as demanding as other content, which makes them super popular.

Now, not every video needs to be locked behind an email wall, but many can be.

Imagine interviews with super interesting folks, handy tips and how-tos, smart strategies in action, and of course, webinars.

Look around in your field and see which types of videos are making waves. Then, think about offering one in exchange for an email.

And here's a neat trick: give a quick sneak peek or summary for free. That way, your buddies can decide if they want the full deal and join your email crew.

Oh, speaking of videos, I've seen folks use transcripts of videos and podcasts as lead magnets too.

Honestly, not my favorite idea, but I get how they can help grow your list.

I see transcripts as tools for making your content easier to understand and also for getting better search engine rankings.

Imagine some of your peeps use screen readers due to hearing loss. Asking them to give their email for transcripts might not be fair.

So, why are videos a fab lead magnet?

People adore videos, whether it's for learning or just fun. You can even enjoy them while doing other stuff, like folding laundry or heading to work. 🎬

10. Free quote or price estimate

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Hey, do you ever check out different choices before you spend your money? Like, think about stuff like car insurance, mortgages, and loans?

Guess what? Offering free quotes can get you lots of attention, but not everyone will jump onboard – that's just how it is.

Here's the scoop: when you give something, folks often want to give back – it's called "reciprocity." But if they don't know you well and this is their first and maybe last time on your site, they might not feel that pull to give back.

That's where a clever trick comes in. Offer a free quote, but only after they drop their email. Smart, right?

Here's how it goes: they answer a few questions and pick their choices. Just before the quote shows up, you ask for their email.

Some might not love this idea, but as long as you're clear and honest, it's all good.

People get it – giving a quote takes time and work. But they should also get the value they're getting in return.

So, why is this a slick lead magnet?

It's a time-saver for your pals. And if it fits, it can bring in folks who are super interested and ready to go! 🚗

11. Free delivery

Hey there, ever heard that free shipping can be even cooler than coupons? I totally get why.

Lots of folks don't mind spending on stuff, but extra shipping fees? That's a different story.

Surprise shipping costs are the biggest reason people drop their shopping carts, says Statista.

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And here's a secret: some folks (like me) would rather spend a bit more to get free shipping if they can.

So, here's the scoop: if you're running an online store, offering free shipping is like your secret weapon to grow your email crew.

It's like a coupon, but for shipping – a cool way to win folks over without playing with prices.

Don't sweat it if it eats into your profits at first. It's an investment in the long run.

And if you want more action from your buddies, offer free shipping if they spend a certain amount. Or just make it a treat for their first buy.

So, why is this a rocking lead magnet?

Huge shipping fees scare people away from shopping. But if you offer free shipping if they spend a bit more, you can boost their orders and make new pals too! 🚚

12. Coupons and deals

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Heads up, e-commerce folks know this drill:

First-time buyers usually don't bring in the big bucks.

See, you invest to get them to your site, introduce your stuff, and finally convince them to buy. And those costs add up – but often not enough to seal the deal.

That's why many smart online peeps use coupons as their secret weapon.

Coupons give a nudge to get people to take the first step.

But, some worry that giving out coupons right away is a profit pitfall.

True for a short while. But, if you play your cards right, you can turn first-timers into repeat buyers.

Through smart email campaigns, automatic product suggestions, and other clever tricks, you can win them over.

If you're unsure about tossing coupons for emails, try adding a twist.

For example:

Make the coupon only work for a buy over a certain amount.

Or, make it great for their second purchase – that way they're motivated to come back for more.

You can use coupons to snag new pals or to get your current or sleepy customers back in the game.

Just do the math, see if it fits your game plan, and don't stress if first-timer profits aren't sky-high.

Pro Tip: Keep your discount codes working like a charm. Statista says "discount code not working" was why folks ditched their carts in the US in 2017.

By the way, coupons and deals don't only have to be for things you sell yourself.

They can cover all sorts of stuff, even services.

Lots of marketers run websites that share awesome offers for an email.

You buy stuff through their links, get a sweet discount, and they earn a cut.

Take Appsumo, for instance. They're all about killer deals on tools and products. Loads of folks are signing up, thanks to their massive discounts.

So, why are coupons and deals such hot lead magnets?

If your price is your power move, a discount can get you the win. Plus, it might make your customers want more of your awesome stuff! 💸

13. Chance to win something

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Tell me, who doesn't love a little victory dance now and then?

Here's a fun idea: offer a shot at winning something cool. It's a sweet lead magnet move.

But hold up, there are a few things to think about.

First, your prize needs to be A+ and match your audience.

No point giving out free power banks if you're all about fashion, right?

And forget tiny trinkets – your prize should be exciting.

Another thing: make sure folks can actually get their prize.

No matter where they're hanging out, you should be able to send it to them.

Now, here's the trickier part.

Some folks think they're just not lucky. They might skip your chance-to-win deal because of that.

But there's a way around it. Show them the odds are on their side, or tell 'em everyone gets something.

Not many marketers go for this lead magnet idea.

But guess what? I found a site that rocks it.

Look at this: a shot at winning a set of cool marketing books. Perfect if your gang is all about marketing.

Here's the genius part: famous authors' names are right there. It's like leveling up their game!

Even if readers don't know the site yet, they expect email stuff just as awesome as those big-shot authors.

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So, why is this a win-win lead magnet?

People dig wins. Especially when they can snag something awesome – like a set of awesome books! 📚

14. Online events and webinars

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Remember I mentioned videos and webinars earlier? Well, here's a twist – online events and webinars are a bit different and totally awesome.

Videos are cool, but webinars? They're like a chat with buddies.

See, videos are mostly one-way – you watch and learn.

But with webinars, it's like a conversation. The host, the speaker, or a bunch of folks talk about cool stuff.

And guess what? You can score all this knowledge just by sharing your email.

The better the stuff – like a great speaker, juicy topics, or a bunch of smart folks talking – the more peeps will sign up.

At GetResponse, we're big on webinars. We do our own or join forces with others.

Check out our past webinars for proof!

They pull in lots of folks, and it's easy to set up – even with GetResponse.

So, why are webinars a top-notch lead magnet?

They're ace for building bonds and showing off your skills to a crowd, wherever they are.

Hold tight for more on how webinars work! 🎙️

15. Event tickets

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Ready for a super cool lead magnet? How about event tickets?

If you're throwing your own shindig, awesome. Instead of just letting folks in, ask them to sign up and share their email.

What if you're not the event host?

No worries, team up with those who are. Often, partner companies (they pitch in or help spread the word) can score some free tickets.

And guess what? You can use those tickets as your lead magnets!

Loads of event organizers love this trick.

So, why are event tickets a top-notch lead magnet idea?

People love events – think conferences or shows. If your tickets are pricey or hard to come by, you've got yourself a stellar lead magnet! 🎉

16. Free samples

Hey there, e-commerce champs! Want a cool way to grow your email list? Here's the scoop: free samples!

There's a couple of ways to dish them out.

One, add them to your customers' first buy. Two, offer 'em upfront but ask for a bit of cash for shipping.

Sound familiar? It's kinda like what Wish, a speedy-growing e-commerce star, does.

They hand out free stuff – like headphones or phone cases – when folks join their gang and pay for shipping.

Smart, right?

Others do it too. Foundr.com, for instance, handed out a free mag with Sir Richard Branson to anyone who hopped on their mailing list.

And here's the bonus: free samples let folks test your goods.

This is gold if you're launching new stuff and want people to give 'em a spin.

So, why are free samples a genius lead magnet idea?

Not everyone's up for a big buy. Some folks just need a taste to decide. Free samples are like a little try-before-you-buy adventure! 🎁

17. Online tool or web app

Okay, listen up, SaaS whizzes! Here's a neat trick: cook up a free tool for your peeps.

They get to use it – almost fully – for free.

Yep, just share an email, and boom – they're in!

Why's this trick cool? Well, the tool you're giving them should be super useful and something they'll use a lot.

Wait, what's a SaaS? It's like software you use online, not on your device.

Picture this: you're an SEO or online marketing pro. There's this tool called LSIGraph that finds keywords for you. Handy, right?

You can use it free, but there's a catch. You can only do a few searches each day.

Want more? Just drop your email.

Smart, right? This trick works 'cause it gets the serious folks to share their email.

They really need the tool, so they're happy to trade their email for it.

Plus, if they hit the daily limit a lot, they might just go for the paid version.

So, why's this trick a winner for growing your email list?

Free tools that rock can reel in folks and keep 'em coming back! 🔧

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Check out another tool that nails the combo of giving value and grabbing leads.

iconosquare-instagram-audit-tool

I found something fascinating and decided to chat with Olga Rabo from Iconosquare to get her firsthand story about their Instagram audit tool.

Creating new tools can be a smart way to highlight your main offerings.

Iconosquare specializes in top-notch Instagram analytics for brands and businesses. Last year, we had the idea to craft tools that could complement our main services. The Instagram Audit Tool is one of those creations.

Here's how it works: Log in with your Instagram account, and the tool assesses your account using specific criteria like posting frequency, engagement rate, and hashtag usage.

You instantly receive a score reflecting your performance. If you provide your email address, you get a detailed report packed with tips to boost your Instagram game. After completing the audit, there's a "Start your free trial" button, leading to a bunch of extra trials each month, which often transform into paying customers later on.

At the moment, our tool appears on the first page of Google search results for "Instagram audit" and has gathered 102 backlinks from 55 different domains.

How did we spread the word about the tool?

We followed the standard playbook:

  • A blog post on the Iconosquare blog to pair with the tool.
  • Newsletter promotions to our blog subscribers and customers.
  • Sharing it across our social networks.
  • A touch of AdWords and paid social promotion.
  • I also launched it on Product Hunt.

That's pretty much the story.

The tool's success is less about the promotional tactics and more about the fact that the idea was born from user requests. We get tons of emails daily from customers and followers asking us to review their Instagram accounts and offer improvement suggestions. So, why not turn this feedback into a simple solution and a fresh way to attract trial users?

Oh, and I just added another backlink to the list.

All in all, tools like this can be highly effective, not just for expanding your email list, but also for improving your SEO.

In short, why is it a solid lead magnet?

Online tools can be fantastic for gathering leads. If your tool offers real value, users won't hesitate to share their details. And as they use it more, they'll become more familiar with your brand.

18. Case study

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Let's talk about something quite effective – case studies.

They're a powerful tool to showcase why your products or services are outstanding.

Here's the scoop.

Case studies reveal the nitty-gritty – the exact steps and strategies your clients took to achieve impressive outcomes.

Sure, this journey might not have been a breeze, but you're the expert here. You can guide others to success as well.

In simple terms, you're helping potential customers envision desirable results and demonstrating your mastery in achieving them.

Plus, case studies signal that your brand is reliable and appealing.

Top-notch brands wouldn't team up with you and trust your know-how if you didn't give off a trustworthy vibe.

Now, let's talk about using case studies to gather leads.

In my view, in most cases, it's best not to lock case studies behind opt-in forms or paywalls right away.

Asking for an email address too soon might make users hesitate. You still need to build that trust.

But, here's a twist – you can use case studies as a lead magnet by preparing two versions.

One version is a quick summary of the results and tactics that led to those impressive outcomes.

The second version, the one tucked behind a sign-up form, delves into the entire process your team went through. From pinpointing and dissecting the problem to devising tests, considering different scenarios, and ultimately steering the campaign to success.

This way, you get the best of both worlds – a concise case study to inspire potential customers and another version to gather leads.

So, whether you're holding a success story or crafting one, think about creating two versions that can supercharge your email list growth.

In a nutshell, why is this a clever lead magnet idea?

Case studies let you flaunt your skills and the systematic approach you take with clients. If someone downloads them, odds are high they're a seriously interested lead.

19. Quiz

Let's talk about quizzes – those little things that people just can't resist.

Remember when everyone was finding out which Friends character they're most like or which Hogwarts house suits them? It feels like just yesterday, right?

Quizzes are a blast, no doubt. But guess what? They can also be super handy, especially for turbocharging your email list growth.

And hey, polls are no different. They're interactive, informative, and perfect for reeling in leads.

What's cool is that both these tools work across the board, no matter your industry.

Check out Iconosquare (yep, again) as an example. They crafted a quiz to help users gauge their Instagram strategy level.

In a nutshell, quizzes and polls aren't just fun diversions. They're also sneaky ways to supercharge your email list.

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Here's another quiz that's all about putting your Digital IQ to the test!

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In summary, why is this a great example of a lead magnet?

Many individuals enjoy engaging with content, especially interactive quizzes. If you can create a relevant or entertaining quiz, your lead magnet is likely to be successful.

If you're interested in learning more about this type of content upgrade, check out this helpful guide to assessment tools.

20. Swipe file

Here's another lead magnet concept you can explore: swipe files.

While they're commonly associated with online writing, advertising, and marketing, you can adapt them for any writing genre or topic.

Consider collecting headlines, joke and story templates, captivating presentation openings, or design concepts.

For instance, we've curated a swipe file for exceptional welcome emails.

The concept is straightforward:

  • Step 1. Assemble and arrange valuable resources.
  • Step 2. Offer access through a web form.

It's really that simple!

email-swipe-file

In summary, why is this an excellent lead magnet option?

Swipe files serve as effective sources of inspiration and guidance for your users, assisting them in reaching their objectives. The more comprehensive and relevant your swipe file is, the higher the likelihood that people will be eager to download it.

21. Online calculator

I'm a big fan of online calculators. They make things like calculating mortgage rates, car insurance costs, or projected electric bills so much easier, and they provide real value in the process.

I use them regularly, but I rarely come across online calculators used as a way to gather email leads, and that's a missed opportunity.

Online calculators can actually be a really powerful lead magnet and help you quickly expand your email list.

However, not all calculators are suitable for this purpose – they have to offer real value that users are willing to exchange their email addresses for.

Also, keep in mind that Google often provides clever ways to get quick answers without needing to use external calculators. For instance, if you search "200 pounds in PLN," Google instantly provides you with the currency exchange rate.

google-currency-converting-calculator

Sure, if that approach doesn't work, what types of online calculators can actually be successful as lead magnets?

The answer is pretty straightforward: calculators that offer valuable information that's not easily accessible and that people are genuinely interested in.

Bonus points if the calculator adds a touch of enjoyment to the process.

Need an example?

Here's a snapshot of a calculator from a company called Eneco.

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fun-online-calculator-for-lead-generation-example

Sure thing! As explained in this blog post, the company achieved an impressive feat by generating over 1,000 leads in just 6 weeks using their online calculator.

So, what exactly did this calculator do?

It helped users estimate the cost of purchasing a home charger for their electric car.

This example showcases a perfect instance of a successful calculator.

Here's why it worked so well:

  • Timeliness: It arrived at the right moment when electric car interest was on the rise.
  • Relevance: It addressed a common concern among potential electric car buyers – efficient charging.
  • Fun Factor: The calculator kicked off with a couple of light survey questions about preferences, adding a fun touch.
  • Smart Approach: The user's email address was asked for only at the end, after they engaged with the calculator.

Given these factors, I'm not surprised by the positive outcome, and I'm excited to witness more of such effective calculators being used as lead magnets in the future.

In essence, why is it a strong lead magnet idea?

Online calculators, much like other digital tools, can provide substantial value by saving users time and simplifying complex calculations. They prove valuable for lead generation, especially when they offer insights that are otherwise hard to come by.

22. Newsletter

The newsletter itself often goes overlooked as a powerful lead magnet.

We typically approach it the other way around – asking for an email address to deliver the newsletter.

However, if your newsletter is packed with valuable content, it can certainly serve as an effective lead magnet.

The promise of value here is embodied in the newsletter.

Imagine receiving consistent emails, be it weekly or monthly, filled with useful insights and inspiration.

A prime illustration of this concept is the CB Insights newsletter that lands in my inbox every couple of days.

It's brimming with intriguing updates and narratives about diverse startups and tech-related firms.

newsletter-signup-form-cb-insights

It's no secret that GetResponse offers a newsletter that features our weekly blog post series.

Right now, more than 15,000 small business marketers are subscribed – and I genuinely believe they find our content valuable enough to have made the decision to join.

If you're interested in picking up some effective strategies for small business marketing, I'd be truly honored to have you on our mailing list :)

getresponse-blog-newsletter-signup-form

To sum it up, why is it one of the top lead magnet examples?

When your content leaves a strong impression, people will eagerly anticipate your future updates. Fill your newsletter with valuable insights, promote it well, and watch as more leads naturally come your way.

23. Toolkit

Let's talk about another idea: the toolkit.

This concept might sound similar to what we discussed earlier, but I want to emphasize that your lead magnet doesn't have to be limited to just one type of content, like an ebook.

By offering a collection of materials together, you could increase your chances of turning your website visitors into email subscribers.

Take a look at this example.

Here, we have a toolkit – a comprehensive package containing different PDFs and frameworks designed to help you build your own platform.

While this specific illustration doesn't require users to provide their email address to access the files, it's easy to envision how it could work that way.

platform-design-toolkit-lead-magnet

Why bundle all the files together instead of offering them individually?

The reason is simple: you only need to collect the user's email address once.

Although it might be tempting to split the files and present each asset separately, the brand's goal seems to be maximizing the value for potential customers.

By providing all the files in a package, they certainly achieve that.

And if you've had a chance to go through any of these frameworks or files, you'll understand that they can be quite intricate.

If someone finds them a bit challenging to navigate on their own, they'll have a clear point of contact for assistance.

Here's another example, this time from Shopify.

several-free-tools-lead-magnet-ideas

We've also implemented this strategy at GetResponse.

It's the concept behind our resource center, which I've mentioned before.

Users only have to share their email address once, and they can then access all the e-books, reports, infographics, and other materials that we regularly release.

getresponse-free-resources

In summary, why is this an effective lead magnet idea?

What's more valuable than a single tool, guide, or framework? Having a collection of them! However, it's important to note that receiving a large amount of content all at once can be overwhelming for users. To manage this, you might want to monitor their progress or deliver content through an email course instead.

24. Waiting list

Let's break down the waiting list strategy.

Exclusivity has a strong appeal, much like limited edition items or those long lines outside a newly opened club. This desire to be among the first isn't limited to physical products – it applies to digital ones too.

Imagine creating a waiting list for an online course or a new tool, treating it like a tangible item you can touch. It could involve granting limited access to a beta version or introducing a fresh tool for testing within a pilot group.

By making people wait, you cultivate a sense of exclusivity and effectively grow your email list. However, this approach only works if you've already provided something valuable, something you'd typically charge for. In essence, you've gained the trust of your users.

Once trust is established, you can raise the bar and offer something even better. And the idea of having to wait only amplifies its appeal.

waiting-list-online-conference

In a nutshell, why is this strategy effective as a lead magnet?

People are drawn to being early adopters; it adds a certain status. If you're offering something truly valuable, like an event ticket or access to an incredible tool, you can be sure that folks will eagerly queue up to give it a try.

25. Slide decks and presentation notes

Let's put it in simple terms: why is this a great lead magnet idea?

Most marketers share their presentation slides on platforms like Slideshare, making them easily accessible to their audience.

This helps attendees revisit the content and benefits those who stumble upon it during online searches.

But here's the twist: why not offer your slides or presentation notes as a lead magnet?

Especially the notes can be a goldmine for those who missed your presentation in person.

I mean, I can't attend every conference around the globe, so getting those presentation notes with helpful links in exchange for my email? Count me in!

searchmetrics-presentation-download-webform

I'm pretty sure your target audience would agree, especially if your presentations offer valuable insights.

And hey, if you're not sold on the idea for a solo marketer, think about using it for an online conference or past event you've organized.

Sharing slides and presentation notes from previous occasions can help you gather leads, and then you can entice them to sign up for your upcoming event.

To sum it up, why is this a solid lead magnet concept?

Whether it's webinars or regular events you're hosting, slide decks can be a real asset for your audience. Whoever downloads these is likely a promising lead.

Now, let's wrap up this piece by delving into the process of choosing the right lead magnet for your campaign.

How to choose a good lead magnet for your campaign?

When it comes to generating leads and growing your email list, there's no shortage of strategies.

In a previous article, we outlined nearly fifty ideas for building your mailing list.

But here's the catch: just any old offer won't cut it. Your lead magnet or opt-in incentive needs to be a snug fit for your campaign.

Remember, lead magnets are more than just tools to snag your prospect's contact details. They're the beginning of a relationship.

When people download your lead magnet, they should come away feeling great about it. If they think their information isn't worth the download, no amount of lead nurturing can turn the tide.

That's why, before you settle on a content upgrade, take a moment to address these four crucial questions:

Choosing the Perfect Lead Magnet: 4 Key Questions

When picking a lead magnet, it's crucial to keep your business goals in mind. While the main purpose is to generate leads, the type of leads matters. Are you after a large number of subscribers, even if only a few are genuinely interested? Or do you want a smaller group of highly qualified leads in a specific niche?

Does the lead magnet align with my business goal?

Seems odd, but your lead magnet should sync with your goals. For instance, a guide for higher education institutions may gather fewer subscribers than one helping marketers boost their email stats. However, the former could attract more qualified leads aligned with your target audience.

Is the lead magnet engaging and intriguing?

Your lead magnet should grab attention and hold interest, preventing visitors from clicking away. Match it with the content on the promoting page. If your page is about Halloween party snacks, offer extra recipes or DIY decoration ideas to entice visitors.

Is the lead magnet relevant to them?

Will your offering captivate a CMO and a student researching for their thesis equally? Likely not. While your content may appeal to diverse audiences, aim to make it relevant to the page it's on. For instance, if your page discusses home workouts, a suitable content upgrade could be a list of healthy breakfast recipes.

Discover More Lead Magnet Ideas and Get Creative

I've covered the essence of lead magnets and shared 25 fantastic ideas you can incorporate into your campaigns.

You might be tempted to conduct another Google search, where you'll likely find posts boasting over 100 giveaway or opt-in ideas. However, here's a fresh approach: take a moment to observe your surroundings.

Glance at your desk, the wall beside you, your digital tools like Slack and Google Keep, and even your email inbox. Chances are, you've accumulated a trove of shortcuts, links, tips, and other productivity enhancers.

Recognize any familiar bells ringing?

Now, consider if these resources could be turned into enticing lead magnets. Do they hold value for your customers, making their lives more efficient or enjoyable?

If the answer is yes, I encourage you to take two steps:

Firstly, employ these resources to bolster your email list growth. Harness their potential as engaging lead magnets.

Secondly, as a personal request, share your choice in the comments below. Let us know what innovative lead magnet you've chosen to amplify your campaigns. Your insights could inspire others in the community.

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