The Truth About Email Marketing for Bloggers (And What Actually Works)

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If you’ve ever felt like email marketing is dead, or like you need a huge email list to really dig into email marketing – you’re not alone. But the truth is that you can start utilizing your email list with just a few people on it – and in fact, you should! This episode of the Ultimate Blog Podcast is the final part of our email series. Amy is here to bust some common myths and share what’s actually working when it comes to email marketing for bloggers.

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to revive your email strategy, this episode is packed with simple, realistic tips to help you make email work for you (without feeling overwhelmed).

Let’s look at the truth about email marketing for bloggers.

Why Email Marketing for Bloggers Still Matters

If you’re creating content online – whether that’s on a blog, social media, or both – you need an email list. It doesn’t matter if you have ten followers or ten thousand. You own your email list, unlike your social media audience. That means you’re not at the mercy of changing algorithms or platforms disappearing overnight.

And yes, people still check their email. The key is showing up with emails that are valuable and engaging.

Myths About Email Marketing for Bloggers

Myth #1: You Need a Big List to Be Successful

Truth: A small, engaged list is better than a big, inactive one.

If you have 20 subscribers and two people buy something, that’s a 10% conversion rate. That’s more important than the vanity metric of your list size. If you have 200 subscribers and no one buys anything, the size of your list isn’t helping your business at all.

So instead of focusing on the size of your list, focus on:

• How engaged your readers are
• How often they open your emails
• Whether they click on your links
• Whether they take action

Your email list should feel like a community. And you are the only person who knows how many people are on it – so ditch the comparison game and focus on making real connections.

Myth #2: You Need Fancy Funnels to Get Started

Truth: You just need a simple welcome sequence.

Keep it simple. A basic welcome sequence (1–3 emails) is plenty when you’re getting started. Use this sequence to:

• Introduce yourself and your blog
• Let subscribers know what they can expect
• Invite them to reply and share more about themselves

You can start small with your welcome sequence, get consistent, and build as you grow.

Myth #3: Email Is Dead or Annoying

Truth: Email is alive and well, and it’s still one of the best ways to connect with your audience.

If someone signs up for your list, they want to hear from you. Don’t be afraid to show up in their inbox. Just make sure you’re sending them content that’s helpful, relevant, and aligned with what they signed up for. If you’re delivering value, your subscribers will look forward to hearing from you.

What Actually Works in Email Marketing for Bloggers

Now that we’ve busted the myths, let’s talk about the strategies that actually move the needle.

1. Show Up Consistently

You don’t need to email every day. Just choose a frequency that works for you and stick with it. Whether that’s weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, your readers will appreciate knowing when to expect your emails.

And if it’s been a while since you emailed your list? No problem. Reintroduce yourself and give them a chance to opt out. 

2. Think Long-Term

Your email list isn’t just a quick-win tool. It’s a long-term relationship. Think about how you can serve your audience over time, and don’t stress if someone doesn’t click or buy right away.

3. Write Like a Human

Yes, AI tools like ChatGPT are helpful, but your readers want to hear from you. Don’t just copy and paste robot-written emails. Speak to your audience like you’re having a real conversation with them.

4. Be Generous

Your blog is already full of amazing free content, so don’t be afraid to repurpose it in your emails. And email is a great place to go deeper than you might on your blog or social media. Share behind-the-scenes stories, updates, or even struggles your audience can relate to. The sales will come naturally once you’ve built trust!

Grab Our Free Guide to Get More Email Signups

You don’t need a big list or fancy tools to start utilizing and engaging your email list. You just need consistency and a plan. Email marketing is a long game, and you’ll keep building as you grow your list. Don’t wait for a specific number on your list or a certain amount of time to pass – start engaging your list now.

Want help getting started? Grab our free guide: Your First 500 Subscribers. It’s a simple, encouraging guide to help you grow your email list with purpose.

In this episode, we covered: 

• Why email marketing for bloggers still matters
• Why you don’t need a big email list to be successful
• Why a simple email funnel is enough, especially when you’re just starting out
• How email can connect with your audience effectively
• What “showing up consistently” really means

Links and resources mentioned in this episode:

• Grab our free guide, Your First 500 Subscribers: A Simple Guide to Growing Your List with Purpose
• Check out last week’s episode on 3 easy ways to get more email signups this month!

We hope you loved this episode on what works in email marketing for bloggers! Please leave us a comment and let us know your biggest takeaway from this episode!