So I'd say my mailing list popup is definitely NOT converting. Tips?

My site gets about 500 visitors per day. I recently(I know, I'm a total idiot for just now doing this) installed a mailing list popup box which displays on exit intent. I set it up 2 days ago and have 2 subscribers. So, by my calculations, that's a 0.02% conversion rate:shock:. I'm definitely not a guru but I'd say that isn't working.

The text on my popup says something like "Never miss another article - subscribe to receive updates free" and the line below reads "we don't send out weekly junk mailers, just the good stuff". Then it's a name and email form and "Subscribe" button.

This is my first shot at building a list and I think I can do better than 0.02% conversion - right? (please say right...)

Suggestions? Insults?

You should probably offer them something free to get more opt ins. Depending on your niche, is there any piece of information you can give them immediately after subscribing? This usually boosts email conversions up to a much healthier number.

You say you have it pop up on exit intent which to me means you have lost the visitor already. Try capturing when they arrive on your page. And giveaway something for free in exchange as the above person says. Some niches and people don't like popups or pop unders. Test out side bar sign up forms. Try a post selling your free giveaway with the sole purpose of getting subscribers. So a strong call to action. If your using something like aweber you can split test everything. Split test sign up forms text and call to action. When split testing only change one variable at a time so you know what's working. If you really want to build a list you will need to design your site in a way that focuses on getting sign ups.

The above are just some points I can think off in a couple of minutes. Read some authority's on list building. There's so much information on list building and emailing because it makes money. So well worth the investment of time and energy learning to do it correctly.

Good luck.

Good advice. I appreciate your time - both of you! A giveaway..... Ok, now the wheels are turning. Thanks for this insight.

Maybe offer exclusive content for signing up for the mailing list. Maybe some unique bit of info that only people to your subscribers will see.