If you’re ready to start building an email list full of aligned, potential clients — but feel overwhelmed trying to set up your first freebie — this is for you.
Creating a freebie (aka lead magnet) is one of the most powerful ways to attract your dream clients, build trust, and start genuine conversations. And with tools like Flodesk and Canva, it’s never been easier to create something beautiful and strategic — even if you’re just starting out.
Let’s walk through the step-by-step process of creating and delivering your first freebie (plus I’ve included a free Canva template to help you design it fast).
✨ Step 1: Choose the Right Freebie Idea
Before you jump into designing, get clear on what you’re offering — and why it matters to your audience.
Ask yourself:
- What does my ideal client need before they’re ready to hire me?
- What’s one quick win I can help them achieve?
- What topic could I confidently guide someone through today?
Some freebie ideas for creative founders:
- A branding or website checklist
- Copywriting prompts or journaling questions
- An audit or quiz (ex: “Is Your Homepage Ready to Convert?”)
- A mini guide (like this one!)
- A swipe file (Instagram captions, launch timeline, etc.)
💡 Pro Tip: Keep it super focused. One clear win is better than five vague ones.
🎨 Step 2: Design Your Freebie in Canva
Now that you have your topic, it’s time to make it look good. Canva makes it easy to create beautiful, on-brand PDFs — no design experience needed.
What to include in your freebie PDF:
- Cover page – Add your freebie title + brand visuals
- Intro/welcome – A note about who it’s for + how to use it
- Main content – Your checklist, guide, prompts, etc.
- CTA – Invite them to explore your services or book a call
To make this even easier, I created a free Canva template you can use and customize.
👉 Click here to grab the Canva Freebie Template
📩 Step 3: Deliver Your Freebie with Flodesk
Once your PDF is ready, it’s time to connect it to your email list — and make sure it gets into your subscriber’s inbox.
Here’s how to do it step-by-step in Flodesk:
1. Create your opt-in form
- Go to “Forms” in Flodesk and choose a format: popup, inline, or full page
- Add a compelling headline + a short description of the freebie
- Customize the fonts, colors, and imagery to match your brand
- Create a new segment (ex: “Freebie – Website Copy Prompts”)
2. Build a delivery workflow
- Go to “Workflows” and create a new automation
- Trigger: “When someone is added to [your segment]”
- Email step: Write your delivery email + add a download link (host your freebie on Google Drive, Canva, or your site)
3. Customize your email
Subject line: Your Freebie Is Here! 🎉
Body: Thank them for signing up, briefly explain the value of the freebie, and include a download button. End with a soft CTA like checking out your blog, following you on Instagram, or booking a clarity call.
💌 Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget to Follow Up
Once they’ve downloaded the freebie, keep the conversation going. A simple 2–3 email nurture sequence can help build trust and guide them toward your services.
Want help writing that sequence? I’ve got templates for that too — just ask.
🚀 Ready to Create Your First Freebie?
You don’t need to overthink it or wait until it’s perfect. One focused, helpful resource can be the start of a client relationship that changes everything.
✨ Grab the Free Canva Freebie Template
✨ Sign up for Flodesk if you haven’t already
And if you want personalized help building your lead magnet or mapping out your welcome sequence — I offer VIP Days for that too. Just reach out.
