Join us for a chat with Chenell Basilio, founder of Growth in Reverse, as she shares her journey into email marketing and newsletter growth. Drawing from her hands-on experience and research of successful newsletters, Chenell breaks down what really works when it comes to building an engaged audience. Perfect for both beginners and experienced marketers looking to level up their newsletter game.
About Chenell Basilio
Chenell is the founder of Growth In Reverse, a newsletter and podcast where she reverse engineers the newsletter growth of top creators. Every week you get the growth playbooks and ways you can replicate some of their success with your own email list.
Linkedin: Follow here
Website: Visit here
Episode Resources
- Explore growth strategies with CrazyEgg: learn more
- Collect social proof with Senja: explore here
- Very Good Copy: discover more
- Check out First 100: read more
Thinking about how to take your newsletter signups and email engagement to the next level? Here are three actionable email tactics from Chenell Basilio’s conversation with Fab that you can start applying today:
Simplify Your Landing Page for Signups
Less clutter means visitors are more likely to take action, and social proof reassures them your newsletter is worth it.
Step-by-Step:
- Remove unnecessary info. Keep only what matters: a strong headline, a sentence or two about your newsletter, and your signup form.
- Add social proof. Below your form, feature subscriber counts, reputable readers, or testimonials—ideally with faces for trust-building.
- Test your page. Try small tweaks, like adding or removing your photo, and track what increases conversions.
Use an “Almost There” Page for Double Opt-In
Many subscribers think they’re done when they sign up. An “Almost There” page explains the final step so your list stays clean and engaged.
Step-by-Step:
- After signup, don’t jump straight to “Thank You.” Instead, send subscribers to a page reminding them to confirm their email (if you use double opt-in).
- Make it actionable. Include instructions and, if possible, a direct link that filters their inbox to your confirmation email (“sniper link”).
- Personalize the experience. This extra touch keeps your welcome funnel smooth, reducing lost subscribers.
Boost Engagement with a Custom Welcome Email
A unique welcome email feels personal and prompts readers to engage with you from day one.
Step-by-Step:
- Craft a distinctive subject line. Don’t just say “Welcome”, make it stand out by referencing your brand or the newsletter’s promise.
- Show personality. Use a friendly image, GIF, or video welcoming new readers.
- Ask for replies. Request a simple response, like “Say hi!” or answer a one-click quiz (keep it short). This improves deliverability and builds real relationships.