How to Create an Epic Lead Magnet (That People Actually Want.)
Hey there, friend! Just a regular Monday over here for us. But not for you. If you’ve ever wondered how to get your audience to practically trip over themselves to join your email list (or give you their contact info), you’re in the right place.
We’re talking lead magnets, babe: those irresistible freebies that lure your dream clients into your world.
Let’s learn how to craft a Lead Magnet that’s as effective as it is memorable.
Let’s get into it!
1. Get to Know Your Audience
Think of your lead magnet as a box of donuts (delicious, right?). If your audience is all about sugar-free keto living, a box of glazed pastries won’t help them. You’ve got to know their limitations, desires, and cravings.
There are a few different ways you can get to know your target audience.
Surveys & polls: Quick feedback from your social media or email list can reveal what your people are struggling with.
Stalking (creep it legal): Hang out in the spaces where your ideal client hangs out (Facebook groups, Reddit, LinkedIn, etc.) to see what they’re complaining about or hoping for.
One-on-one convos: Nothing beats a good old fashioned conversation to dig deep into their needs.
2. Solve a Specific Problem
General freebies (like “10 Business Tips!”) are too vague and get lost in the sea of freebies out there. On the other hand, something super-specific (“10 Instagram Reel Ideas for Handmade Jewelry Sellers”) catches your ideal person’s eye immediately.
Solve a problem with your lead magnet:
Pinpoint your dream client’s biggest headache and promise instant relief.
Keep it short, digestible, and targeted.
If you find yourself adding too much, remember: less is more when it comes to lead magnets.
3. Choose the Right Format
There are literally, countless ways to serve up your solution. The key here is: picking a format that aligns with your strengths and that your audience can easily consume.
Popular lead magnet formats:
Checklists & cheat sheets – For those quick-wins and easy references.
E-books or guides – Perfect if you have lots of valuable insights to share.
Templates & swipe files – Handy done-for-you resources that save people time.
Webinars & workshops – Great for demonstrating expertise in real time and building trust.
Mini challenges or courses – Encourage engagement and let your audience test-drive your methods.
Quizzes – Who doesn’t love discovering which “Tropical Fruit” they are? (Just make sure it ties into your topic!)
4. Brand It, Okay?
Your lead magnet should not only be valuable but should also feel like you. Infuse your brand personality! Whether that’s through a warm virtual hug, a lil humor, or whatever you fancy.
Make it visually appealing:
Use brand colors and fonts (keep it consistent with your website or social media profiles).
Add your logo (If you don’t have one, let’s talk.)
Use images or graphics that align with your vibe.
Write in your brand voice to keep things authentic and memorable.
Remember:
Presentation matters! It shows you care and sets the standard for how they’ll perceive you moving forward.
5. Gate It and Gather Leads
We’re here to collect those shiny new leads. You’ll need a place for people to opt in, and a system to deliver the freebie, right?
How to set it up:
Create an opt-in form or landing page on your website. Keep it short, sweet, and highlight the benefit of your lead magnet.
Automate the delivery. Most email marketing platforms (like Mailchimp, ConvertKit, etc.) let you automate a welcome email with the lead magnet attached or linked.
Test it. Make sure the link works, the email looks good, and that you’ve got your fancy disclaimers in place (looking at you, GDPR).
6. Spread the Word (Because a Secret Freebie Helps Literally No One!)
You’ve made your lead magnet. That’s great! Here’s a high five from Bear to you. Awesome. Now, get out there and tell the world!
Put it front-and-center on your social profiles.
Pin a post, highlight it on Facebook, or drop a permanent link in your Instagram highlights.
Add a banner or pop-up on your website.
Mention it on podcasts, guest blog posts, or interviews.
Tease bits of it on social media to spark interest.
7. Follow Up & Nurture (They’ve Joined the Party. Don’t Ignore Them!)
Once they’re in, you want to keep them. A strong lead magnet is the start of a beautiful relationship, so nurture your new subscribers with follow-up emails that give them value and incite on how you solve problems.
Introduce yourself (or your business) and share your story.
Deliver more value with related tips, resources, or behind-the-scenes glimpses.
Invite engagement by asking a question or offering a free consultation or discovery call.
Do it right, and you’ll not only collect leads but attract the right leads. Attract people who are genuinely excited about what you do. If all of this overwhelms you, I’ve got news for you. Welcome to the club! This club is led by The Bear and we simply do it for you. You sit back, relax, and enjoy a cup of coffee. We’ll take the reins and create something absolutely magical for your audience. It doesn’t have to be two-years from now either. It could be right now.
In Conclusion…
To create a lead magnet people actually want, start by really understanding your audience’s specific pain points. Then, offer a narrow, high-value solution that stands out from generic freebies. Choose a format that plays to your strengths—checklists, templates, mini courses, etc.—and brand it in a way that feels like you. Collect leads via a simple opt-in page or form, automate delivering the freebie, and be sure to follow up with engaging emails. Promote it everywhere and keep connecting with new subscribers so you’re building real relationships, not just an email list. If it all feels overwhelming, get help (like from The Bear) so you don’t waste time or miss out on potential dream clients.
