Harder to Build an Email List: New Strategies for 2025

Building an email list used to be simple: offer a free book, get signups. In 2025, stricter privacy rules and changing email algorithms (hello, Gmail Promotions tab) make it much harder.

Authors must now offer more irresistible lead magnets. Think bonus stories, private podcasts, or early access to new books. The free first book alone isn’t enough anymore.

Personalization is critical. Instead of blasting the same email to everyone, segment your list and send targeted, meaningful content based on what readers love.

Building an email list outside of traditional methods helps too. Hosting webinars, live readings, or giveaways can attract new subscribers in creative ways.

Even though it’s harder, a strong list is still one of an author’s most powerful assets. Focus on quality over quantity.