Email is still one of the best ways to reach your customers—whether you sell handmade bags, run a food business, or offer professional services. But sending emails one by one? That’s tiring, time-consuming, and not the best use of your time. This is where automated email marketing funnels come in.
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Let’s break it down together—in simple, friendly terms. By the end of this article, you’ll understand what automated email marketing funnels are, why they matter, and how to build one step-by-step.
What is an Automated Email Marketing Funnel?
Think of an email marketing funnel like a conversation with a customer—just done by email and automatically. It’s a journey where your subscriber starts from not knowing you well to trusting you, and finally buying from you (or signing up, or taking an action you want).
The best part? Once you set it up, it keeps working for you—day and night.
Let’s say someone signs up on your website for a free skincare guide. Your funnel might look like this:
- Day 1: “Welcome! Here’s your free guide.”
- Day 3: “5 tips to care for your skin in Nigerian weather.”
- Day 5: “Why your cleanser might be harming you.”
- Day 7: “Here’s our best-selling face cream (with a discount).”
Now imagine this happening with every new subscriber, without you lifting a finger. That’s the power of automated email marketing funnels.
Why Should You Use One?
Here’s why small business owners, side hustlers, and even churches should consider it:
- Saves time: You set it up once, and it keeps working.
- Builds trust: You’re not just selling—you’re helping and educating first.
- Increases sales: People buy more when they feel connected to your brand.
- Works on autopilot: Even when you’re sleeping, emails are going out.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your Funnel
Let’s keep this easy and human. You don’t need fancy tools or a tech background to get started.
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Choose Your Email Tool
Start with a free or low-cost email service. Some good beginner-friendly options are:
- Mailchimp
- ConvertKit
- Brevo (formerly Sendinblue)
- MailerLite
These tools allow you to build email lists and set up automation.
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Offer a Freebie (Lead Magnet)
People don’t just give out their email addresses for fun. Offer them something valuable in exchange.
Examples:
- A free guide (“10 Ways to Manage Stress at Work”)
- A checklist (“Wedding Planning Checklist for Nigerian Brides”)
- A discount (“Get 10% off your first order”)
Keep it simple, useful, and connected to what you sell or do.
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Create Your Email Sequence
This is the heart of your funnel. You’ll write 4–6 short, friendly emails. Here’s a sample structure:
- Email 1 (Welcome): “Thanks for joining! Here’s your free gift.”
- Email 2 (Story): Share your personal journey or the story behind your brand.
- Email 3 (Value): Teach something useful. Give tips or solve a small problem.
- Email 4 (Testimonial): Share a happy customer’s story or review.
- Email 5 (Offer): Gently introduce your product or service with a special offer.
- Email 6 (Reminder): Remind them that the offer ends soon. Be polite, not pushy.
Write like you’re talking to a friend. Use simple English. Be honest and helpful.
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Set the Timing
Inside your email tool, you’ll decide when each email goes out. Example:
- Day 0: Email 1
- Day 2: Email 2
- Day 4: Email 3
- Day 6: Email 4
- Day 8: Email 5
- Day 10: Email 6
This spacing gives your subscribers time to breathe while keeping your brand in their minds.
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Test and Adjust
Once your funnel is live, don’t forget to check how it’s doing. Are people opening your emails? Are they clicking your links?
If one email isn’t working well, tweak the subject line or message. This is how you improve over time.
Bonus Tips
- Use their name in the email. Most tools let you do this easily.
- Keep it mobile-friendly. Many people in Nigeria read emails on their phones.
- Avoid sales language. Help first, sell later.
- Don’t buy email lists. Grow your list with real people who want to hear from you.
Final Thoughts
Automated email marketing funnels aren’t only for big brands or tech experts. They’re for everyday people like you—trying to grow a business, share a message, or connect with an audience.
Start small. Write like a human. Offer value. And be patient. Over time, these little emails can lead to big results. So what are you waiting for? Pick your email tool, craft that freebie, and start building your first funnel today. You’ve got this!
keyphrase: automated email marketing funnels
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