The Subscription Page Formula: Best Practices Blueprint

Pete Ericson, CEO & FounderZEEN101

Your subscription landing page is critical to converting paid subscribers.

This podcast will teach you how to improve paid conversions with the right landing page layout. Join us to find out what actually works.

This podcast (video version below) offers insights for simplifying your subscription page with clear options, prominent buttons, rich content, testimonials, and streamlined checkout to maximize conversions and subscription revenue. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Simplify Decision Making: One of the most crucial aspects of an effective subscription page is simplicity. Offering too many options can lead to “analysis paralysis” where potential subscribers are overwhelmed and end up making no decision at all. For example, Netflix offers only one monthly recurring plan to keep the decision-making process straightforward. One option is best.
  2. Prominent Subscription Button: Ensure your subscription button is easily accessible and stands out. It should ideally be a button rather than a text link, placed prominently in the menu. This button should also have a background to make it more noticeable. Additionally, placing the login text next to the subscription button can also improve visibility and ease of access.
  3. Rich Landing Page Content: Your landing page should be informative and engaging. It should include:
    • An introduction with a personal touch, such as a message from the editor.
    • 1 or 2 clear subscription options to avoid confusing the reader.
    • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to address common concerns and reassure potential subscribers.
  4. Testimonial Inclusion: Testimonials from satisfied readers can build trust and provide social proof. Including three testimonials with photos can be effective. If you cater to businesses, consider displaying logos of companies that subscribe to your publication.
  5. Annual vs. Monthly Subscriptions: Focus on promoting annual subscriptions as they tend to have higher conversion rates and simplify the decision-making process. If monthly options are necessary, they can be included but should not dominate the subscription options.
  6. Two-Button Upsell: Implement a two-button upsell strategy. This means having one button for a standard subscription and another for gifting a subscription. For business-to-business (B2B) publishers, the second button can be for group or organizational subscriptions.
  7. Double Discount Strategy: To enhance the appeal of your subscription, offer a double discount. For example, offer the first three months (of a monthly plan) for the price of one and then provide an additional discount for an annual subscription. This strategy leverages the appeal of initial savings and a hidden deal to encourage longer-term commitments. Keep in mind that potential subscribers will read all the copy on your subscription cards.
  8. Clean and Focused Checkout Process: Ensure the checkout page is free from distractions like ads and unnecessary menu options. The focus should be solely on completing the subscription process. Keep the registration form and subscription details clear and concise.
  9. Optimize Newsletter Funnel: Use a free registration funnel to build your email list and nurture potential subscribers through regular, engaging newsletters. This approach can gradually convert free readers into paying subscribers by consistently providing value and enticing content.

By following these best practices, you can create a subscription page that is both effective and user-friendly, leading to increased conversions and subscription revenue.

Listen to this audio podcast here: paywallpodcast.com.


Watch the videocast

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Peter Ericson

Want to learn more about growing your audience and converting subscribers with your paywall? Get in touch with Pete.

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