Lead Magnets: Your Secret Weapon for Business Growth

How to Get New Leads for Your Small Business

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “How do I get more leads?” you’re not alone. Whether you’re brand new or looking to grow, lead generation is the heartbeat of your business. In a recent episode of The Other 99% podcast, we broke down simple, real-life strategies that actually work.

What Is a Lead and Why It Matters

Let’s start with the basics. A lead is simply someone who has shown interest in what you offer and has shared their contact info in return. It could be a name and email address, or even a phone number. These are the people you get to nurture, educate, and eventually convert into loyal customers.

The Power of Lead Magnets

A lead magnet is a freebie you offer in exchange for someone’s contact information. The best ones solve a small problem or deliver a quick win your audience actually wants. And here’s the beauty of it—it doesn’t have to be related directly to your product.

Creative Lead Magnet Ideas

We shared tons of ideas in the episode, but here are a few favorites:

• A list of bug-repelling backyard plants
• A baking substitution cheat sheet
• A kitchen measurement conversion chart
• A skincare routine guide
• Nail polish color matching quizzes
• Jewelry styling tips
• A video tutorial or quick tip

Make Your Offer Valuable

The key is VALUE. If someone hands over their email address and your freebie falls flat, they’ll likely unsubscribe immediately. So make sure it solves a real problem, entertains, or inspires.

Collecting Leads: Online and Offline

You don’t have to be tech-savvy to start collecting leads. There are simple ways to do it whether you’re at a vendor event or working online.

Using Digital Forms and QR Codes

Tools like My Hi, Google Forms, or JotForm let you create quick, mobile-friendly forms. Add the link to your bio, email signature, or create a QR code to display at events. Someone scans, submits the form, and gets your freebie right to their inbox. Magic!

Don’t Let Paper Leads Go Cold

Still using paper forms? Totally fine—but have a plan. Set a time block in your calendar after each event to enter those leads into a spreadsheet or email platform. If you wait too long, people forget who you are, and reaching out becomes awkward.

Follow-Up Made Simple with Automation

Automation is the secret sauce to making all this work without the overwhelm.

Welcome Sequences that Build Trust

A great welcome sequence sounds like: “Hi, I’m Lisa! Here’s a fun fact about me.” Then a follow-up: “Did you know I co-host The Other 99% podcast?” By the time you mention your product, they’ve already gotten to know you and want to hear more.

Tools That Help You Stay Consistent

Platforms like My Hi make automation a breeze. You can set up lead magnets, forms, tagging, and email sequences that run while you sleep. No more stressing about who to message or when to follow up.

Nurture Over Noise: Building a Real Relationship

Your goal isn’t just to sell. It’s to build trust. Share tips, stories, and resources that make your emails something people actually want to open. When you show up consistently with value, you stay top of mind.

What to Do With Cold or Old Leads

Got a stack of contacts from months ago? Don’t panic. Send a “warm-up” email. Be honest, lighthearted, and give them a reason to stay. Offer a new freebie or invite them to your latest blog or Facebook group. And always, always give them the easy option to unsubscribe if they’re no longer interested.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

If you’re not getting leads, you’re not growing. But lead generation doesn’t have to be scary or time-consuming. Use the tools and tips from this post (and our podcast!) to simplify and systemize your efforts. Start small, provide value, and most of all, keep going.

Call-to-Action: Tune into The Other 99% podcast for more practical tips on growing your business with heart, hustle, and the power of automation.