Want to Convert Unsubscribes into Customers? Here's How!

Proven techniques + examples to transform email unsubscribes into valuable customers for your business.

Sponsored by

Hi there

Hi, and welcome back to another edition of eCommerce Alchemy - your one-stop destination for everything related to ecommerce growth.

Ever had a moment where you watched someone walk out the door and wondered if there was a way to bring them back? That's the feeling when we see unsubscribes leaving your email list. But hold up! What if I told you that behind every unsubscribe lies a hidden opportunity? Yup, you heard it right.

In this edition, we will explore why losing a subscriber isn't the end of the road but a chance to revamp your strategy and come back stronger.

Plus, I've got some brilliant examples of unsubscribe pages that turn departures into returns. So, let's flip the script on unsubscribers and uncover the potential they hold. Ready to join the journey? Let's roll!

Level Up Your Social Media Strategy This April

Master the art of crafting a social strategy. This small group and conversational training from the American Marketing Association equips you with the knowledge to create highly effective content plans and audience engagement strategies. Define your purpose and measure your impact.

Now, coming back to the topic:

Unsubscribers: A Hidden Opportunity?

You might think that when someone unsubscribes from your emails, it's game over. But what if I told you it could be the start of something incredible? That's right – every unsubscribe is a potential opportunity waiting to be unlocked.

The Cost of Unsubscribing

Let's start by understanding the true cost of losing a subscriber. It's not just about losing one email contact – it's about losing potential sales, engagement, and the chance to build a lasting relationship. In short, it's a big deal.

Why You Need an Email Unsubscribe Strategy

Dealing with unsubscribes can be tricky, but it's essential to handle them right. Here's why:

  • Avoid Spam Labels: If it's hard to unsubscribe, customers might flag your emails as spam, hurting your sender reputation.

  • Keep Your Rep Clean: Just because they're leaving now doesn't mean they won't come back. Respect their choice to maintain your brand's rep.

  • Focus on the Good Stuff: Quality over quantity! Concentrate on engaging subscribers who want to hear from you.

  • Get Real Insights: Unsubscribes give you valuable feedback on what's working and what's not in your email campaigns.

Crafting the Perfect Unsubscribe Page

When it comes to unsubscribes, the key is to make the process as seamless and painless as possible. Your unsubscribe page should be clear, easy to find, and offer options for subscribers to update their preferences if they wish.

Key Components of an Effective Unsubscribe Page

Consistent Design and Branding: Reflect your brand's identity through consistent use of logos, fonts, and colours for brand recall.

Clear and Descriptive Heading: Use a direct and clear heading, such as "We're sorry to see you go," to communicate the page's intent immediately.

Optimised Unsubscribe Confirmation Message: Validate the user's action, express gratitude, and propose alternatives for staying in touch, such as social media.

Feedback Form: Include a simple form asking for the reason behind the unsubscribe decision to gain valuable feedback.

Alternative Content: Provide links to social platforms, newsletter archives, and engaging videos to encourage subscribers to reconsider their decision.

Converting Unsubscribers into Customers

Now for the million-dollar question: how do you transform unsubscribers into your most loyal customers? The key lies in offering value, incentives, and personalised experiences that give them compelling reasons to reconsider their decision. Here's a quick guide on how to achieve this:

Offer Value: Show them what they're missing with compelling content and exclusive updates.

Personalise Experiences: Tailor recommendations and communications to their interests for a more engaging experience.

Exclusive Offers: Roll out the red carpet with VIP access, sneak peeks, and special perks they can't resist. Exclusive offers can make them feel valued and give them a reason to come back.

Feedback Loop: Provide an easy way for them to share why they unsubscribed and use that insight to improve.

Relevance: Remind them of what they enjoyed about Your brand and how you can continue to meet their needs. Engage with them on a personal level, acknowledging their preferences and demonstrating a genuine interest in their satisfaction.

Build Relationships: Make them feel valued and appreciated to forge long-lasting connections beyond a simple subscription. Engage with them on a personal level, acknowledging their preferences and demonstrating a genuine interest in their satisfaction.

8 Brilliant Unsubscribe Page Examples that get customers to re-subscribe

1. J Crews:

J Crews doesn't just let customers slip away unnoticed. Their unsubscribe page takes responsibility, offers choices upfront, and strikes an emotional chord with a simple yet effective message. It's like having a heartfelt conversation with a trusted friend.

2. Top Shop:

Top Shop's unsubscribe page is a lesson in simplicity and transparency. They lay out the options clearly, making it easy for customers to make a decision. Plus, their subtle emotional appeal might just make customers think twice before clicking that unsubscribe button.

3. PetSmart:

PetSmart's unsubscribe page is a perfect blend of nostalgia and clarity. By reminding customers of the positive experiences they've had together, PetSmart makes unsubscribing a thoughtful decision rather than a reflexive one.

4. Eurostar:

Eurostar's unsubscribe page stands out for its user-friendliness and transparency. With a simple form and clear instructions, they make it easy for customers to opt out while reassuring them that they won't miss out on important updates.

5. Bonobos:

Bonobos takes a creative approach to the unsubscribe process by offering customers options to customise their preferences. Their playful tone and clever visuals might just make customers reconsider their decision to leave.

6. Refinery29:

Refinery29's unsubscribe page is all about simplicity and clarity. With straightforward options and clear calls to action, they ensure that customers feel empowered to make the choice that's right for them.

7. Yankee Candle:

Yankee Candle keeps things hassle-free with a single-page unsubscribe process. By minimising form fields and streamlining the process, they make it easy for customers to opt out without any unnecessary friction.

8. Currys:

Currys knows how to highlight the benefits of staying subscribed while still respecting customers' decisions to unsubscribe. Their clear and obvious unsubscribe button ensures that customers can opt out with ease if they choose to do so.

In the world of email marketing, unsubscribers aren't endings; they're opportunities in disguise. So, let's flip the script. Embrace the departure, refine your approach, and watch as lost connections find their way back. It's not goodbye; it's a chance to rewrite the story.

Subscribe to keep reading

This content is free, but you must be subscribed to continue reading.

Already a subscriber?Sign In.Not now