5 Powerful Reasons Why Solopreneurs Must Build an Email List
Did you know email marketing ROI is $36 for Every $1 Spent?!
That’s 3,600% ROI—higher than social media, paid ads, or almost any other marketing channel.
"What does that mean for me? How does this apply to my business? Isn’t email outdated?"
Let’s be real—I check my email before I even touch social media. That means whatever promotions, newsletters, or updates land in my inbox have my attention before I start scrolling and getting lost on Instagram or TikTok.
So, if you’re wondering…
"Do I need an email list if I’m already on social media?"
The answer? Yes. A thousand times, yes.
Here’s why:
Social media is a great lead generation tool, but it’s rented space. Algorithms change, reach fluctuates, technology becomes unreliable, and accounts can be suspended. However, social media becomes even more powerful when strategically combined with email marketing!
An email list is an asset you OWN. No algorithm decides who sees your content.
Email marketing converts better. Studies show emails have higher engagement and sales conversion rates than any other platform.
If you're a solopreneur juggling content creation, marketing, sales, and administrative duties, an email list is your secret weapon for automating growth, building relationships, and making sales on autopilot.
(If your email list is rather stale or non-existent, no judgment. Start building one today! Scroll down for my top 3 email marketing software recommendations!)
Let’s break it down 5 powerful reasons you need an email list ASAP:
1. Direct & Personalized Connection with Your Audience
Your Email List = Your VIP Club
Ever feel like you're talking to crickets on social media? Your email list fixes that.
With email, you get:
No algorithm blocking your reach. Your message lands directly in their inbox.
100% control over how and when you communicate. No guessing games.
More personal, 1-on-1 connections with your audience.
When someone gives you their email, they’re saying:
"I like your content, I trust your expertise, and I want to hear more from you."
That’s huge! Instead of hoping your posts get seen on Instagram, you’re speaking directly to people who actually want to hear from you.
Social media is like a loud, crowded networking event. Email? That’s a direct, focused conversation with your ideal audience.
2. Boost Your Brand Visibility & Stay Top of Mind
Be the First Person They Think of When They Need Your Service
Want to make sure people remember your brand? Regular emails keep you top of mind.
Why this matters:
When they’re ready to buy, you’re the first person they think of.
Unlike social media posts that disappear in hours, emails sit in inboxes, waiting to be opened.
Every email strengthens brand trust and authority.
It’s too easy to get lost in the noise on social media. Constant distractions, shifting algorithms, new trends—keeping up is exhausting.
Your email list, though? That’s an intimate coffee date with your audience. It’s steady, reliable, and doesn’t require fighting an algorithm to be seen.
3. Drive Sales & Revenue (Because the Money is in the List!)
Email Marketing = Higher Conversions
"But can an email list really make me money?"
Absolutely. And here’s why:
People on your list are already interested. They signed up because they WANT to hear from you.
Emails have higher engagement and ROI rates than social media posts.
You can send exclusive offers & promotions that encourage action.
Studies show email converts 40x better than Facebook and Twitter combined.
You can use your email list to:
Promote new products or services
Share special discounts or early access deals
Send valuable content that nurtures trust and turns leads into paying customers
Instead of waiting for people to maybe see your post on Instagram, you’re delivering your offer straight to their inbox.
4. Enhance Customer Loyalty & Build Long-Term Relationships
Turn Subscribers Into Superfans
Customers don’t just buy from businesses—they buy from people they trust.
Your email list is the perfect place to build that trust.
Every email you send is like watering the seeds of loyalty. And over time? Those seeds grow into strong, lasting relationships.
It’s 5X cheaper to keep an existing customer than to acquire a new one.
That means staying in touch with your list isn’t just smart—it’s profitable.
Consistent, valuable emails keep your audience engaged, educated, and excited about your brand.
5. A Cost-Effective Marketing Strategy That Works (Even on a Budget!)
Stretch Your Marketing Dollars Further
Running ads? Hiring a social media manager? Spending hours creating content? That gets expensive—fast.
Meanwhile, email marketing is one of the most cost-effective strategies available.
Here’s why:
No need to pay for reach like social media ads.
Automation lets you set up campaigns once and let them work for you.
Most email platforms offer affordable plans (or even free options).
Sorry if I sound like a broken record, but if you’re looking for the best ROI on your time and money, email marketing is it.
Ready to Build Your Email List? Here’s How to Get Started
"Okay, I get it… but what email software should I use?" Here are my top beginner-friendly recommendations:
1. Squarespace Email
Best for: Squarespace users who want a built-in email solution
Free trial: Send up to three campaigns, no matter how many subscribers.
Why I love it: Affordable, simple, and beautifully designed templates, seamless integration with my blog and website.
2. Flodesk
Best for: Creatives who want stunning email templates and have simple workflows
Flat pricing: $38/month (no price hikes as your list grows!)
Why I love it: Easy automation, gorgeous templates & drag-and-drop simplicity
3. MailerLite
Best for: Budget-conscious solopreneurs
Generous free plan: Up to 12,000 FREE subscribers
Why I love it: User-friendly, powerful automation, and great for beginners
Other great options include ConvertKit (now Kit), AWeber, and ActiveCampaign. There are many options, but remember to pick a tool that fits your style and business needs.
Final Thoughts: Your Email List = Your Business’s Superpower
If you take one thing away from this post, let it be this:
Your email list is an asset you control. It’s the most powerful tool for building relationships, driving sales, and growing a sustainable business.
So, are you ready to start? Pick an email platform, create an opt-in, and start building your list today.
And while you’re at it… go ahead and join my list, too (shameless plug, I know).
I’d love to hear your feedback. Please feel free to share about your marketing journey!
