In the world of membership sites, attracting new members is only half the battle—the real challenge lies in keeping them engaged and subscribed. Consistent, relevant content of course underpins success in membership businesses.But why?That's where understanding the psychology behind why people stay subscribed can help you craft a better, more loyalty-producing experience.
Your member homepage is one of the most important pages on your site. It's where members land each time they log in, and it should be designed to keep them engaged, help them easily navigate your content, and encourage them to remain active subscribers.
As a membership website owner, your primary task is to write content for your members. This is especially important if you are collecting recurring payments from them in return for fresh content. So obviously, you want every article you write to shine!
Writing the perfect article may sound like a daunting task, but with a little planning and some best practices, you can craft content that captivates your members while imparting real information or advice. The steps here are a great start. The only missing piece is to make sure all your content has your distinctive stamp on the voice, tone, and flavour of your articles.
Know Your Audience
This should be easy since your members have already committed to you. Therefore, they already know, like and trust you. But before you put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), take a moment to think a little more deeply about who they are, their habits, their needs and wants. You may even know some of them personally. This is a golden opportunity to tailor your piece to answer a question you know they have, or to speak to a particular segment of your group.
Questions to ask yourself:
What does my audience care about?
What problems are they trying to solve?
What kind of tone will resonate with them (formal, conversational, humorous)?
For example, as a nutrition expert, your membership is varied. Some may be vegan, some paleo, some who like everything! They are each going to have slightly different problems day to day. You could answer questions like “is there such a thing as too much protein?”, or “how many carbs is too many?” The list is endless!.
Start with a Strong Hook
First impressions matter. The opening of your article should grab your member’s attention and make them want to continue reading. A strong hook could be:
Examples:
A compelling statistic: “Did you know that over 90% of Americans fail to meet daily vegetable intake recommendations?”
A question: “Are you struggling to understand what ‘eating clean’ really means?”
A personal story: “Last year, I decided to cut out processed sugar. The first week was tough, but the results were life-changing.”
Structure Your Article with Care
A well-structured article keeps readers engaged and ensures your points come across clearly. Follow this basic structure:
Introduction: Introduce the topic and explain why it’s important (e.g., “Why meal prepping saves time and money while improving health.”)
Body: Break down the main points into easily digestible sections, using subheadings and bullet points.
Conclusion: Summarize key takeaways and provide a call-to-action (e.g., “Start your journey to better nutrition by trying these three simple meal prep tips!”).
Using subheadings, lists, and short paragraphs also improves readability, especially for online content.
Write with Clarity and Confidence
Good writing is clear, concise, and confident. Avoid jargon and unnecessary fluff that might confuse or bore your members. Instead (continuing with our nutritionist example):
Use active voice: “Include leafy greens in your meals” is stronger than “Leafy greens should be included in meals.”
Be concise: Replace long explanations with direct, impactful sentences.
Explain complex concepts: Use examples, such as describing how fiber aids digestion by comparing it to a “broom” sweeping out your digestive system.
Add Value with Examples and Data
Readers appreciate actionable advice and real-world examples. Back up your points with data, case studies, or personal experiences. For example:
Share meal plans, recipes, or client success stories to make your points relatable.
Share a success story or cautionary tale to illustrate your point.
Example: Rather than saying, “Fiber is important for digestion,” say, “Studies show that increasing dietary fiber can reduce the risk of heart disease by up to 30%.”
Include a Call to Action
Never leave your readers hanging. A strong call to action (CTA) directs them on what to do next. Whether it's subscribing to your newsletter, leaving a comment, or sharing your article, make your CTA clear and compelling.
This is also a great place to upsell your members. Perhaps you are introducing a new program or challenge. Invite your members to apply to get a free pass or fast action discount.
Example CTA:“Ready for the next level? Join my new 90-day no-carb challenge for free!”
Use Gripping Headlines
Your headline is the first thing readers see, so make it count. A good headline is clear, intriguing, and gives a promise of value. Tools like CoSchedule Headline Analyzer can help refine your titles for maximum impact.
Instead of “Nutrition Tips,” try “7 Science-Backed Nutrition Tips to Transform Your Health.”
Use power words like “Ultimate,” “Proven,” or “Life-Changing” to add impact.
Use Subheads and Bullet Points
Breaking up your text with subheads and bullet points makes it easier for readers to scan and digest your content. This is especially important for online readers who tend to skim rather than read word-for-word.
Use subheads to introduce new sections.
Use bullet points for lists or key takeaways.
Inject Personal Stories and Opinions
Adding personal stories or opinions makes your article more relatable and engaging. Share your experiences, challenges, and insights to build a connection with your readers.
Example: Offer opinions on debated topics, like plant-based diets or intermittent fasting, to spark discussion.
Edit Ruthlessly
This is a phrase that you sometimes here from editors and publishers. What they mean is that you should be ruthless with your editing. You many have just written the cutest, most creative title in the world for your article. But does it tell your member what the article is about?
Consider a cute headline like “You Say Potato, I Say Potahto!”, or “Do You Want Fries With That?”. Do these tell you what the article is about? Not really. It’s usually a good idea to err on the side of the obvious. Something like 5 Ways to Ditch French Fries for Good – With No Regrets”. Now you have a headline that is still engaging but is also more explanatory.
Your first draft is rarely perfect. Once you’ve finished writing, you should also take the time to edit your article. Look for:
Spelling and grammar errors.
Sentences or sections that are unclear or repetitive.
Opportunities to improve flow and readability.
Tools like Grammarly or Hemingway Editor can help polish your writing, but don’t underestimate the value of a second pair of eyes. Ask a friend or colleague for feedback.
Final Thoughts
Writing the perfect article isn’t about following a rigid formula; it’s about understanding your audience, communicating clearly, and providing value. And don’t forget to be authentic in your writing. Use your writing voice to spark or deepen your connection with your members. They want to hear from you, in your unique style. So give the people what they want!
When building your homepage, don’t overlook the many benefits of incorporating icons into your website design. These simple yet impactful graphics can elevate your site's aesthetic appeal, enhance user experience, and effectively communicate information at a glance. In today’s visually driven digital landscape, icons are a must-have tool for engaging visitors and guiding them through your content seamlessly.
Why icons matter in website design
Icons are more than just decorative elements. They are functional, versatile, and powerful. Their elementary forms can enrich minimal content and provide structure to your pages by visually dividing text sections. This not only improves readability but also ensures that your content feels organised and approachable.
Icons have a unique ability to encapsulate complex ideas and instantly convey meaning intuitively. Unlike lengthy text, icons communicate universally, making them invaluable for diverse audiences or websites with an international reach.
Benefits of using icons
Highlight Key Content: Icons draw attention to specific sections of your site, such as membership benefits, special offers, or calls-to-action. By visually emphasizing important information, you can guide users to the content you most want them to engage with.
Improve Navigation: Icons make your navigation menus more intuitive. For instance, a shopping cart icon for your e-commerce store or a magnifying glass for search instantly conveys functionality, reducing cognitive load for users.
Enhance Aesthetics: Icons bring a polished and cohesive look to your site. They’re especially effective when paired with a minimalistic design approach, adding visual interest without overwhelming the layout.
Boost Accessibility: Well-designed icons can support users with visual or cognitive impairments by providing clear visual cues, ensuring a more inclusive browsing experience.
Save Space: Icons allow you to communicate more with less. For instance, a single icon can represent an action (like downloading a file) or an idea (such as sustainability), freeing up space for other design elements.
Where to find free icons
Finding high-quality icons doesn’t have to break the bank. Platforms like FontAwesome, Icons8 and Flaticon offer extensive libraries of free icons for nearly every purpose imaginable. Their user-friendly dashboards allow you to easily edit icons for color, scale and style, ensuring they align perfectly with your website’s design.
Other excellent sources for free icons include:
Font Awesome: A popular toolkit that offers scalable vector icons customizable with CSS.
Icons8: A vast collection of free and premium icons, including sets tailored for specific themes or industries.
FlatIcon: Download Free Icons and Stickers for your projects. Resources made by and for designers. PNG, SVG, EPS, PSD and CSS formats.
Tips for effectively using icons
Stay Consistent: Choose icons that share a common style or theme. This helps maintain a cohesive design throughout your site.
Prioritise Simplicity: Avoid overly complex or detailed icons. Simpler designs are easier to recognize and scale well across devices.
Match Your Brand: Ensure that the colors and style of your icons align with your brand’s identity. Customizing colors can help integrate them seamlessly into your design.
Don’t Overuse: While icons are great for enhancing design, using too many can clutter your site. Be strategic and use them to emphasise only the most important elements.
Conclusion
Icons are small but mighty elements that can transform your website into a visually engaging and user-friendly experience. Whether you’re looking to emphasise content, improve navigation, or add a professional touch, the strategic use of icons can make a big impact. Explore the creative possibilities, and let these versatile tools work their magic on your site!
Running a membership website is rewarding, but it can be a lot to manage—especially when it comes to keeping your members engaged and organized. That’s where Mailchimp’s automated workflows come in. Think of them as your behind-the-scenes assistant, handling communication so you can focus on growing your community.
Let’s explore how Mailchimp automation works and how you can use it to streamline tasks like welcoming new members, managing cancellations, and sending renewal reminders.
What Are Mailchimp Automation Workflows?
Mailchimp’s automated workflows are like pre-programmed email sequences that respond to specific triggers. For example, when a new member signs up, an automated workflow can send a series of emails to welcome them and show them the ropes.
The best part? It all happens automatically. No more manually sending emails or keeping track of everyone’s status. Mailchimp ensures your members get the right message at the right time, making your life a lot easier.
Why Automation Matters for Membership Websites
Membership websites thrive on connection, but managing communication can be time-consuming. Automation lets you handle these tasks effortlessly:
Welcome new members with personalized emails.
Gently nudge members to renew their subscriptions.
Remove canceled members from your mailing list without awkward manual updates.
With workflows in place, you can focus less on logistics and more on creating an amazing experience for your members.
How Membership Websites Can Use Mailchimp Automation Workflows
Here are five ways you can use Mailchimp’s automation features to make your membership website run more smoothly:
1. Roll Out the Welcome Mat
First impressions count, and a thoughtful welcome series can set the tone for your members’ entire experience.
How it works:
Trigger: A new member joins your site.
What happens next:
Email 1: A warm welcome with an overview of your community and resources.
Email 2 (a few days later): Tips on getting the most out of their membership.
Email 3 (a week later): An invitation to an upcoming event or feature spotlight.
This series helps members feel at home and excited about their decision to join.
2. Handle Cancellations Smoothly
Cancellations are part of running a membership site, but they don’t have to create extra work. Mailchimp can automatically unsubscribe members who cancel, keeping your mailing list up-to-date and avoiding awkward follow-ups.
How it works:
Trigger: Your membership platform (via an integration like Zapier) notifies Mailchimp of a cancellation.
What happens next:
The member is automatically unsubscribed or moved to an inactive list.
If the unsubscribed member has been moved to another list, you can send a polite goodbye email thanking them for their time and inviting them back anytime. (List members have to be “subscribed” to received list emails.)
3. Send Friendly Renewal Reminders
Keeping members engaged is key to reducing churn. A well-timed reminder can make all the difference when it’s time for them to renew.
How it works:
Trigger: A member’s subscription is about to expire.
What happens next:
30 days before expiration: Send a friendly nudge with a renewal link.
15 days before expiration: Highlight the value of their membership and what they’ll miss out on if they don’t renew.
5 days before expiration: Create urgency with a final reminder—perhaps offering a special discount.
This automated workflow ensures your members don’t miss their renewal window, helping you maintain a steady membership base. This functionality is available on some membership platforms, including SubHub, but you can enhance it using Mailchimp.
Trigger: A member hits a milestone, like six months of active membership, or frequently engages with your content.
What happens next:
Send an email showcasing premium-tier benefits.
Include testimonials from happy premium members.
Offer a limited-time upgrade discount to create a sense of urgency.
This approach makes upgrading feel like an opportunity rather than a hard sell.
5. Keep Members in the Loop About Events
Hosting a webinar, meetup, or virtual event? Use Mailchimp to make sure everyone stays informed and excited.
How it works:
Trigger: A member registers for your event.
What happens next:
Email 1: Send a confirmation email with event details and a calendar link.
Email 2 (3 days before the event): Share a quick reminder to keep it top-of-mind.
Email 3 (1 hour before the event): Send a final reminder with the login link or instructions.
With automated reminders, your members are far less likely to forget or miss the event.
Getting Started with Mailchimp Automation Workflows
Here’s how to set up your workflows:
Connect Your Membership Platform: Tools like Zapier make it easy to sync data between your membership site and Mailchimp.
Use Tags and Segments to categorize your lists: Organize your email list by categories like active members, inactive members, or premium-tier subscribers with the Segments feature.
Optionally, you can use the tagging feature to tag certain members of your lists, then segment the tagged group.
Design Your Emails: Use Mailchimp’s intuitive drag-and-drop editor to set up the list or segment you want to mail to, and create a polished, on-brand email sequence.
Test Before Launching: Run a few test workflows to ensure everything works as expected.
The Bottom Line
Mailchimp automation is a game-changer for membership websites. It helps you build strong, meaningful connections with your members while saving time and simplifying operations. From welcoming new members to managing cancellations and renewals, automation keeps your community running smoothly.
Some membership platforms, including SubHub, are integrated with Mailchimp, making these types of workflows a breeze to set up. If you’re on a platform that isn’t directly integrated with Mailchimp, you can most likely use Zapier to create the connection and set up your triggers and actions.
Ready to level up your membership site? Open a free SubHub trial and dive into Mailchimp’s automated workflows.
Creating a membership website homepage is more than just designing a visually appealing page; it’s about crafting an experience that guides visitors seamlessly toward becoming subscribers. Membership homepages need content designed to introduce, inform, build trust, peak interest and prompt the subscription of a visitor. And they also need to be optimised with keywords to be found by search engines.
We've created a checklist of homepage elements and best practices to use when building your membership website.
Key elements of a high-converting membership homepage
1. A simple logo
The first element most people add to their website is a logo. Your logo should reflect your brand identity without dominating the page. Oversized logos can waste valuable space and push important content below the fold. Unless you’re a household name, your logo alone won’t drive conversions—so keep it subtle.
2. Add a favicon
That small icon in your browser tab, known as a favicon, is an often-overlooked detail. It enhances your brand’s visibility when users have multiple tabs open. Including one reinforces professionalism and helps visitors easily locate your site.
When building your homepage, make sure you pay attention to even the smallest detail.
3. Streamlined navigation links
A clutter-free header is crucial for usability. Stick to six or fewer navigation links to maintain a clean and intuitive structure. Essential links like Home, Subscribe, or Services should be prominent, while secondary ones like About or Contact can be placed in the footer.
Take some time to plan how your members will navigate your content. Make sure your site's navigation is logical and user friendly. Good structure is important for both users and search engines when they are crawling your site to index it.
4. Create an impactful banner
Your banner is the first point of engagement for a visitor as it’s ‘above the fold’. This means it’s the content that first fills the screen. Here’s where you need to make an impact and capture a visitor’s interest.
Use a high-quality, appealing image. Make sure you’ve compressed the file so it loads quickly, saves bandwidth and doesn’t ‘dribble’ down the screen. Use online image compression tools like tinyjpg and tinypng.
Your banner headline needs to connect with and inspire your audience AND be compelling enough to convince a visitor to keep scrolling. Exercise “power words” to motivate your audience to convert.
Use the supportive subheadline, to add clarity and emphasise your value proposition or unique selling point.
Anchor the text with a call to action button to trigger further action. Link it to your subscribe, store or learn more page.
5. Showcase member benefits
Dedicate a section to highlight 3–4 key benefits of becoming a member. Use concise, descriptive text and relevant keywords for better SEO. Enhance readability by pairing benefits with icons to draw attention and make your message visually engaging.
6. Tell your story
A well-written “About” section can humanise your brand. Share your mission, values and the inspiration behind your service. This is your opportunity to connect with visitors emotionally, fostering trust and encouraging them to explore further.
7. Highlight results with before & after visuals
For industries like fitness or design, before-and-after images are powerful tools to establish credibility. Real-life examples showcase tangible benefits, encouraging potential members to envision their own success.
8. Build trust with testimonials
Incorporate 2–4 authentic testimonials to validate your service. Member endorsements are a proven way to boost credibility and reduce hesitation. A homepage with social proof is far more likely to convert.
9. Offer free samples
Give visitors a sneak peek at what’s behind the paywall. This could include free tutorials, downloadable resources, or access to a limited section of your content. Not only does this build trust, but it also improves your site’s SEO by offering publicly indexable content.
Having a mix of member and non-member content is essential as Google doesn’t index content behind paywalls.
10. Optimise for SEO
On your homepage and throughout your membership website, you should be optimising your content to get found by search engines (SEO). This means incorporating the keywords and phrases that are being used when people are searching for content like yours.
Keywords help search bots understand your website and identify if it's relevant to a search query.
Keywords should be present in titles, headlines, body text, image tags and most importantly meta tags. Of course, this doesn't mean to keyword stuff. But to use keywords in a natural and authentic manner meant to inform and accurately describe your content and website.
11. Fast load times matter
Visitors won’t stick around if your site is slow. Large images are often the culprit, so compress files to reduce load time. Make sure to resize and compress large image files so they load fast and deliver a positive impression to visitors.
12. Capture leads with a newsletter
A pop-up or signup form for a monthly newsletter lets you stay connected with potential members who aren’t ready to subscribe immediately. Use newsletters to share updates, free resources, and exclusive deals, nurturing these leads over time.
13. Transparent pricing plans
Make it easy for visitors to see the value you offer. Display your subscription options near the bottom of the homepage, and include a CTA linking to the signup page. A clear pricing breakdown builds trust and aids decision-making.
14. Prioritise clean design
A simple, uncluttered layout ensures visitors focus on the key elements of your site. Incorporate white space strategically to improve readability and highlight important sections. Additionally, choose colors wisely to evoke the desired emotions and complement your branding.
Final thoughts
This improved version streamlines the content, makes it more engaging, and provides actionable advice with a clear and professional tone.
Running a successful online membership community is about more than just getting people to sign up. Keeping members engaged and happy is key to long-term success. However, understanding why members leave can help you take action to improve their experience and keep your community thriving.
Here are five common reasons why members leave an online community, and what you can do to stop it from happening.
1. They Don’t See The Value Anymore
Why They Leave: People join a membership for various reasons, but they all boil down to value for money. If members don’t feel like they’re getting anything worthwhile from your community, or if they’re not getting the results they were promised, they’ll start questioning why are still part of it. Whether it’s access to exclusive content, useful resources, or networking opportunities, members want to feel like they’re gaining something.
How to Prevent It: Make sure the benefits of your community are clear. Highlight what members will get and consistently remind them of the value they’re receiving. Send updates about new resources, courses, or features. Regularly ask for feedback to make sure you’re offering what they need, and make improvements based on their input. Above all, be careful not to over-promise or guarantee results that you can't deliver.
2. Stale or Outdated Content
Why They Leave: If the content on your site is old or repetitive, members will lose interest quickly. Communities thrive on fresh, relevant material that keeps members learning and growing. Too many membership websites start out with enthusiasm and excitement, but soon the flame burns out and admins start being less consistent with content.
How to Prevent It: Keep your content up to date by regularly adding new articles, videos, or resources. Stay on top of trends in your niche, and invite guest experts to share their knowledge. Seasonal content, such as a special topic or challenge, can also keep things interesting for members. If you simply can’t deliver the content you initially promised, at least be transparent about it. Let your members know the reasons why, and if you will be able to pick up the pace after a period of time. By being up-front, you could avoid losing members and recurring revenue.
3. Too Many Sales Pitches
Why They Leave: It’s normal to promote premium upgrades or additional products, but if members feel like they’re constantly being sold to, they’ll feel overwhelmed and undervalued.
How to Prevent It: Focus on building strong relationships with your members before pushing sales. When they trust and feel supported by you, they’re more likely to consider upgraded or higher paid options on their own. Make sure your free or basic-tier content provides genuine value, so members don’t feel pressured to upgrade just to get something worthwhile.
4. Lack of Member Interaction
Why They Leave: Members join online communities to connect with like-minded people. If they don’t have the opportunity to interact with others, they’ll feel isolated and may leave.
How to Prevent It: Encourage interaction by creating discussion spaces, such as forums or chat groups. Host live events, contests, or challenges where members can engage with one another. Recognize members’ achievements and contributions to foster a sense of belonging. The more connected members feel, the more likely they’ll stay.
5. Personal Circumstances
Why They Leave: Sometimes, life happens. Financial challenges or lack of time can cause members to cancel, even if they love the community.
How to Prevent It: While you can’t control personal situations, offering flexibility can help. Consider giving members the option to pause their membership instead of canceling altogether. Offer different pricing tiers or temporary discounts for those who may be struggling financially. A flexible and supportive approach can make members more likely to return when they’re ready.
Final Thoughts
Retaining members is essential for building a strong online community. By understanding the reasons why members leave and addressing these issues head-on, you can create a more engaging, valuable experience. Keeping content fresh, avoiding constant sales pitches, promoting member interaction, and being flexible with personal circumstances will help ensure that your members stick around for the long haul.
In today's crowded digital space, standing out is challenging. One thing that can set your membership website apart is personalization. People love feeling like something was made just for them, and offering a personalized experience makes your members feel valued, keeps them engaged, and encourages them to stick around longer.
Here are five simple ways to create more personalized experiences for your members:
1. Customize Content to Member Interests
Every member joins your site for their own reasons—some may want to learn new skills, others might be seeking community or exclusive perks. By learning more about your members through market research or surveys, you can better understand their needs and recommend relevant content.
Example: If your membership site is geared toward business owners, ask new members what industries they work in and which topics they care about. Then, you can offer tailored resources, such as courses, webinars, or articles, that meet their specific interests.
When members receive content that truly resonates with them, they’re more likely to stay engaged and committed to your site.
2. Personalize the Onboarding Process
Getting members off to a great start is crucial for long-term retention. A personalized onboarding process helps members quickly find the resources they need and feel at home on your platform.
Example: For a fitness membership site, ask new members about their fitness level, goals, and available equipment. You can then provide a personalized workout plan or recommend courses that match their needs. To go the extra mile, you could even create short personalized welcome videos for top-tier members.
The sooner your members feel they’re in the right place, the faster they’ll engage with your offerings.
3. Make Smart Recommendations
If your membership site offers a wide range of content, your members may have trouble navigating everything. Help them by offering personalized content recommendations based on their preferences or previous activity.
Example: For a membership site targeting creatives, if a member has shown an interest in graphic design, you could recommend new tools, tutorials, or community groups that align with their interest. You can do this with dynamic recommendation widgets or through a regular “tips” email.
By giving members relevant recommendations, you make it easier for them to find what they need and keep them engaged with your site.
4. Send Targeted Email Campaigns
Emails remain a powerful tool for member engagement, but generic emails can easily be overlooked. Personalize your email campaigns by tailoring them to the specific interests and needs of your members.
Example: For a membership site catering to entrepreneurs, segment your email list by interest and send out tailored advice, content, or event invites. If a member hasn’t visited your site in a while, send them a friendly, personalized reminder with a new article or a special offer.
Targeted emails make your communication feel more relevant and personal, encouraging members to stay connected.
5. Offer Custom Rewards or Loyalty Programs
Everyone loves rewards, and personalizing them to your members’ goals and achievements makes the experience even better.
Example: If your membership site focuses on professional development, create a rewards program where members earn badges, discounts, or early access to exclusive content for completing courses or attending events. Tailor the rewards to align with their career goals or learning paths.
A personalized loyalty program makes members feel recognized and valued, encouraging them to stay active and engaged.
Final Thoughts
Personalization is one of the best ways to create a deeper connection with your members. By customizing content, onboarding experiences, and rewards, you show your members that you understand their needs and care about their success. These small touches can make a big impact, helping you retain members and grow your community.
The most pivotal moment in growing the audience for your membership website happens immediately after a prospect becomes a member. It’s at this precise moment they’re most excited, most engaged and most open to your brand. How you respond next will leave a lasting impression and shape their perception of your business.
What is member onboarding?
Member onboarding refers to the process of welcoming new members after they’ve purchased a membership. One of the biggest mistakes businesses make is focusing all their energy on customer acquisition, only to neglect new members after the sign up. Without an effective onboarding process, even your best marketing efforts can go to waste.
An ideal onboarding experience will:
Solve any technical challenges: Help new members with login issues, password setup and navigation.
Encourage engagement: Get new members actively using your site by suggesting videos, promoting free courses and interacting with your content.
Build community connection: Help members engage with your community and form connections.
Create a positive first impression: Leave members feeling welcome, confident and excited about their purchase.
Let’s explore seven strategies to ensure your member onboarding experience is a memorable one:
1. Send a personal welcome email
When starting out with your membership site, every new customer is valuable. A simple “thank you” can go a long way in building goodwill. As your membership base grows, you can consider automating this process while maintaining a personal touch.
In your welcome email, include:
A warm thank you message.
Any essential housekeeping information - like login details.
Clear instructions on how to get started.
2. Provide 'getting started' instructions
Passwords, login details and learning how to navigate a new site can be overwhelming for a first-time user. Hold their hand (virtually) by providing clear, step-by-step instructions on how to get started. You can send these instructions via email and also create a dedicated "Welcome" page on your site that includes all the essential information.
3. Design clear navigation
A well-organized content flow is essential to ensuring new members get the most out of their purchase. Your website’s navigation should be intuitive. The layout and organisation should be designed with the user in mind, making it effortless to locate specific content, explore available courses or join available online events. Each step of the journey should feel cohesive, with clear labels, well-structured menus and a logical progression between different sections of your site.
By organising your content with user experience at the forefront, you increase engagement and retention because members are more likely to stick around if they can easily access the content they paid for.
4. Create a sense of community
For many membership sites, the community is what keeps members engaged long-term. While people often join for the content, they stay for the relationships. If your site has a forum or community space, personally welcome new members and encourage them to introduce themselves. A simple question, like “What are you hoping to achieve here?” can spark conversation and help members feel more connected from the outset.
5. Offer a special discount
Reward new members with a store discount code, free digital download, online course or event. This bonus makes them feel valued and it an opportunity to reinforce the value of their subscription to your membership website. You could also use this as an opportunity to introduce higher membership tiers, encouraging them to unlock more premium content.
6. Highlight future content
Don’t just focus on the present. Get new members excited about the future! Highlight upcoming content, webinars or events that will be available to them. This motivates members to engage with current resources so they’re ready when new content arrives. Regularly updating them on upcoming features fosters a sense of exclusivity and reinforces the value of their membership.
Onboarding is more than just a “welcome”. A thoughtful, well-executed onboarding system helps eliminate confusion, encourages immediate engagement, and fosters long-term loyalty. Whether you're a new membership site owner or already established, taking the time to perfect your onboarding process will have lasting benefits for your business and your members alike.
Onboarding new members to your membership website is essential to keeping them engaged and making sure they get the most out of their membership from day one. A smooth onboarding process helps members feel welcomed, understand the value of what you offer, and feel excited to be part of your community. Here are five simple and effective ways to ensure new members have a great experience when they first join.
1. Send a Warm Welcome Email Series
Starting off with a friendly and informative welcome email series can make a big difference in how connected your new members feel. Instead of sending just one generic email, break it into a series that gradually introduces them to the platform and what it has to offer.
Examples:
Email 1: Greet them, thank them for joining, and share a brief overview of what to expect.
Email 2: Highlight key features—whether it’s premium content, a special forum, or upcoming live events.
Email 3: Share success stories or tips from other members who have benefited from your site.
Email 4: Offer practical advice on how to navigate the site and encourage them to reach out if they need help.
This approach builds a connection, helping members feel valued while also making sure they don’t miss out on anything important.
2. Offer a Quick Website Tour or Onboarding Video
Another effective onboarding tool is a quick tour or video walkthrough. Once members log in, guide them through the important sections of your site so they don’t have to figure it out all on their own.
Example: Create a short video or interactive tour showing how to:
Make sure it’s clear and easy to follow, and for those who prefer to explore on their own, give them an option to skip it.
3. Provide a Quick-Start Guide
Some people prefer to dive right in, so offering a quick-start guide can help them do just that. Whether it’s a downloadable checklist, a PDF, or a short webpage, giving new members a roadmap for success in their first few days will help them get the most out of their membership quickly.
Example:
Offer a guide with just a few simple steps like updating their profile, exploring key content, and engaging with the community.
Include tips on setting up notifications, bookmarking favorite sections, or joining discussions.
Add a little reward—like a free resource or badge—for completing all the steps.
This gives new members clear direction, helping them feel confident and get started right away.
4. Send Personalized Messages
Personal touches go a long way, and sending personalized onboarding messages is a great way to help new members feel like you’re paying attention to their needs. Whether it's based on their behavior, interests, or the membership level they signed up for, personal messages make them feel seen.
Example:
After sign-up, send a personalized email using their name and suggest features or content that match their interests.
For higher-tier members, offer a one-on-one onboarding call with a support team member.
Create a personalized welcome video, thanking them for joining and welcoming them to the community. Try to add some detail you’re aware of about them, such as their location or previous experience, to personalize it even more.
When new members feel like you’re guiding them personally, they’re much more likely to stay engaged.
5. Offer Special Welcome Perks
Everyone loves a little extra something, and offering exclusive perks just for new members is a great way to boost excitement and get them exploring the platform.
Example:
Give new members access to a free e-book, webinar, or resource pack when they sign up.
Offer early access to new content or VIP entry to a special event.
Run a challenge where members who complete certain actions (like finishing their first course within 7 days) get a “fast-action” reward such as a T-shirt, mug, or branded pen. An actual gift received in the mail, while more work for you, adds a personal touch that will be remembered far better than a discount or email message.
These small incentives can get members active right away and show them that they’ve made the right choice in joining.
Final Thoughts
Onboarding new members is more than just showing them around—it’s about making them feel welcomed, valued, and ready to engage. By following these strategies, you’ll give new members a strong start, helping them see the value of your membership site early on. And when members feel supported and excited from the beginning, they’re much more likely to stick around for the long term.
If you run a membership website, great customer support isn’t just a nice bonus—it’s essential for keeping your members happy and sticking around. Good support can turn frustrated users into loyal fans, and can even encourage them to spread the word about your site. Here are five simple ways you can up your customer support game:
1. Create a Knowledge Base for Self-Help
Most people don't want to wait for help if they can figure things out on their own. A knowledge base is basically a treasure trove of useful guides, FAQs, and how-tos that your members can access anytime they need. It’s a win-win: your members find answers quickly, and your support team gets fewer repetitive questions.
Here’s what you can do to make a knowledge base work for you:
Organize everything into clear categories and add a search bar so people can easily find what they need.
Keep it updated as you add new features or make changes to your site.
Use videos and screenshots where possible—some things are just easier to explain visually.
2. Provide Support Across Multiple Channels
Everyone has a preferred way of reaching out when they need help. Some like email, some prefer live chat, while others are all about social media. Offering different support channels lets members choose what works best for them.
Some popular options to consider:
Email: Great for more detailed questions or when a member needs to explain their issue in-depth.
Live chat: Ideal for quick fixes and real-time assistance.
Phone: Perfect for urgent issues or when someone just needs to talk things out.
Social media: Members might try to get in touch with you through X, Facebook, or Instagram, so having someone monitoring those platforms is smart.
The more options you offer, the easier it is for members to get help, which leads to happier users.
Let’s face it—your support team can only do so much. This is where chatbots come in. They can handle easy questions like "How do I reset my password?" or "Where can I find X?" and free up your human team for more complex issues.
Why chatbots are helpful:
Instant answers, even at 3 a.m.
They can handle the repetitive stuff, so your team doesn’t have to.
They can route tougher questions to a real person when needed.
Using a chatbot means faster response times and less stress on your support staff, all while giving members the help they need, when they need it.
When members contact support, they don’t want to feel like just another ticket in the system. Personalizing your responses goes a long way in making them feel valued. A simple way to do this is by maintaining detailed member profiles.
Here’s how you can get personal:
Keep track of past interactions, membership details, and the content they’re most interested in.
Address them by name and mention specifics that relate to their membership.
Suggest resources or content based on what they’ve been doing on your site.
When you remember their history and personalize the interaction, it builds trust and makes them feel like they’re more than just a number.
5. Respond Quickly and Be Transparent
Nobody likes being left in the dark. Whether you can solve a member’s problem quickly or not, it’s important to keep them in the loop. Members appreciate fast responses, but they also want to know what's happening behind the scenes if something takes longer than expected.
Here’s how you can keep communication smooth:
Be upfront about your response times, and stick to them.
For trickier problems, let members know you’re working on it and give them updates along the way.
Use a ticketing system so members can check on the status of their requests.
Keeping things clear and transparent builds trust, even if things take a little longer than usual. Your members just want to know that you’re on it.
Wrapping it Up
Strong customer support can make or break a membership website. By building a solid knowledge base, offering multiple ways to get help, using chatbots, personalizing interactions, and keeping communication clear and fast, you’ll be setting yourself up for success. Happy, supported members are more likely to stick around and recommend your site to others—so it’s worth the investment!
Many people launch their membership site with great anticipation. They spend weeks, sometimes months, building excitement - teasing content, releasing trailers, rallying their network and leveraging PR to spread the word. They pull out all the stops to make their launch as exciting as possible, only to be met with a lackluster response. Despite their efforts, the sign-ups don’t meet expectations, leaving them frustrated and wondering what went wrong.
A membership website launch can fail for several reasons, often stemming from a combination of unrealistic expectations, insufficient planning, or missing key strategic elements.
Some common reasons a website launch has a poor reaction are:
Lacks clear value proposition. Potential members need to understand exactly what they’ll gain from joining your membership.
Poor audience engagement. A common mistake is launching without having built a warm and engaged audience beforehand.
Pricing Issues. If your membership pricing isn’t aligned with your audience’s perceived value, it can turn people away.
User experience problems. If the sign-up process is confusing, visitors may get frustrated and leave without joining.
These eight tactics can complement your overall strategy to consistently attract new members and grow your membership site.
1. Create a compelling value proposition
Clearly communicating the unique value your membership site offers is key to attracting new members. Make sure your pricing page highlights the benefits of joining, such as access to expert resources, a supportive community, exclusive tools, or special content. Ensure your value proposition addresses the specific needs or pain points of your target audience.
2. Offer a free trial
Giving potential members a taste of what they’ll gain access to is one of the most effective ways to attract them. Offering exclusive content, like a free eBook, webinar, or a limited-time free trial, allows visitors to experience the benefits firsthand. This not only builds trust but also provides an opportunity to showcase the quality of your content and the value they will get as a member.
3. Leverage social proof
People are more likely to join a membership site when they see others benefiting from it. Display testimonials from current members, share success stories, or feature case studies that show how your site has impacted people’s lives. Additionally, using social proof such as the number of members or community engagement (e.g., active forums, popular webinars) helps create a sense of credibility and trust.
4. Host webinars or live events
Hosting live events like webinars, Q&A sessions, or workshops is a great way to engage potential members and showcase your expertise. These events create an interactive experience that allows you to demonstrate the value of your membership site in real time. After the event, you can offer attendees special deals or limited-time discounts to encourage them to join.
5. Offer a special discount
Create an urgency through a limited-time discount that can entice potential members to join sooner rather than later. Highlight the exclusive nature of the offer, such as a discount on membership fees or a bonus resource, to motivate sign-ups. Promoting these offers through email marketing, social media, or your website can effectively capture attention and drive conversions.
6. Build a community on social media
Use social media to build an engaged community around your brand. Platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram allow you to create groups or pages where you can share valuable content, answer questions, and interact with your audience. A strong social media presence fosters trust, and as followers become more invested in your content, they’ll be more inclined to join your membership site to access exclusive benefits and content.
7. Collaborate with influencers or partners
Partnering with influencers or businesses in your niche can significantly boost your reach. Influencers can promote your membership site to their audience, creating exposure to a broader and more relevant audience. Alternatively, you can collaborate with other businesses for cross-promotion or bundled offers, adding more value to potential members and enhancing your credibility.
8. Create compelling content
Regularly publishing high-quality, valuable content - such as blog posts, courses and videos can drive traffic to your site and establish your authority in your niche. Content that addresses your target audience’s pain points or interests will naturally attract potential members. By optimising your content for SEO, you can also increase visibility in search engines, helping more people discover your membership site organically.
Providing value upfront through content marketing builds trust and nurtures relationships, making it easier to convert visitors into paying members.
