How to Build a Simple Marketing Funnel That Actually Works

Byangeljepsen

If your marketing feels scattered or you’re not sure what happens after someone visits your site, it’s probably time to map out a simple marketing funnel. No fancy software, no over-engineering—just a clear path that moves your ideal customer from “Hey, this is interesting” to “I’m ready to buy.”

Here’s how to build a funnel that works for real people (and busy teams).

🔍 What Is a Marketing Funnel?

At its core, a funnel is just a way to guide people from first learning about your business to eventually making a decision. The stages typically look like this:

  1. Awareness – They discover you exist
  2. Consideration – They’re interested, but need more info
  3. Decision – They’re ready to take action

Your job is to give them what they need at each step.

🧱 Step 1: Start With Just One Funnel

You don’t need to build an empire. Start with one simple journey for one key audience. For example:

  • A service provider might guide a new visitor to download a free checklist → then get a welcome email → then book a discovery call.
  • A product-based business might offer a discount for new subscribers → send product education emails → then share a limited-time offer.

✍️ Step 2: Create One Useful Lead Magnet

Your funnel starts by giving people something valuable in exchange for their email.

Examples:

  • A checklist (“10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a ____”)
  • A short guide or worksheet
  • A free sample or discount code

📥 This gives you permission to follow up—and that’s where the real magic happens.

📬 Step 3: Write a Simple Email Sequence

After someone downloads your resource, what happens next? Map out 3–5 emails:

  1. Welcome + Deliver the Freebie
  2. Teach or Inspire (give value, build trust)
  3. Introduce Your Offer
  4. Share a Case Study or Testimonial
  5. Invite Them to Take Action

Each email should feel like a helpful nudge, not a hard sell.

📊 Step 4: Measure the Basics

Start with simple metrics:

  • How many people are visiting your landing page?
  • How many are downloading your lead magnet?
  • How many are clicking in your emails?

Use free tools like MailerLite, ConvertKit, or even Google Forms to track results and improve over time.

🔄 Funnel First, Flashy Later

It’s easy to get distracted by tactics—social media, paid ads, automation. But without a funnel, you’re just sending people to a dead end.

Build the path first. Then drive traffic to it.

🎁 Coming Next Week:

Want to build your first lead magnet the easy way?
Stay tuned for: “How to Create a Freebie That Actually Converts.”

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