One creative strategy I used to attract subscribers without relying on traditional opt-in forms was through interactive quizzes. Instead of a basic “subscribe” prompt, we created a fun, value-driven quiz that aligned with the audience’s interests. For example, for a home improvement client, we launched a “What’s Your Home’s Renovation Style?” quiz. After users completed the quiz, they were prompted to enter their email to get detailed results and personalized renovation tips.
This method worked because it offered immediate value and made the opt-in feel like a natural part of the process. Engagement skyrocketed compared to traditional forms, and we saw a significant boost in subscribers—since people were excited to get personalized recommendations.
Interactive content is a great way to make the sign-up process more engaging while delivering value upfront.
Andrew Lee Jenkins, Owner, Andrew Lee Jenkins
In our tech company, instead of simply requesting users to subscribe, we decided to use user-generated content to drive subscriptions. We initiated a campaign asking users to share their experience with our product in a creative way, such as a short video or a unique photo, on their social media platforms. The only requirement was to tag our company and use our custom hashtag. Users who did so were automatically subscribed to our service. This not only drove subscriptions but also increased our online visibility and user engagement.
Abid Salah, Co-founder & CEO, FinlyWealth
One of the creative ways I've found to get subscribers without using traditional opt-in forms is to build an insanely useful free tool that requires users to sign up to get access to it. This way, you attract potential subscribers by offering them something of value and also get them to engage more with your brand.
For example, I was inspired by CoSchedule's Headline Analyzer tool, which became super popular among marketers. The clever part was that users had to sign up for their email list to use the tool. This built brand recognition and goodwill and added relevant users to their email list so they could later promote their paid services.
This way, I get users to engage with my brand and become long-term subscribers. It's also growth hacking in action by using cheap and innovative tactics to get acquisition and retention.
Jorge Argota, Digital Marketing, Jorge Argota
One creative strategy I've implemented to attract subscribers without using traditional opt-in forms is hosting interactive giveaways or contests on social media. Instead of asking users to simply sign up through an opt-in form, I encourage participation by offering valuable prizes that resonate with my audience. For instance, I create a contest where participants can enter by sharing my content, tagging friends, or using a specific hashtag related to my brand.
This approach not only increases visibility and engagement but also creates a sense of community among participants. By leveraging social media platforms, I can reach a broader audience and generate organic interest in my offerings. To further enhance the strategy, I follow up with all participants through direct messages, thanking them for their involvement and inviting them to subscribe for more exclusive content and future giveaways. This method not only builds my subscriber list but also fosters a more genuine connection with potential customers, leading to higher engagement and loyalty in the long run.
This way, I get users to engage with my brand and become long-term subscribers. It's also growth hacking in action by using cheap and innovative tactics to get acquisition and retention.
Shehar Yar, CEO, Software House
One effective strategy is using content collaboration and shout-outs with influencers in our niche. By creating engaging content together and cross-promoting each other's channels, we tap into new audiences organically and provide value that encourages viewers to subscribe without relying on traditional opt-in forms.
John Frigo, eCommerce Manager, Best Price Nutrition
LinkedIn Ads have allowed us to create targeted B2B ads that boost our brand awareness and have also been effective in lead generation without using traditional opt-in forms.
As a professional platform, LinkedIn primarily consists of users who are our target audience. Moreover, the way the platform is set up allows LinkedIn lead generation ads to quickly populate user information from their profiles. This makes it easier to generate leads and gain subscribers without exclusively presenting them with a traditional opt-in form, which creates friction.
LinkedIn Ads provides various tools to help you customize the lead generation forms, ensuring they are engaging. Additionally, it seamlessly integrates with other tools like HubSpot CRM.
Steve Yang, CRO, TrackingMore
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