Zoom has become a household name brand ever since a certain global event in 2020. From running online classes and connecting us to our loved ones to international business meetings, Zoom has continued to help us all stay connected in our work and personal lives.

But have you considered how you can leverage Zoom to build your online community and bring in more revenue?

Find out how you can sell exclusive access to your time and expertise with our Zoom integration.

Add value to your online course, create a VIP experience for higher-tiered members, or simply provide another channel to engage with your community directly.

This integration offers up a ton of opportunities for you to expand your online offerings and monetize your time and expertise.

Why Zoom?

Before we go any further, here are a few reasons why Zoom is the best solution for offering paid calls on your site:

1. Price: Zoom is free for up to 100 attendees and meetings up to 40 mins long. That's plenty for most users, however if you need a bit more space and time, their pro plan will set you back just $13.32/month and will buy you 300 attendees and 30 hours (?!?!) of meeting time.
2. Ubiquity & Familiarity: Chances are most of your members already have Zoom downloaded on at least one of their devices, and they already know how it works. It's just one less friction point for your user experience on your site.
3. Availability: Zoom has apps for every operating service and platform including Android and iOS.
4. Breakout Rooms: With Zoom's “Breakout Room” feature you can split attendees into smaller, more manageable groups.

Overall, it's an affordable, flexible solution that's easy for every business to incorporate into their tech stack, and easier still for your members to use.

How to Make Money From Zoom Calls: Some Inspo

So how can you offer paid Zoom calls on your site to create value for your business? Here are a few use cases to help inspire you!

1. Host Weekly Q&As

Use Zoom calls to chat directly with your members on a regular basis! Hosting weekly Q&A sessions allows you to connect in real-time, answering their burning questions and sharing your insights.

• Fitness trainers can provide live advice on workout routines.
• Business coaches can troubleshoot specific challenges members are facing.
• Tech gurus can help people master new software.
• Nutritionists can discuss healthy eating habits.

These interactive sessions keep your community engaged and coming back for more.

2. Sell 1:1 Consultations

Go global and offer your expertise to an international audience. 1:1 Zoom consultations are ideal for professionals who typically sell in-person consultations but want to break free from geographical limitations. Remote working just got a whole lot more accessible.

Here are some of the ways professionals can benefit from this set up:

• Business coaches can provide bespoke support that caters to individual needs.
• Architects and engineers can offer detailed consultations and project advice.
• Career advisors can help clients prep for big interviews.
• Beauty consultants can give personalized skincare advice.

Sell subscriptions for a convenient way to provide ongoing access to your expertise, and add a personal touch to your online services that clients will find invaluable.

3. Run Recurring Live Classes

Enhance your online learning experience with live classes on Zoom! Online course creators can significantly add value to their course and improve learning outcomes by offering personalized tuition 1:1 or in small groups online.

• Fitness instructors can conduct live workout sessions, correcting form in real-time.
• Chefs can run live cooking classes, guiding participants step-by-step.
• Language tutors can offer live conversational practice sessions.
• Creative writing instructors can lead interactive workshops.

These classes make learning fun and engaging, keeping members hooked and loyal to your brand.

4. Lead Study Groups

Another way to add value to your online course is to facilitate study groups via members-only Zoom sessions. Perfect for creating a collaborative learning environment.

• Educators can lead study groups for exam preparation.
• Tutors can organize study sessions for difficult subjects.
• Book club organizers can host discussions on the latest reads.

Study groups encourage peer support, build your online community and help learners stay focused and achieve their goals

5. Run a Mastermind Group

If you run an online community of professionals or hobbyists, a mastermind group is a great way to enhance collaboration and add value for your members. These small, focused groups encourage networking and help peers learn from each-others experiences.

• Entrepreneurs can brainstorm business strategies.
• Writers can seek feedback on their latest work.
• Health coaches can exchange client success stories.
• Startup founders can share their latest growth hacks.

Mastermind groups foster a sense of community and collective growth, making your membership site a hub for innovation and support.

This list of use cases for paid Zoom calls is by no means exhaustive. These are just a few ways you can enhance your membership site, offering more value and creating deeper connections with your community.

How to Sell Zoom Calls and Sessions on Your Site

Hopefully your brain is alight with ideas on how you can cash in on paid Zoom calls for your business. Now it's time to show you just how easy it is. Starting with the tools you'll need for the job…

Tools You Need

Here's a short list of the essentials to start charging for Zoom calls on your site.

WordPress

If you haven’t set up a WordPress site yet, consider it your gateway to building an online empire. This intuitive platform offers a strong foundation for your website.

With a vast range of themes and plugins at your disposal, you can easily craft a beautiful and flexible site tailored to your needs, whatever industry you're in!

In fact, WordPress is the engine that powers 43% of all websites on the internet!

WishList Member Pro

WishList Member is the go-to plugin for intuitively creating and managing memberships and exclusive content on your site.

WishList Member makes it easy to create unlimited membership tiers and manage access to content.

Plus our CourseCure Courses add-on transforms WishList Member into a feature-packed Learning Management System, enabling you to offer engaging online courses on your WordPress site, all packed neatly into one plugin.

But what really makes WishList Member stand out from its competitors is its extensive library of inbuilt integrations. WishList Member supports 80+ integrations with popular apps and services from payment providers to email marketing tools, CRM systems, and, of course, Zoom!

All this means that WishList Member can seamlessly fit into your existing workflow, enhancing your site's functionality and providing a seamless experience for your members.

Sign up for a pro account for access to the Zoom integration.

Zoom Account

Of course, to use the WishList Member x Zoom integration, you'll need a Zoom account (that is, if you don't already have one.)

We've already covered some of the reasons why Zoom is the go-to platform for online video conferencing, known for its reliability and broad feature set.

To get started, simply sign up and choose the plan that best fits your needs. With options ranging from a free plan suitable for smaller sessions to more robust plans that can handle hundreds of participants and extended meeting durations, Zoom offers flexibility to match your business's needs and stage of growth.

Create a Paid Membership Level On WishList Member

If you don't already have membership levels on your site, it's time to create them! This will be the way that your site's visitors can access Zoom meeting information on your website.

If you're new to WishList Member, navigate to WishList Member > Setup > Getting Started to begin the setup wizard.

There, you'll find steps to create a new membership level and integrate with a payment service provider (e.g., Stripe) to charge for recurring or one-time payments for access to your protected content.

Enable and Configure the Zoom Integration in WishList Member

As with all our integrations, connecting Zoom to WishList Member is straightforward and intuitive. After enabling the integration, the process looks like this:

1. Create your meetings in Zoom,
2. Assign them to membership levels in WishList Member,
3. Display meeting information to your members wherever you like on your site with automatically generated shortcodes.

For a clear, step-by-step guide on enabling the Zoom integration and connecting your Zoom account to your WishList Member account, watch our video tutorial, and for even more information, check out our Zoom Integration with WishList Member knowledge doc >>

And here's what the meeting information will look like to logged in members on your site:

As you can see, your members can filter to view Upcoming Meetings or Previous Meetings. By clicking on Meeting Details they can view the date, time, duration and join URL, and even add the upcoming meeting to their calendar with a click of a button.

Where to Display Your Exclusive Zoom Calls: Get Creative!

WishList Member is a highly flexible membership plugin. There are countless ways to protect access to content on your site. You can get really creative about where you want to place Zoom meeting information on your site!

Think about what kind of meetings you're creating and when it will be useful to display this information to your members.

For example, if your Zoom meetings consist of study groups and live classes to supplement your online course, you can include meeting information within a module.

Or if you run a networking event, consider integrating Zoom call links into a dedicated events calendar page so that members can intuitively find upcoming events.

You could also integrate access directly within member profiles. This would be especially useful for consultations or coaching sessions. Members could log in to their profiles and have immediate access to their upcoming scheduled sessions, past session recordings, and quick links to join live events, keeping everything centralized.

By being strategic about where you display your Zoom calls on your site, you make it convenient for your members to access calls while also emphasizing the exclusive benefits of joining your community.

Time for a Price Hike?

We've said it before, but it bears repeating: direct access to your time and expertise is a premium perk that adds real value to your memberships and online courses – and it deserves a premium price tag!

Review your existing pricing structure and make sure you're compensated for the extra labor that goes into hosting live Zoom sessions!

Rather than incorporating Zoom sessions into existing membership tiers, why not introduce a special membership level exclusively for these calls? This new tier can be positioned as a premium add-on, allowing you to upsell to your current members and enhance the perceived value of joining your community.

Of course, you need to decide what makes most sense for your business model, just make sure you take full advantage of this top-tier, high-value offering to maximize your earnings!

Cash In on Your Calls Today with Zoom and WishList Member

The Zoom integration is yet another way you can use WishList Member to create a more dynamic, engaging experience for your online community.

By hosting your Zoom calls through WishList Member, every session is a chance to connect deeply, share valuable insights, and keep everyone coming back for more. From in-depth training sessions to quick check-ins, you’re building a community that looks forward to logging in.

But this setup doesn’t just keep your members happy – it also opens the door to new revenue streams. Whether it’s through exclusive courses or special access events, every interaction is an opportunity to boost your business.

Ready to turn those calls into cash? Let’s get your Zoom and WishList Member integration up and running today!

Enjoyed this article? Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Plus, get notified about feature updates, upgrades, and more when you subscribe to our newsletter!

You know your members' frustration because you've experienced it yourself. You go to log in to a site and realize you've completely forgotten your password.

Even worse, you're logging in on a new device so you can't use your password manager. And besides, why did you need to create a 12-character password for your coffee subscription anyway?

These micro frustrations can mean the difference between a successful log in and a user opting out entirely. And that can spell disaster for your bottom line.

Fortunately, there's a simple and increasingly popular solution to this common problem, and now it's available for all WishList Member Pro and Elite users: social login.

Designed to streamline the sign-in process, this feature enhances user experience, which in turn boosts member engagement and loyalty.

Let's look at exactly how the social login feature can benefit your business and how to easily set it up in WishList Member.

What is Social Login?

Social login is a user authentication method that allows individuals to sign into a website using their existing social media accounts, such as Google, Facebook, or Twitter.

Instead of remembering yet another username and password, users can simply use their social media credentials to access their existing accounts.

For WordPress sites, integrating social login means providing a seamless, user-friendly experience. Members can access their accounts quickly, reducing the friction that often leads to abandoned logins and lost engagement.

No more forgotten passwords or complicated recovery processes. Just a smooth, hassle-free login experience that keeps them coming back.

Benefits of Offering Social Login on Your WordPress Site

It might seem like a small adjustment, but adding social login to your site can have a surprisingly big impact on your bottom line. There are multiple benefits that all add up – making it a no-brainer for your business.

1. Keep Members Happy with Streamlined User Experience

We're neck deep in the age of convenience. From 5G internet to Amazon Prime, the average consumer expects everything to arrive yesterday.

For better or worse, people are increasingly intolerant of any kind of friction when it comes to making purchases and accessing services.

For membership sites that rely on repeat visits, a suboptimal user experience (UX) just isn't an option.

If you want your business to stay afloat, let alone thrive, you need to put every effort into making it as easy as possible for your members to get around your site.

Fewer clicks, less frustration, that's the key – and it all starts with the login.

Social login means that your members don't have to exert any kind of mental energy trying to retrieve their unique username and password from their brain banks. Instead, all it takes is a couple of clicks and they're in! It doesn't get any smoother than that.

2. #Hassle-Free Admin

Let’s face it – no one enjoys dealing with password resets or the dreaded account recovery process. By cutting down on these issues, social login simultaneously reduces the strain on your support team and keeps your users happy and engaged.

In short, social login can cut down on operational headaches that cost your team time and money.

3. Increased Member Confidence – Trust in the Trend

Social logins lend a sense of reliability and trust to your site – users experience less friction when something feels familiar and secure.

When users see options like Google, Facebook, or Twitter, they recognize these platforms' strong security measures and feel more confident about logging in.

This familiarity helps in reducing hesitation and builds immediate trust in your site.

Not to mention, social logins are now in common use on popular apps and online services.

4. Enhanced Retention Rates – Keep Reeling Them In

Ease of access plays a huge role in member retention.

By allowing users to re-enter your site with just a few clicks via their favorite social media accounts, you're making it even easier for them to engage and connect with your content.

Plus, social login reduces the risk of customer churn if they forget their password.

In a poll by Blue Research, 92% of respondents claimed that they had decided to leave a site rather than reset or recover login information, and 31% said they frequently do this.

By offering social logins, you minimize these instances and provide a positive ongoing experience that encourages users to associate your site with ease and reliability.

The result: members who are more willing to stay engaged and connected to your content and services.

With social login, you increase your chances of turning fleeting visitors into long-term members.

5. Improved Data Security

Every time a user has to create a memorable password, there's an opportunity for security risks to creep in.

Most people reuse the same passwords across multiple sites, which can turn one security breach into a domino effect of compromised accounts.

With social login, you're tapping into the advanced security networks of giants like Facebook and Google, handing off the heavy lifting of password management to those who do it best.

This means you’re less likely to face the nightmares of data breaches or security lapses that keep you up at night. Yet another reason to switch on this feature today.

How Social Login Can Increase Your Revenue

Here's the point of the matter: adding the option of social login to your WordPress membership site just makes good business sense.

All of the benefits above will have a cumulative effect on your bottom line. Let's summarize and break it down:

Enhanced Engagement = More Sales Opportunities

Social logins reduce barriers and encourage more frequent member interactions.

Easier access means users can quickly connect and engage with your content, meaning more opportunities to upsell your membership levels or cross-selling other products.

Less Churn = Higher Customer Lifetime Value

The longer you can keep members happy, engaged and coming back for more, the more money you stand to gain. With the recurring revenue model, the benefit of less churn cumulates month on month as your subscribers pay out.

Less Admin = More Value Creation

By minimizing the need for admin/support intervention, you have more time and resources to spend creating value for your members.

How to Add Social Logins To Your WordPress Site

Now you know all the reasons to set up social login on your WordPress site, it's time to show you how to add it with WishList Member.

To use this feature you will first need to purchase a WishList Member Pro or Elite plan and install and activate it on your site.

1. Install the Social Login Add-On

From your WordPress dashboard, head to WishList Member > Add-ons. Locate the Social Login add-on and hit Install.

2. Enable and Configure Your Chosen Social Providers

Once the add-on is installed, you will see a Social Login option in the WishList Member menu. Click on it, and then choose a social provider you'd like your users to connect to your site with.

Once you click on a provider, select the Enable Provider checkbox, and click the View Documentation link for a full step-by-step guide on how to connect your chosen social provider.

You can find the documentation for each social provider linked below:

• Google
• WordPress.com
• Facebook, and
• X (formerly Twitter)

And voila! You're all set up.

Repeat with as many social providers as you wish and when your customers login they'll see something like this:

3. Give Users The Option to Manually Connect

If the email your members use for their social login matches the email they used to register on your site, their social login will connect automatically.

However, if their emails are different, or if they want to connect via X, you'll need to provide an option for members to connect their social accounts manually once they're logged in.

WishList Member simplifies this process with easy-to-use shortcodes.

[wishlist_member_social_connect_disconnect]

Use this shortcode to add social Connect/Disconnect Buttons on any page on your site. We recommend adding it to your member dashboard page for an intuitive user experience.

The shortcode generates buttons and a description for each of the social providers configured on your site:

Now your users will have a quick and easy way to connect their social accounts and log in more quickly on their next visit!

You can read the full documentation for the WishList Member Social Login add-on here.

Get Access in a Snap with The WishList Member Social Login Add-On Today

Offering a social login on your WordPress site directly enhances the user experience and benefits your bottom line.

By allowing members to log in using their existing social media accounts, you streamline the sign-in process, reduce frustration, and build trust.

This results in higher engagement and retention rates, as members can access their accounts effortlessly and consistently.

For you as a membership site owner, these advantages translate into increased revenue opportunities. Easier access means more frequent interactions with your content, leading to more upselling and cross-selling possibilities.

Additionally, reducing password-related support issues allows your team to focus on creating value for your members, further boosting satisfaction and loyalty.

By offering a social login option, you enhance the user experience, creating a more efficient and ultimately more profitable membership site – which is our ultimate aim for you!

So now we've shown you how, it's over to you. Add social logins to your WordPress site with WishList Member and reap the rewards of improved engagement and retention for your online business.

Let us know how you plan to use the WishList Member Social Login add-on in the comments section below!

We'd all like to be the kind of people who learn for learning's sake. Sure, expanding your knowledge is a worthy way to spend your time, but in the world of TikTok and Instagram Reels, it's all about the dopamine hit.

Whether we like it or not, students of all ages have decreased attention spans. As an online course creator, it's hard to compete with the instant gratifications offered up on competing websites and apps. So if you can't beat them, join them.

By adding gamification elements like points, badges, and quizzes to your courses, you align with the fast-paced, reward-driven mindset of today's learners.

This approach keeps them engaged and helps them retain more information and complete courses more effectively. Plus, a gamified learning experience encourages students to enroll in more courses, driving your success in the competitive field of online education.

Read on as we guide you through how to successfully integrate gamification into your WordPress LMS, helping you make the most of the benefits of gamification for your online course.

Let's transform your courses into engaging, addictive learning experiences!

What is LMS Gamification?

With LMS gamification, you're adding game-like elements to your online course.

These include points, badges, and other rewards for completing tasks and mastering content.

Remember the kick you got from getting a gold star at elementary school? Well, it turns out that people love getting these rewards at every age. If you've ever tried mastering a language on Duolingo, you know firsthand the power of points, leaderboards, and even simple rewards. 

Who knew it was so satisfying for a cartoon owl to tell you you're doing a great job?

By integrating these gamification elements into your LMS, you can create a more engaging and rewarding learning experience. This keeps learners motivated and encourages them to push through challenging material and achieve their learning goals.

7 Benefits of LMS Gamification

Let's look more closely at the benefits associated with course gamification:

1. Boosts Engagement and Interaction

First and foremost, gamification makes learning fun, keeping learners excited to participate. 

Points and badges serve as positive reinforcement for participating in your online course. This gives students further incentive to continue engaging with your course content, while interactive elements like quizzes help create a more dynamic experience that holds the learners' interest.

2. Improves Retention and Comprehension of Material

Reward improves retention. By giving students a concrete and immediate reason to memorize information (e.g. to earn points in a quiz), they'll put more effort into absorbing the source material.

3. Encourages Consistent Progress

Clear goals and instant feedback keep learners on track. When they can see their progress, they're more motivated to reach the next level.

4. Fosters Healthy Competition

Spur learners to improve and excel with leaderboards and challenges. A little friendly competition can go a long way in driving performance.

5. Increases Course Completion Rates

Engaged and motivated learners are more likely to finish courses. Gamification helps keep them hooked from start to finish.

6. Adds Value to Your Course

For all of the reasons above, gamification adds to the appeal of your online course. By adding a few simple features to your course you'll make it more sellable, and/or be able to charge more for it.

7. Promotes Long-Term Learning

The satisfaction of earning rewards encourages learners to keep coming back for more, leading to continuous learning and skill development, and ultimately more business for you!

By incorporating gamification elements you're adding value to your course, enhancing your students' experience, improving their success rates and setting yourself up for repeat business all at once.

LMS Gamification Techniques and Best Practices

How can you make gamification work on your elearning website? We'll run you through the key elements and best practices you can easily incorporate into your online course.

Quizzes

First off, you need to establish a way for your students to earn points. You could reward learners for simply reading course material, but quizzes go a step further by enabling you to measure how well they've absorbed the material, and reward their efforts accordingly.

Quizzes also add an interactive element to the course, making it more dynamic than watching videos and reading content.

A simple multiple choice question at the end of each module can be enough to help reinforce the material covered and allow learners to test their understanding before moving on to new content. However, to really amp up gamification, you might want to include a short quiz at the end of each lesson.

A quick dopamine hit at regular intervals will help boost engagement and give more opportunities for students to rack up their scores.

Points Systems

Points are the bread and butter of LMS gamification. Optimize your rewards system by awarding a different number of points for different achievements based on their complexity. For example:

• Reward students with 1 point for simple actions such as logging in, completing a lesson or leaving a comment,
• 5 points for more involved actions such as completing a module
• and 10 points for actions that require more effort such as successfully completing a quiz.

The important thing is to set up a fair point distribution system to appropriately reward participation and effort.

Leaderboards

Now your students can earn points, it's time to give them a reason to rack them up!

Leaderboards are an easy way to create a sense of competition, and encourage your top-performing students to push even harder to get that coveted top spot.

You could simply display lifetime points to reward your most loyal users, but more casual users won't reap the same benefits. Use daily or monthly leaderboards to:

a) encourage constant participation and

b) level the playing field and motivate newer participants who have not been involved for as long to become top scorers.

Point Redemption

Give points more meaning by enabling students to redeem them for rewards. This could be anything from digital badges to discounts on future courses, unlocking new levels or exclusive content.

By offering tangible rewards for points, you'll keep your students engaged and further incentivize continuous learning and participation.

Badges

Badges turn accomplishments into celebrations.

Unlike points, which can feel abstract, badges offer a visual and tangible sense of achievement. Offer badges to serve as a proud display of a student's progress and milestones like finishing lessons, scoring points, or commenting a certain number of times on your site.

With badges, you add an extra dose of fun and motivation to your LMS gamification strategy, making the learners' experience more engaging and rewarding.

Adding Gamification with WishList Member Add-ons

WishList Member is a WordPress LMS and membership plugin that makes it easy to add all of the above-listed gamification elements to your online course via add-ons.

You can see which add-ons are available on your current WishList Member plan by going to WishList Member > Add-ons.

Here is where you'll also be able to activate the add-ons you want to incorporate into your LMS.

Let's take a look at each of the add-ons and how you can use them to create an engaging online course on your WordPress site.

CourseCure Courses

The CourseCure Courses add-on transforms WishList Member into an LMS plugin.

Available on all WishList Member plans, CourseCure Courses enables you set up unlimited courses on your WordPress site.

Easily build out your course with lessons and modules using CourseCure's intuitive interface.

Add content to your lessons with WordPress's Gutenberg editor, enabling you to incorporate video content, widgets, images, and more.

With CourseCure Courses, you can create a dynamic and engaging learning experience for your students.

With your courses set up, it's now time to gamify them!

CourseCure Quizzes

Available with WishList Member Pro and Elite plans, the CourseCure Quizzes add-on lets you easily create and drag and drop quizzes into your modules. Add quizzes at the end of each lesson, module, or as often as you deem necessary throughout your course to keep learners engaged with interactive content.

Set a “Passing Score” on your quiz to determine how many questions learners will need to answer correctly before being able to advance in the course.

You can also set up automations when someone passes or fails a quiz.

For example you can:

• Automatically send a congratulatory email with next steps when a learner passes a quiz.
• Unlock a new membership level for learners who successfully complete a quiz to encourage further progress.
• Provide additional resources to students who fail a quiz to help them improve.

Make the most of the CourseCure Quizzes add-on, and you'll not only boost engagement but also give your students the best chance of mastering your material, increasing their satisfaction and the likelihood of repeat business.

WishList Member Points

WishList Member Plus, Pro and Elite customers get access to the Points add-on.

You can use points to reward engagement across your entire site. For example, you can award points for logging in or posting a comment.

But points really excel when used for LMS gamification.

Reward points when students pass a quiz or complete a course, a lesson or a module.

Conversely, you can use the points add-on to subtract points when learners fail a quiz or remove a comment.

The WishList Member Points add-on also comes with a Points Leaderboard Widget which you can display anywhere on your site.

Choose whether to display top scorers based on lifetime points, monthly points or daily points.

Finally, with the Points add-on you can enable learners to redeem points for rewards such as:

• Access to exclusive content
• Membership upgrades
• Badges (if the WishList Member Badges add-on is activated.)

When users know they can get something in exchange for points, it ups the ante, increasing their overall participation and engagement in your course.

WishList Member Badges

Available on WishList Member Plus, Pro, and Elite plans, the Badges add-on lets you award badges to customers when they achieve certain milestones or complete certain actions on your site.

Give customers a shiny symbol of their progress when they:

• Complete their first lesson/ module
• Reach a certain point in the course
• Leave a certain number of comments
• Reaching a point milestone
• Pass a quiz

The add-on comes with its own library of ready-to-use badges.

Alternatively, you can upload your own branded badge to create a unique experience for your learners.

In Summary

Embracing LMS gamification is a smart strategy to make learning more engaging and effective. By integrating points, badges, and quizzes to your online course, you cater to modern learners' need for instant gratification and rewards, making education more fun and improving learner outcomes.

Use WishList Member's add-ons to seamlessly incorporate these gamification strategies. Your students will enjoy a more interactive and rewarding learning journey, and you'll see better engagement, higher completion rates, and more repeat business.

Start gamifying your courses today and turn them into engaging, addictive learning experiences that keep students coming back for more. Gamify your LMS and watch your success grow!

We'd love to hear your thoughts!

Have you tried gamification in your online courses? How did it impact your students' engagement and completion rates? Share your experiences, tips, and questions in the comments below! Let's start a conversation and help each other create the best learning experiences possible.

And don' forget to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn for more expert advice and tips to optimize your online course.

It's hard to overstate just how much affiliate marketing dominates the ecommerce marketing landscape. In 2022 the affiliate marketing industry was valued at over $20 billion, a figure that's projected to almost double by 2030.

That's particularly impressive when you consider that for the most part affiliate marketers only get paid a commission once they've made a sale. We're talking about trillions of dollars of sales and revenue generated by this one marketing strategy.

If your business hasn't yet tapped into affiliate marketing, or if you're looking to pivot away from costly affiliate platforms to grow your membership site, this latest integration is exciting news for your business and your pocket.

Introducing Easy Affiliate – the all-in-one affiliate program plugin for WordPress that now natively integrates with WishList Member.

Read on for a guided tour of the main features of this plugin complete with tips on how to leverage its profit-pumping potential for your business.

Affiliate Marketing 101

First, just in case you're completely new to affiliate marketing, here's a quick explanation to bring you up to speed:

Affiliate marketing is a widely used strategy where individuals are rewarded for promoting a business's products or services. Essentially, when a sale is made through their unique referral link, the affiliate marketer (or simply affiliate) earns a commission from the seller.

This marketing technique offers a number of benefits for membership and ecommerce sites:

• With affiliate marketing, you only pay out once a sale has been made. That makes it a low-risk cost-effective way to expand your membership base without the upfront costs associated with traditional advertising methods.
  
  
• Its performance-based nature also means it's easily scalable and suitable for membership sites at any stage of their growth. As your subscriber base grows exponentially you won't have to deal with a corresponding increase in marketing effort or expense.
  
  
• Affiliates, especially those who are well-aligned with your site's focus, can directly reach specific, niche audiences. Run a soccer club fanzine, or a vegan cooking school? Niche affiliates are the best people to spread the word. And with them on side, your marketing efforts will be highly targeted, attracting members who are more likely to engage with your content and community.
  
  
• Unlike one-time ad campaigns, affiliate marketing provides ongoing promotion for your membership site. This continuous exposure helps keep your site top-of-mind and attracts new members over time.

Now you're all caught up on affiliate marketing, and its potential for your business is clear, it's time to take a look at what the Easy Affiliate integration means for your membership site.

What is Easy Affiliate?

Easy Affiliate allows you to run a fully self-hosted affiliate marketing program straight from your WordPress dashboard.

By running a self-hosted affiliate program, you have more say over your affiliate application process, have direct control over commissions and payouts, and skip the transaction fees charged by third-party platforms.

And as the name suggests, it makes the whole process of setting up and running your program a breeze – no special knowledge required, virtually anyone can make this work for their business.

That's because Easy Affiliate is packed with all the tools and systems you need to make your program a success, each designed specifically to be easy to set up and use.

So let the tour of key features commence!

Easy Affiliate Features and Tips For Success

Effortlessly Connect to Your Ecommerce Plugins

At the click of a button, Easy Affiliate can detect and connect with key ecommerce platforms including yours truly (WishList Member), PayPal and WooCommerce.

You can enable your integrations either during Easy Affiliate's setup wizard process, or by heading to Easy Affiliate > Settings > eCommerce tab.

It really is that easy to connect your affiliate program to the products and services you sell on your website.

Screen For High Quality, Valuable Affiliates

Opening your affiliate program to everyone might seem like a good idea, but in affiliate marketing, quantity doesn't always equal quality.

Research shows that less than 10% of affiliates are responsible for 90% of total conversions and sales. This highlights the importance of focusing on attracting and working with those top performers.

Simply accepting all applicants can divert time and resources away from nurturing valuable relationships with high-quality affiliates. You might find yourself overwhelmed with queries and support issues from a large number of participants, rather than concentrating on those who truly drive results.

To ensure a better return on investment, it's advisable to manually review and approve new affiliates, verifying that their audience aligns with your target market.

Easy Affiliate streamlines this process with its built-in application and approval system. Here's how to set it up:

Navigate to Easy Affiliate > Settings > Affiliates tab, and select Application as the Registration Type.

From here, you can also choose to automatically send emails to notify applicants that their application has been received and approved.

Once you've selected the application registration type, Easy Affiliate automatically creates a registration page. Your prospective affiliates will then be required to complete an application form and await your approval before they can start promoting your products.

The form requests essential information, including:

• First name
• Last name
• Email
• Websites they plan to use for promotion
• Their promotional strategy
• Social media profiles/links

This detailed information allows you to evaluate each applicant's potential fit with your business. By requiring applicants to specify their promotional websites you also enables Easy Affiliate to monitor and prevent fraudulent activities by flagging unauthorized site promotions – more on that later.

Boost Conversions with Compelling Campaigns

To really reap the most benefits of your affiliate program, get your affiliates involved in each of your marketing campaigns

Say you've got a new feature or product or a sale to promote: this presents a perfect opportunity for your affiliates to shout out about your brand.

Affiliates are continuously on the lookout for fresh content ideas and reasons to engage their audience. Involve them in your latest promotions and feature launches, creating a symbiotic boost in engagement.

As affiliate program host, you can amplify their impact and incentivize your affiliates further by equipping them with tools to make each campaign a roaring success.

Easy Affiliate makes it straightforward for you to create unique links for specific landing pages.

Say you have a landing page with all the info on your newly released feature. By distributing a link specifically for that landing page, you can guide your affiliates' audience straight to the heart of the action, bypassing the homepage for a more strategic dive into your sales funnel.

Easy Affiliate also makes it easy to distribute campaign images and banners.

Arm your affiliates with eye-catching, branded content that's not just easy to use but also boosts your campaign's visibility. It's a win-win: effortless content for them and enhanced exposure for you. Transform your affiliate program into a dynamic force that propels your brand forward, one campaign at a time.

Track Affiliate Performance in Google Analytics

Not only does Easy Affiliate features it's own real-time reports, tracking clicks and sales, but unlike other affiliate program plugins, it also makes it super easy to track other major KPIs in Google Analytics.

That's thanks to its UTM Affiliate Link Tracking feature.

By simply enabling this feature, Easy Affiliate will automatically add UTM parameters to affiliate links so you can get in-depth insights into things like…

• Top performing affiliates
• Highest converting campaigns
• Which websites your affiliates publish on
• Which type of content performs best

…right in Google Analytics.

This sets the stage for you to optimize your affiliate program and strategy for maximum returns.

Motivate Marketers to Sell More with Special Commission Rates

Incentivize affiliates to pull out all the stops for you affiliate program by rewarding top performers with special commission rates.

With the plugin's Custom Rules add-on, you can set up custom affiliate commission rates to reward high achievers and specific behaviors. For example, you can set up a higher commission rate for affiliates who sell above a certain amount, or offer a special rate on your latest product to boost your new launch. It's all possible and easy with Custom Rules.

Protect Profits with Fraud Prevention

With Easy Affiliate's Fraud Prevention add-on, it's easier than ever to flag or even block commissions that are suspected of fraud before you pay out a cent.

Set whether you want to allow, flag or automatically block commissions from:

• Own referrals – if an affiliate makes a purchase using their own affiliate link.
• Unapproved referring sites – the site that referred the click is not one of the sites listed on the affiliate's application.
• Affiliates with a suspicious conversion rate – Address anomalous conversion rates that significantly deviate from the norm, suggesting possible fraudulent tactics.

This proactive approach safeguards your earnings and upholds the integrity of your affiliate program, making it a stronghold of trust and reliability.

Reward Affiliates Quickly and Simply with One-Click Payouts

With Easy Affiliate's One-Click Payouts, sending rewards is as straightforward as it sounds, making the affiliate payout process quick and effortless.

✅ Instant rewards – A single click is all it takes to transfer earnings to your affiliates, eliminating delays and complexity.

✅ Boost affiliate morale – Fast payouts keep affiliates happy, motivated, and more engaged with your brand.

✅ Streamline operations: Forget about the hassle of manual payments. One-Click Payouts simplify your workflow, freeing up time to focus on strategy and growth.

When your affiliate reaches the payout threshold (which you can easily adjust in your settings), you're just a click away from sending their earnings. Easy Affiliate integrates with PayPal 1-Click Payouts, offering a straightforward and secure way to pay your affiliates.

How To Integrate WishList Member with Easy Affiliate

WishList Member now integrates natively with Easy Affiliate – meaning they're practically made for each other, and connecting them in a cinch.

Easy Affiliate currently supports the following WishList Member payment provider integrations

• PayPal Checkout,
• PayPal Legacy,
• Stripe,
• Authorize.net Simple Checkout.

Here's how to set Easy Affiliate set up and integrated with WishList Member:

(For the purposes of this article, we're going to assume you already have WishList Member installed and activated on your WordPress dashboard.)

• Purchase an Easy Affiliate license.
• Head to your Easy Affiliate Account Downloads page and download the plugin .zip file onto your computer.
• Login to your WordPress Dashboard.
• Go to Plugins > Add New Plugin > Upload Plugin
• Click Browse, select the .zip file and click Install Now

• Once download is complete, hit Activate.
• Now from your WordPress Dashboard head to WishList Member > Setup > Integrations > Other Services and click on the Easy Affiliate icon.

• You should see Easy Affiliate in the side panel of your dashboard. Click on it and then Settings
• Head over to the eCommerce tab
• WishList Member should be automatically detected – switch the toggle to on.
• Click on Update Options

And you're done! It's as straightforward as that.

For more information on the integration including how to cross-reference commissions between the two plugins, check out our knowledge document.

Your next step is to spread the word about your affiliate program and start accepting applicants.

In no time, you'll be watching your sales roll in and your membership site flourish.

Conclusion

With WishList Member and Easy Affiliate, you have all you need to create a powerful affiliate program for your membership site.

Easy Affiliate offers all you need to create and manage a seamless, streamlined affiliate program that will magnify your reach and bring in more engaged members to your community.

Remember to keep your affiliates motivated with clear communication, timely payouts, and by sharing best practices for promotion. Use the data insights from Easy Affiliate and Google Analytics to refine your strategy and focus your energies on turning your affiliates into true brand ambassadors.

Their success is your success, and together, you can achieve remarkable growth for your membership site.

It all starts with this one integration!

Got any questions or want to share your experience of affiliate marketing? Let us know in the comments below.

And don't forget to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn for more tips and best practices to grow your membership business.

Whether your resolution is to turn your hobby into a money maker, or rev up your brick and mortar business with a recurring revenue program, there's something in this list for you.

We'll also walk you through your first steps to making your chosen subscription business idea a reality.

Whether you're reading this in January, or some time in the future (assuming the cyborgs haven't won) this is the first day of the rest of your life, so make it count and unlock the potential of recurring revenue today.

Let's roll!

Subscription Business Ideas to Monetize Your Hobby

It's the ultimate dream – making money off of what you love best – and it's easier to do than ever with a subscription website and some marketing know-how.

No matter how niche your hobby, there are people out there that share your interests. Not only are they your ideal customers, they also provide an incredible opportunity to build a thriving, loyal online community.

If you're not sure how to turn your passion into a profit-making machine, here are a few subscription business ideas to spark some inspiration.

Curated Genre-Specific or Themed Book Club

You know the feeling – you've just finished an incredible read, and you a) desperately want to share your enthusiasm with someone and b) are immediately on the hunt for the next book to take its place.

Fantasy sci-fi, crime thriller, historical fiction, whatever floats your literary boat, there's a community of like-minded folk out there looking for a home for their hobby. And you could be the one to build it!

Subscribers to your book club can get the following:

• Curated Monthly Book Selections: Handpicked books each month focusing on a specific genre or theme, like fantasy sci-fi, crime thriller, or historical fiction.
  
  
• Reader-Driven Community Forum: An online space for subscribers to discuss the book of the month, share insights, and connect with fellow book lovers.
  
  
• Personalized Book Recommendations: Based on subscribers' reading preferences and feedback, provide tailored suggestions for their next read.

• Thematic Extras: Include additional content related to the book's theme, such as related articles, mini-guides, or trivia related to the book's setting or genre.
  
  
• DIY Discussion Questions: Create and share a list of thought-provoking questions about each book to enhance readers' understanding and discussion.
  
  
• Monthly Book Reviews and Summaries: Write and distribute reviews or summaries of the selected books to enrich the reading experience.
  
  
• Virtual Book Club Meetings: Organize regular online meet-ups where members can discuss the current book and share their opinions.
  
  
• Reading Challenges and Contests: Engage members with reading challenges, quizzes, or contests related to the book or its genre.
  
  
• Collaborative Book Lists: Compile book lists based on member suggestions, votes, or seasonal themes, encouraging a sense of community involvement.
  
  
• Book-Themed Digital Content: Create and share book-related content like blog posts, infographics, or thematic playlists to complement the reading experience.
  
  
• Monthly Newsletters: A newsletter featuring literary news, hobbyist tips for readers, and sneak peeks into next month's book selection.
  
  
• Exclusive Member Discounts: Partner with local or online bookstores to offer members discounts on books and reading accessories.

Subscription Business Examples

• Tailored Book Recommendations (TBR): TBR offers personalized book recommendations. Subscribers fill out a survey about their reading preferences and receive a tailored book list from a bibliologist. They have the option to receive the books in the mail or get recommendations only.
  
  
• ReadHer Book Box: This subscription service focuses on romance books written by women of color. It aims to amplify diverse voices and stories, providing subscribers with thoughtfully chosen books each month along with themed extras.
  
  
• Read It & Eat It: Ideal for culinary enthusiasts and foodies, this subscription combines the love for food and reading. Each box includes a food-related book along with a delicious snack from a small business, catering to various food-themed literary genres.
  
  
• Once Upon A Book Club: Designed to provide an immersive reading experience, this service sends a new book each month, accompanied by small gifts and surprises that relate to specific parts of the story. This unique approach encourages readers to engage more deeply with the narrative.

DIY Crafts Subscription Service

Imagine turning your living room into a mini craft studio once a month, brimming with creativity and the joy of making something with your own hands. Whether you're into scrapbooking, knitting, or upcycling, the world of DIY crafts is vast and endlessly inspiring.

As the curator of a DIY Crafts subscription service, you can bring this creative joy directly to people's homes. Here's what subscribers can look forward to:

• Monthly Craft Kits: Each month, members receive a kit containing all the materials and instructions needed to complete a unique craft project. These could range from home decor items, jewelry making, to seasonal decorations.
  
  
• Skill-Level Tailored Projects: Offer different subscription tiers for various skill levels, from beginners to more experienced crafters, ensuring everyone has a project that suits their abilities.
  
  
• Online Courses and Workshops: Complement the kits with access to exclusive video courses with tutorials or live online workshops via zoom, guiding members step-by-step through the projects.
  
  
• Community Craft Challenges: Host monthly challenges that encourage members to try new techniques and share their creations with the community for inspiration and feedback.
  
  
• Crafting Tool Add-Ons: Give members the option to add essential or specialized tools to their subscription box, perfect for building their crafting toolkit over time.
  
  
• Exclusive Craft Patterns and Designs: Provide original pattern downloads, templates, or design ideas exclusively for subscribers, keeping the content fresh and unique.

• Member Showcase and Feedback: Create a platform for members to showcase their completed projects and share tips and ideas, fostering a vibrant crafting community.
  
  
• Seasonal and Thematic Projects: Align some of the monthly projects with seasons, holidays, or current trends, making the crafts timely and exciting.
  
  
• Specialty Craft Materials: Occasionalldownloay include specialty materials that members might not find easily, such as unique beads, specialty yarns, or eco-friendly fabrics.
  
  
• Crafting Resource Newsletter: Send out a monthly newsletter with crafting tips, spotlight on various crafting techniques, and previews of upcoming project themes.
  
  
• Discounts on Craft Supplies: Negotiate deals with craft supply stores to offer subscribers exclusive discounts on additional materials and tools.
  
  
• Q&A and Support: Offer direct support for any crafting questions or challenges, ensuring members have a helping hand when needed.

This DIY Crafts subscription service is an ideal way to share your passion for crafting and to help others discover the joy and satisfaction of creating something beautiful by hand.

Subscription Business Examples

Adults & Crafts Crate: This subscription service offers a monthly craft project for adults and teenagers. It includes all the necessary tools, materials, and instructions for projects such as wood-burning, candle making, clock making, and more, making it perfect for crafty nights in, family activities, or social gatherings.

The Hopebroidery Box: Offers a selection of embroidery boxes, including full skeins of embroidery floss, scissors, fabric, a method to transfer designs, a needle and needle threader, and access to a full-length video tutorial​​.

Mystery Puzzle Subscription Service

Have you ever emerged from an escape room, heart racing with the thrill of the challenge, and thought, ‘I could create something like this'?

Imagine channeling your love for puzzles, riddles, and captivating storylines into crafting your very own mystery puzzle adventure.

As a creator of a Mystery Puzzle Games subscription, you have the power to design a world of intrigue and challenge that arrives at someone's doorstep each month.

This is your chance to turn your passion for crafting intricate puzzles and weaving engaging narratives into an exciting venture that brings joy and challenge to fellow enthusiasts. Let your creativity and love for mystery guide you in creating an unforgettable experience for others.

Here's what subscribers can expect from your Mystery Puzzle Games service:

• Bi-Monthly Mystery Boxes: Subscribers receive a box every other month containing a stand-alone mystery. These stories could range from detective mysteries, escape room challenges, to historical adventures.
  
  
• Monthly Mystery Challenges: Host a monthly online puzzle challenge with a small mystery to solve. Engage your community in solving it together.
  
  
• Puzzle Variety: Puzzles include a mix of types – from logic puzzles and ciphers to physical puzzles that require assembly. This variety caters to different puzzle-solving strengths and keeps the experience fresh.

• Interactive Online Elements: Some mysteries may include online components, such as websites to explore, virtual clues to uncover, or interactive videos that enhance the storytelling. Use online platforms to create interactive stories where users make choices to solve the mystery. You can use a tool like Twine to craft narrative games without a ton of technical knowledge.
  
  
• Collectible Items: Include items that not only serve as clues but can also be collected over time, like unique tokens, thematic keepsakes, or character cards.
  
  
• Difficulty Levels: Offer varying levels of difficulty, catering to both novice sleuths and seasoned puzzle veterans.
  
  
• Family-Friendly Options: Provide some mysteries that are suitable for families or younger audiences, ensuring a broad appeal.
  
  
• Community Engagement: Create an online forum or community board where subscribers can discuss theories, ask for hints, and connect with fellow mystery lovers.
  
  
• Creator Q&A Sessions: Host live Q&A sessions or interviews with the creators, offering insights into the world of puzzle and game design.
  
  
• Special Edition Mysteries: Occasionally offer special edition boxes that tie into seasonal events, popular culture, or historical anniversaries.
  
  
• Hints and Solution Guides: Provide hints or a full solution guide for each mystery, ensuring all players can complete the story.

Your Mystery Puzzle Games subscription service will not only offer a unique form of entertainment but also a challenging and intellectually stimulating experience that keeps subscribers eagerly awaiting their next mystery.

Subscription Business Examples

• Finders Seekers Mysteries: This self-contained mystery subscription box includes a series of clues and puzzles that allow subscribers to explore new cities and cultures from their own home while solving cryptic messages and deciphering codes​​.
  
  
• Deadbolt Mystery Society: This service offers a stand-alone mystery case in each box, allowing subscribers to crack different cases with each delivery. It's designed for those who love suspense and detective stories but prefer not to commit to a long-term narrative​​​​.
  
  
• Escape The Crate: This bi-monthly subscription service brings the experience of an escape room to your home. Each box contains a game that combines the thrill of an escape room with the convenience of a home-based activity​​.

Nature Journaling Subscription Service

If you have a passion for the great outdoors and a flair for documenting the natural world, consider creating a Nature Journaling subscription service. This could be a wonderful avenue to share your love for nature, encouraging others to observe, appreciate, and record the beauty of the environment around them.

Here’s what subscribers can look forward to in your Nature Journaling service:

• Monthly Nature Journaling Kits: Each month, send out a kit that includes tools and materials for nature journaling, such as a specially designed journal, watercolor or sketching supplies, and durable, portable writing tools.
  
  
• Guided Journal Prompts: Provide prompts that guide subscribers on what to look for and document in their nature explorations, such as seasonal changes, local flora and fauna, or weather patterns.
  
  
• Educational Content on Local Ecosystems: Include educational materials about different ecosystems, plants, wildlife, and environmental conservation efforts. This could be in the form of pamphlets, e-books, or online resources.
  
  
• Online Courses: Host online courses on various aspects of nature journaling, such as botanical sketching, landscape drawing, or creative writing techniques.
  
  
• Guest Expert Contributions: Collaborate with naturalists, botanists, or environmental educators to provide expert insights and content for your subscribers.
  
  
• Community Challenges: Organize monthly journaling challenges or themes, encouraging subscribers to explore specific aspects of nature and share their journal entries with the community.

• Subscriber Showcase: Feature subscriber journal pages in a dedicated section of your newsletter or website, celebrating their observations and artistic expressions.
  
  
• Virtual Nature Walks and Explorations: Conduct virtual nature walks or explorations, guiding subscribers through different natural settings and pointing out interesting sights to journal.
  
  
• Seasonal Nature Spotting Guides: Provide guides or checklists for seasonal nature spotting, helping subscribers to identify and learn more about what they might encounter in different seasons.
  
  
• Nature Photography Tips: Include tips for nature photography, helping subscribers to capture and include photos in their journals.
  
  
• Discounts on Outdoor Gear: Partner with outdoor gear companies to offer discounts on items that might be useful for nature journaling expeditions, like binoculars, portable seats, or water bottles.
  
  
• Interactive Online Community: Create an online forum or social media group where subscribers can share their journal pages, experiences, and tips with each other.
  
  
• Special Editions for Unique Ecosystems: Occasionally, offer special edition kits focused on unique ecosystems or extraordinary natural events, like a desert bloom or a great bird migration.

Your Nature Journaling subscription service will not only foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world but also create a community of like-minded individuals who find joy and peace in the act of observing and recording nature's wonders.

Plant Subscription Service

For those with a green thumb or a budding interest in botany, launching a plant subscription service can be a rewarding way to share your love for flora. This service is perfect for anyone looking to bring a bit of nature into their home, office, or garden, and for those keen to learn more about plant care and horticulture.

Here's what subscribers can look forward to in your plant subscription service:

• Monthly Plant Deliveries: Each month, subscribers receive a new, carefully selected plant. This could include a range of indoor plants, succulents, herbs, or seasonal flowers, suited to different climates and space sizes.
  
  
• Detailed Care Instructions: Provide easy-to-understand care guides with each plant, covering watering, light requirements, temperature preferences, and other care tips to ensure plant health and longevity.
  
  
• Potting and Repotting Supplies: Include essential supplies like high-quality potting mix, decorative pots, or repotting tools in the subscription box, catering to both beginner and experienced plant owners.
  
  
• Online Workshops and Webinars: Host virtual sessions on topics like indoor gardening, sustainable practices, pest control, and plant styling to educate and engage your subscribers.
  
  
• Expert Horticulturist Q&A: Offer access to a plant expert for personalized advice and answers to subscribers’ specific plant care questions.
  
  
• Plant Community Forum: Create a platform for subscribers to share their plant journeys, exchange tips, and showcase their green havens, fostering a community of plant enthusiasts.

• Seasonal Plant Selections: Align your plant offerings with the seasons, providing plants that thrive during specific times of the year and offering advice on seasonal plant care.
  
  
• Exclusive Access to Rare Plants: Occasionally offer rare or exotic plants for those subscribers interested in unique and hard-to-find species.
  
  
• Gardening Tool Add-Ons: Give subscribers the option to add specialized gardening tools to their subscription for an enhanced gardening experience.
  
  
• Discounts on Gardening Products: Partner with gardening supply stores or online platforms to offer discounts on additional plants, tools, or decor.
  
  
• Themed Plant Boxes: Create themed boxes around specific types of plants, such as air-purifying plants, easy-care plants for beginners, or flowering plants.
  
  
• Interactive Plant Care App: Develop or partner with a plant care app to provide subscribers with a digital tool for tracking watering schedules, growth progress, and other care activities.
  
  
• Special Editions for Plant Holidays: Celebrate plant-related holidays with special edition boxes, like National Houseplant Appreciation Day or Arbor Day, featuring unique plants or planting activities.

Your plant subscription service will not only bring the joy and beauty of plants to people's spaces but also educate and inspire a deeper appreciation and understanding of the botanical world.

Subscription Business Examples

• The Plant Club: A popular option well-suited for beginners, offering a monthly box that includes one plant along with a decorative planter and a customized potting mixture. The box often includes fun extras like stickers, candy, magnets, or pins​​.
  
  
• Succulents Box: A great choice for novice or forgetful indoor gardeners, offering a range of options starting at a low price. Plans include up to four plants each month, focusing on succulents and air plants​​.
  
  
• The Sill: Provides a pet-friendly subscription box, which includes either one 4-inch or 6-inch nontoxic plant with each delivery, making it safe for households with pets​​.

Subscription Ideas For Your Brick & Mortar Business

Businesses are discovering innovative ways to expand their reach and enhance customer engagement through subscription services. Whether you own a cozy café, a boutique clothing store, or a neighborhood gym, incorporating a subscription model can unlock new revenue streams and deepen connections with your customers.

This approach is all about offering unique experiences and value that extend beyond the physical storefront. Let's explore how different brick and mortar businesses can tap into the potential of subscription services, adding a new dimension to their traditional business models.

Restaurants, Cafes and Bars

If you run a restaurant, bar, or cafe, you understand the value of customer loyalty. Launching a subscription service can be a fantastic strategy to encourage regular patronage and create a steady stream of revenue.

There are numerous creative approaches to implement this model, each catering to different customer preferences and dining experiences. Here's a glimpse of what a subscription to your culinary establishment could include, transforming casual visitors into loyal, recurring patrons.

• Frequent Diner Subscriptions: Create a subscription where customers pay a regular fee for access to ongoing discounts and special deals. This incentivizes more frequent visits and maximizes savings for loyal diners.
  
  
• Beverage Subscription Clubs: Focus on beverages like specialty coffees or curated wines. Subscribers can enjoy exclusive varieties or receive discounts on their favorite drinks, making your cafe or restaurant their preferred choice.
  
  
• VIP Experience Subscriptions: Offer a premium subscription that includes access to exclusive events, priority service, and other luxury experiences, catering to those who seek a more upscale dining experience.
  
  
• Community-Supported Restaurant (CSR) Subscriptions: Introduce a model where customers pay an upfront fee in exchange for a credit towards future meals and services. This can provide immediate funds for your business while offering great value to your customers.
  
  
• Culinary Content Hub Subscriptions: For establishments with a unique culinary identity, offer a subscription that provides access to exclusive digital content such as cooking tutorials, recipe shares, and behind-the-scenes insights into your restaurant's culinary processes.

Subscription Business Examples

• Waverly Stone Gastropub Subscription: Their “Stone Club” subscription service includes attractive perks such as exclusive discounts on food and beverages, larger draft servings, and early access to special events and promotions.
  
  
• Cooper’s Hawk Wine Subscription: This monthly subscription showcases a select “wine of the month” from the restaurant, complete with detailed tasting notes and suggested pairing recipes, enhancing the wine enthusiast's experience.
  
  
• Boris and Horton Coffee Subscription: Catering to the community and pet lovers, this dog-friendly cafe offers a monthly coffee subscription, providing regular beverage delights to its patrons.

Hair and Beauty Businesses

In the world of personal care, where customer loyalty and consistent quality are key, introducing a subscription model in your hairdressing, barber, or beautician business can be a game-changer. It's not just about frequent services; it's about creating an exclusive, tailored experience for your clients, making their self-care routine something to look forward to every month.

• Regular Appointment Subscriptions: Offer a subscription for regular haircuts, styling, or beauty treatments. Clients can pay monthly and book their sessions in advance, ensuring they always look their best.
  
  
• Exclusive Product Boxes: Curate a selection of hair care or beauty products tailored to each client’s needs and preferences, delivered monthly.
  
  
• VIP Beauty Experiences: Create a premium subscription offering exclusive services like personalized consultations, advanced treatments, or luxury products.
  
  
• Tutorial and Tips Access: Provide subscribers with exclusive access to online tutorials, tips, and guides on hair and beauty care, keeping them engaged and informed.

Subscription Business Examples

1. B.O.B Salons All Inclusive Membership: Membership to this generous subscription service gives B.O.B salon's clients access to unlimited cuts and colors, conditioning treatments and blow dries for just $177 (£139) per month.
   
   
2. Sleeping Beauty Salon Membership: Staying on the other side of the pond, Scotland's Sleeping Beauty Salon franchise offers 6 and 12 month Platinum memberships. Members enjoy special VIP treatment in salon, discounts on all treatments and products, members only gifts, access to an exclusive online community and waiting list priority.
   
   
3. Keep It Cut Unlimited Hair Cuts: Men's salon Keep It Cut offers a range of memberships. Clients can opt for just unlimited haircuts for $38/month, or add unlimited washed and grooming for $64/month.

Gyms & Fitness Centers

Gyms and fitness center already function on a memberhship model – clients pay regularly for access to your equipment, classes and personal training programs. But if the fitness influencer movement has taught us anything it's that your business has borders far beyond your local community.

With an online subscription program, you can tap into the market of people who prefer working out at home or cannot regularly visit your gym. Here are several ways your gym or fitness center can leverage this growing trend:

• Virtual Class Subscriptions: Offer a range of online classes that members can join from anywhere. This could include live-streamed sessions or pre-recorded classes in yoga, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), Pilates, and more.
  
  
• Digital Personal Training: Create personalized training programs that can be delivered virtually. Create a personalized VIP experience with one-on-one video sessions via Zoom, customized workout plans, and regular check-ins, or generate passive income by creating pre-made courses for different fitness goals.
  
  
• Health and Wellness Webinars: Host online seminars and webinars focusing on topics like nutrition, mental wellness, fitness trends, and holistic health practices.
  
  
• On-Demand Workout Libraries: Build a library of on-demand workout videos that subscribers can access anytime, catering to all fitness levels and preferences.
  
  
• Nutritional Planning and Coaching: Include diet and nutritional guidance as part of your subscription, offering meal plans, recipes, and consultations.
  
  
• Community Support Groups: Foster a sense of community with online support groups where members can share experiences, tips, and encouragement.

Subscription Business Examples

1. Base Body Babes: Specializes in female strength training with online sessions. Their subscription includes home and gym training courses, tutorials, and a recipe library.
   
   
2. Gymtime PT: Offers customized online fitness programs. Subscribers choose from plans like “Ultimate Weight Loss” or “Tone Up Extreme” and receive tailored workout and nutrition plans.
   
   
3. Pilatesology: Provides online Pilates workouts taught by nearly 70 professionals. They offer digital downloads of Pilates programs and host a community for students to share their experiences.

Pet Stores & Services

Pet stores and pet service providers can greatly benefit from the subscription model, connecting pet owners with products and services that cater to their pets' needs while ensuring steady business growth. An online subscription program can extend your reach to pet owners seeking convenience, variety, and consistent quality for their furry friends.

Here are ways a pet store or service can utilize a subscription model:

• Pet Care Boxes: Curate monthly boxes filled with toys, treats, grooming tools, and health products tailored to different types of pets.
  
• Routine Grooming Subscriptions: Offer a subscription for regular grooming sessions, ensuring pets are always well-cared for.
  
• Pet Health and Wellness Webinars: Conduct online seminars on pet care, health tips, and behavioral training.
  
• Specialized Pet Diet Plans: Provide tailored monthly meal plans and nutritional products, catering to pets' specific dietary needs.
  
• Pet Activity and Training Subscriptions: Offer online training sessions and activity guides to keep pets engaged and well-behaved.

Subscription Business Examples

Just4Dogs: Just4Dogs Pet Salon and Spa offers grooming and bath memberships starting from $27.99/month ensuring their clients' pooches stay pampered no matter what adventures they go on!

Pet Evolution: Pet store franchise offers unlimited self-serve dog washes, a free treat or dog toy and 10% off retail and grooming as part of their VIP membership program.

Petco: Petco offers a variety of subscription services, including auto-deliveries of pet food, a monthly PupBox with treats and toys, insurance, and a Vital Care membership for checkups, vaccinations, grooming, and discounts. Their focus on fresh pet food and healthcare services demonstrates the potential of subscriptions in providing comprehensive pet care.

Subscription Business Ideas for Online Services

Online subscription services are flourishing. They're revolutionizing how we access information, entertainment, and services. As a business owner, tapping into this wave opens up a realm of possibilities. Connect with customers globally, and offer them valuable, on-demand services that cater to their unique needs and interests, all from the comfort of…well…wherever they are!

Let's look at some subscription-based business ideas and examples that are thriving. From educational platforms and streaming services to exclusive online communities and digital tools, the potential to create a lucrative and impactful online subscription service is vast.

Online Courses

Whatever field you specialize in, monetize your expertise by building an online course. With WishList Member, you can build a course easily with CourseCure and engage and retain your audience with interactive gamification features.

This setup is ideal for experts in any domain seeking to share their knowledge and build a community of eager learners. Your course can range from professional development to personal hobbies, offering value through a mix of video lessons, quizzes, and interactive content.

• Interactive Video Lessons: Design comprehensive video modules on your subject matter, ensuring each lesson is both informative and engaging.
  
  
• Quizzes and Assessments: Incorporate quizzes to reinforce learning and provide feedback, making the learning process interactive and effective.
  
  
• Gamification Elements: Use points, badges, and leaderboards to motivate learners, making education fun and competitive.
  
  
• Community Forums: Establish a forum or discussion board for learners to engage, discuss, and share insights, enhancing the learning experience.
  
  
• Downloadable Resources: Offer supplementary materials like PDFs, slides, and worksheets for additional study and reference.

Subscription Business Examples

• ChineseFor.Us: This online course provides comprehensive Mandarin lessons, ranging from beginner to advanced levels. Subscribers get access to interactive video lessons, quizzes, and a community forum for enhanced learning and cultural exchange.
  
  
• Bread Ahead Bakery School: Offers an online artisan bread baking course, complete with video tutorials, quizzes, and a community forum. Subscribers learn various baking techniques and have access to downloadable recipes and guides.
  
  
• Marie Burke Art: Features an online art course with video tutorials on different painting techniques. The subscription includes access to a community forum for artist interaction, quizzes, and downloadable art resources.

Web Design, Development and Maintenance

Tap into the demand for digital services by offering web design, development, and maintenance on a subscription basis.

This model is highly sought after by small to medium-sized businesses looking to outsource these tasks without the commitment of hiring a full-time professional.

You can provide a range of services like website updates, bug fixes, design improvements, and ongoing technical support. Tailor your packages to cater to different business needs, ensuring a steady income stream while helping businesses thrive online.

• Monthly Website Health Checks: Regularly review and maintain website performance, including speed optimization and SEO audits.
  
  
• Design Updates and Refreshes: Offer periodic redesigns or aesthetic improvements to keep websites looking modern and engaging.
  
  
• Technical Support and Troubleshooting: Provide prompt support for any technical issues or glitches that may arise, ensuring minimal downtime.
  
  
• Content Management: Assist with updating and managing website content, including blog posts, product descriptions, and multimedia elements.
  
  
• Security Monitoring and Updates: Keep websites secure with regular security checks, updates, and backups to protect against data breaches.
  
  
• Custom Development Work: Include options for custom coding or feature additions tailored to specific business needs.
  
  
• Analytics and Reporting: Offer monthly analytics reports to help businesses understand their website performance and user engagement.

Online Publications

Harness the power of your niche knowledge or passion by starting an online publication. Whether it's a blog, magazine, or news site, you can offer subscriptions for exclusive content.

This might include in-depth articles, video content, podcasts, or early access to new material. Utilize platforms like WordPress with WishLis Member to manage subscriptions and content distribution.

Tailor your publication to a specific interest group, providing valuable insights, updates, and perspectives that are hard to find elsewhere.

• Exclusive Articles and Features: Provide subscribers with articles that offer deep dives into niche topics, not available to non-subscribers.
• Early Access to Content: Allow subscribers early or exclusive access to new articles, videos, or podcast episodes.
• Behind-the-Scenes Content: Share insights into your content creation process or additional background information that enhances the main content.
• Subscriber-Only Podcasts or Webinars: Create podcasts or webinars that cater to the specific interests of your audience, available only to subscribers.
• Interactive Q&A Sessions: Host regular sessions where subscribers can interact with you or guest experts, deepening their understanding of the subject matter.
• Downloadable Resources: Offer supplementary materials like eBooks, whitepapers, or exclusive research findings.
• Community Forums: Foster a subscriber community through forums or discussion boards, encouraging interaction and discussion amongst your audience.
• Regular Newsletters: Send out a curated newsletter with additional insights, summaries of recent content, or previews of upcoming material.

Life / Business Coaching

If you have expertise in personal development, career guidance, or business strategy, consider offering online coaching services.

Through one-on-one video sessions, personalized plans, and regular follow-ups, you can make a significant impact on someone's personal or professional growth. You can also

Offer different tiers of subscriptions based on the frequency of sessions and level of personalized support.

• Resource Library Access: Provide subscribers with exclusive access to a library of resources like worksheets, guides, and motivational content.
  
  
• Tailored Coaching Sessions: Offer individualized sessions that focus on specific personal or professional development goals.
  
  
• Customized Action Plans: Develop action plans tailored to each client’s needs, helping them navigate challenges and achieve their objectives.
  
  
• Email Support: Offer ongoing email support, allowing clients to seek guidance or feedback between scheduled sessions.
  
  
• Webinars and Workshops: Host exclusive webinars or workshops on relevant topics that add value to the coaching experience.
  
  
• Flexible Subscription Levels: Create different subscription tiers, offering varying levels of interaction, resources, and support to suit diverse needs and budgets.

Online Resource Libraries

Online resource libraries are a treasure trove of knowledge and tools. If you have a wealth of content in a specific niche, consider compiling it into a subscription-based online library. This can include articles, guides, video tutorials, templates, and more. It's an excellent way for experts in any field to provide immense value to their audience, offering a centralized hub of information that's regularly updated and expanded.

• Curated Content Collections: Organize your content into themed collections or categories, making it easy for subscribers to find what they need.
  
  
• Regular Updates and Additions: Continuously add new resources to keep the library fresh and relevant, encouraging ongoing subscriptions.
  
  
• Downloadable Tools and Templates: Include practical tools, templates, or worksheets that subscribers can use in their personal or professional projects.
  
  
• Video Tutorials and Webinars: Complement written content with video resources, offering in-depth explanations or live interactive sessions.
  
  
• Member-Exclusive Articles and Insights: Provide articles or insights that are exclusive to subscribers, adding unique value to the membership.
  
  
• Interactive Features: Incorporate features like quizzes, calculators, or interactive guides to enhance the learning experience.
  
  
• Community Access: Offer a forum or discussion area where subscribers can discuss content, share ideas, and ask questions.
  

Subscription Business Examples

Mrs. D's Corner: Mrs. D's Corner offers an extensive online library dedicated to special education resources. This subscription-based platform provides teachers and parents with a wealth of materials, including customizable lesson plans, interactive activities, and educational games specifically designed for special needs education.

Worship Drum Samples: Worship Drum Samples presents a comprehensive online library for drum enthusiasts and worship musicians. This subscription service offers an extensive range of high-quality drum samples, loops, and sound kits tailored for worship music. Subscribers can elevate their music production with access to exclusive drum sounds, mixing tips, and tutorials, all curated to enhance the worship music experience.

Teach Beside Me: Teach Beside Me introduces an innovative online resource library catering to homeschooling families. This subscription-based platform is a treasure trove of creative educational materials, including hands-on activities, STEM project guides, and unique learning games. Subscribers receive access to a wide array of downloadable resources that make learning fun and engaging, along with practical homeschooling tips and a supportive community of like-minded parents and educators.

Bring Your Subscription Business Idea to Life with WishList Member

So there you go! There are limitless possibilities when it comes to starting your own subscription business. We hope this list has sparked a vision for your future.

Whether you're starting a subscription business from scratch, or adding subscriptions to your existing WordPress website, WishList Member is an incredibly versatile tool to help you achieve your vision.

Here are some of WishList Member's key features that make it ideal for starting your online subscription service:

1. Easy Integration with WordPress: WishList Member seamlessly integrates with your WordPress site, turning it into a fully-functional subscription platform. Whether you’re starting from the ground up, or adding to an existing site, the setup is straightforward.

2. Flexible Membership Levels: You can create unlimited membership levels to cater to different customer needs. This flexibility allows you to offer tiered access to content, services, or products, tailoring your offerings to diverse audience segments.

3. Controlled Content Access: Manage what your subscribers see based on their membership level. Whether it’s premium content, exclusive services, or special products, WishList Member gives you the power to restrict access to certain areas of your site, creating exclusivity and value for your subscribers.

4. Subscriptions and Payments: WishList Member supports recurring subscriptions. Integrate with popular payment gateways like PayPal, Stripe, and more to handle payments efficiently and securely. Automated billing takes the hassle out of the process, both for you and your subscribers.

5. Drip Content Delivery: This feature allows you to release content to members at regular intervals, keeping them engaged and subscribed for longer. It’s perfect for online courses, serialized content, or any subscription model where content is delivered over time.

6. Member Management: Track and manage your members with ease. WishList Member provides insights into member activity, subscription levels, and payment history, making it easier to optimize your offerings and grow your community.

7. Build Courses with Ease with CourseCure by WishList Member: Harness the power of CourseCure to effortlessly create and manage your online courses. This tool simplifies the process of building engaging, interactive courses. Whether you're offering educational content, professional training, or hobby-related courses, CourseCure is the easiest way to make it happen.

Design comprehensive modules, organize lessons, and include multimedia elements to enhance the learning experience. CourseCure's intuitive interface ensures that you can focus on delivering quality content without worrying about technical complexities. Plus add gamification features to keep your members engaged and coming back for more.

In Conclusion: Unlocking the Potential of Recurring Revenue

There you have it – subscription business ideas galore. From transforming hobbies into lucrative ventures, to adding a subscription dimension to brick-and-mortar establishments, the opportunities are as varied as they are exciting!

Embracing the subscription model is about generating steady income, building relationships, creating value, and offering experiences that keep your customers coming back for more. The fusion of your unique ideas with the capabilities of platforms like WishList Member sets the stage for a thriving, engaging, and profitable subscription business.

So, whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, remember that the journey to recurring revenue starts with a step. Equip yourself with the right tools, engage with your audience, and watch as your subscription business flourishes into a rewarding and sustainable venture.

Let's make 2024 the year of tapping into new possibilities and unlocking the full potential of your business. Dream big, start small, and grow steadily – the world of subscription business awaits!

Got a subscription business idea and not sure how to bring it to life? Want to share your idea with us? Let us know in the comments below!

Found this blog useful? Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn for more tips and best practices to make the most of your new subscription business.

Every interaction counts. It's as true on your membership site as it is in your grocery store. 

How you interact with your members (and whether you interact at all) is central to their engagement, loyalty, and the likelihood that they'll invest in more of your products and services. 

Once a member signs up with their email address, you have a direct line of communication, with immense potential to grow that relationship and ensure a higher lifetime customer value. 

With the WishList Member, Campaign Refinery integration, you can realize that potential with personalized, targeted messaging.

Read on to find out how segmented email marketing helped one brand achieve a 300% increase in sales during their Black Friday campaign. 

I'll also provide other scenarios where you can use an email integration with WishList Member for precise and effective member communications. 

By the end of this blog, you'll be able to use email segments to boost sales, upgrades, and engagement among your members. 

From first click to lasting impact, orchestrate a journey of engagement and growth with every member. Let's tune up and get started!

Introducing the WishList Member Campaign Refinery Integration

This integration (available with WishList Member Pro and Elite plans) is all about automating interactions based on member behaviors. Turn their every action into an opportunity for tailored communication.

The Mechanics: Seamless Synchronization

At its core, this integration allows you to apply or remove tags in Campaign Refinery based on a variety of member actions in WishList Member. 

Here is the full list of actions that can trigger an add or remove tag automation in Campaign Refinery:

• Added: When a member joins a membership level or is added to a membership level.

• Removed: When a member is removed from a membership level. Members can be removed from a level via admin, level actions, sequential upgrades, and LMS Integrations Actions (eg. via the LearnDash integration)

• Cancelled: When a member stops or cancels payments to their membership level and no longer have access to protected content.

• Uncancelled: When a member rejoins a membership level after cancelling, or after a successful rebilling payment after having been cancelled.

• Expired: When a member's membership has expired after a trial or one-time payment.

• Unexpired: When a member rejoins a level by renewing membership after expiration.

Each of these actions can trigger specific automations. This isn't just about tracking member movements; it’s about responding to them in the most relevant way possible.

The Benefits: Precision and Personalization

What does this mean for your member communications? Precision. Personalization. Impact.

By segmenting your email audience based on these automated tags, your messages hit closer to home. Far from just broadcasting information, you’re engaging in a conversation, tailored to the member's specific journey and needs.

Let's Get Set Up (It's Easy!)

Activate The Integration

Activating this integration is a piece of pie. From your WordPress dashboard, navigate to WishList Member > Setup > Integrations > Email Providers > Campaign Refinery. 

In the box that appears, click the slider to enable Campaign Refinery.

Paste your Campaign Refinery API Key from your Campaign Refinery account and you’re set! Two powerful tools, now synched up and ready to roll!

For a more in-depth, step-by-step run through, check out our WishList Member, Campaign Refinery knowledge doc.

Leveraging Tags: Automated Engagement

Here’s where it gets exciting. From your Campaign Refinery account, you create tags that categorize members based on their actions within WishList Member. 

Whether they’re joining a new level, canceling their subscription, or coming back after a hiatus, each action can be assigned specific tags. This setup allows for incredibly focused and effective communication strategies.

Let’s imagine you have 3 membership levels set up in WIshList Member: Bronze, Silver and Gold. You then create 3 corresponding tags in Campaign Refinery so that you can send emails to only members tagged “Gold”, for example.

In this scenario, you can create automations to add the Bronze tag in Campaign Refinery when a member joins your Bronze level, add a Silver tag when they join your Silver level, and so on. 

Similarly, you can automatically remove these tags when a member cancels their payments and ends their membership.

In this instance, you can also add a new “Cancelled” tag in Campaign Refinery to target these former members in a re-engagement campaign. 

We’ll look at these scenarios in more depth later. 

The Outcome: Targeted Communication

With these tags in place, the communication possibilities are endless. You can reach out to members who have just canceled with messages tailored to bring them back, or nudge lower-level members with compelling reasons to upgrade. 

It's about creating a conversation that feels personal and directly relevant to each member’s experience.

The Big Picture: Beyond the Click

This integration is more than a technical setup; it's a strategy for cultivating relationships with your members. 

From the first click to the lasting impact, each interaction is an opportunity to deepen engagement, increase loyalty, and ultimately, drive growth for your platform.

Stay tuned as we dive deeper into how you can use these features to not just communicate, but connect with your members in a way that truly matters.

3 Ways to Supercharge Member Communications Using WishList Member and Campaign Refinery

Now that we've set the stage with the WishList Member and Campaign Refinery integration, let's look more specifically at how you can leverage this powerful combo to enhance your member communications. 

1. Encouraging Upgrades for Lower-Level Members

Direct Approach for Upgrades:

Use the tagging system to identify members at lower levels, like “Bronze”. Then, craft and send personalized messages highlighting the perks of higher tiers. 

You can showcase exclusive benefits, testimonials, or sneak peeks into what the “Silver” or “Gold” levels offer. It’s about painting a picture of what they're missing and making the upgrade irresistible.

Result-Driven Communication:
Focus on the results and experiences of upgrading. Share success stories or case studies of members who’ve moved up and seen tangible benefits. This approach turns abstract perks into real outcomes, making the upgrade more appealing.

2. Reengaging Members Who Cancel

Targeted Reengagement Campaigns:

When a member cancels, automatically tag them as “Cancelled” and initiate a tailored reengagement campaign. 

This campaign can address their possible reasons for leaving, offer special incentives for rejoining, or update them on new features or content that might reignite their interest.

Personalized Follow-Ups:

Follow up with personalized communication that shows understanding and value for their membership. Sometimes, a simple message asking for feedback or offering help can open the door to reengagement.

3. Cross-Selling to Product Purchasers

Identifying Purchasing Patterns:

Tag members based on their purchases, like tagging someone who signed up for a beginner's course as “Course-Beginner”.

Use this information to recommend advanced courses or related products, creating a natural progression in their learning journey.

Creating an Ecosystem of Complementary Products/Services:
Introduce them to other aspects of your platform that complement their purchase. For example, if they’ve bought a course, introduce them to a relevant community group or additional resources.

This strategy is about enhancing their overall experience, not just pushing more products.

Building a Community, Not Just a Customer Base

Each of these strategies goes beyond traditional member communications. They're about building a community, where each member feels heard and valued. 

Focus on providing messaging that really benefits them, builds their trust in your product, and enhances their experience. 

The Power Of Email Segmentation: A Black Friday Case Study

Let's take a look at how one brand hit it out of the park with their Black Friday campaign, boosting sales by an incredible 300% through smart email segmentation. This story is a great showcase of what happens when you get member communications just right.

Strategy Overview

This brand got creative and divided its audience into four groups: non-customers, past customers, existing lower-tiered customers, and top-tier customers. Each group received emails crafted just for them, fitting their unique relationship with the brand.

1. Non-Customers: Show and Tell

For folks who hadn't bought anything yet, the brand rolled out the red carpet. They shared the best parts about their products, topped with some glowing testimonials. The idea was to turn curiosity into clicks and clicks into sales.

They also ran a competition on RafflePress to enhance engagement and incentivize social sharing of their Black Friday offer.

2. Past Customers: Look What’s New

Past customers got a nudge about all the cool new features and updates. The goal was to reignite their interest and bring them back into the fold.

3. Existing Lower-Tiered Customers: Sweet Upgrade Deal

The brand made a tempting offer to their lower-tier customers: upgrade to a better plan for less than the cost of renewing the current one. It was a clever move to show the value of higher tiers for customers.

4. Top-Tier Customers: More to Love

For the loyal top-tier customers, it was all about cross-selling. The brand suggested products that complemented what they already had, making sure these suggestions added real value to their existing investments.

Results and Reflections

This targeted and thoughtful approach really paid off. Engagement, conversions, sales – everything went up. Each group felt like the brand was talking directly to them, which is a big win in the world of marketing.

This Black Friday success story is a testament to the magic of getting your email segmentation just right. By truly understanding different customer needs and speaking their language, this brand saw some amazing results.

Wrapping Up: Making the Most of WishList Member and Campaign Refinery for Awesome Member Communications

Throughout this blog, we've seen how combining WishList Member with Campaign Refinery really steps up your member communications, bringing a fresh and effective approach to connecting with your audience.

By blending the robust functionality of WishList Member with the dynamic email capabilities of Campaign Refinery, you have the power to transform your member engagement strategies.

Key Takeaways:

• Tailored Communication: With automated tagging and segmentation, you can ensure that every message you send is relevant and personalized, deeply resonating with each member’s unique journey.
  
• Enhanced Engagement: From re-engaging past members to enticing current ones to upgrade or explore new products, this integration allows you to create meaningful connections that drive loyalty and growth.
  
• Measurable Results: The success stories, like the Black Friday campaign case study, demonstrate the tangible impact of well-executed, segmented communication strategies.

Now, it's your turn to experience the magic of this integration. Explore WishList Member today and see how it can elevate your platform’s communication and member engagement.

If you have any thoughts or experiences to share regarding member communications, or if you're just excited about these possibilities, drop a comment below. We love hearing from our readers!

And don’t forget, for more insightful tips and tricks on membership site management and marketing strategies, subscribe to our blog. Stay tuned, stay informed, and let's keep growing together.

Here's to your success in creating a thriving, engaged community!

Found this blog useful? Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn for more tips and best practices to make the most of your membership site.

It's no secret that speed is a major demand for online consumers. In the age of TikTok and Amazon Prime, a fast website is non-negotiable. 

For better or worse, the simple fact is our patience died with dialup and Limewire. Now if your site takes more than a couple of seconds to load, you’re in trouble. 

No one likes waiting around. Not your visitors, not search engines, and definitely not you. 

So, we’ve loaded this blog with tips and tools on how to boost your WordPress website's speed.  

We'll walk you through why WishList Member is your go-to for a speed-optimized site and pair it with some killer tools to send your site supersonic! 

Let’s go go go!

Why Site Speed is Important

Hey, welcome to the fast lane! Let's cut the chase – speed is a make-or-break factor for your website for two main reasons:

1. Fast Loading is Critical For User Engagement

You know that frustration that sets in when you click on a site and – ugh – it's taking its sweet time? You're not alone. 

53% of mobile users will abandon a site if it takes longer than 3 seconds to load. That's over half your audience saying “thanks, but no thanks.”

Still not convinced? How about this: a one-second delay in page load time can lead to a 7% loss in conversions. Ouch! Long story short: if your website is dragging its feet, you're watching money walk out the door.

2. Speed's Impact on SEO

But it's not just your human visitors you need to worry about – search engines are picky too. Google has been using site speed as a ranking factor since 2010. If you’re late to the party, you’ll be at the end of a long line of search results. 

Think about it: faster sites create happy users, and Google is all about user experience. So, if you're wondering why your site is stuck on page 10 of search results, maybe it's time to look under the hood and get things running smoothly.

How to Measure Your WordPress Website's Speed: Know Where You Stand

Before you get to work on amping up your website's speed, you've got to know where you're starting from. It's like timing your first 5k run – you need a baseline to measure your progress.

Remember, 3 seconds is the tipping point when mobile users will abandon your site. But Google sets the number a little lower, at 2.5 seconds. 

Whatever your current speed, there’s always room for improvement. For every 100 milliseconds cut off a site’s loading time, bounce rates drop and conversion rates rise. 

So where does your site currently stand?

Here are a couple of free, go-to tools to help you figure out if your site is a hare or a tortoise:

Google PageSpeed Insights

Straight from the horse's mouth. Google's tool gives you a detailed analysis of your site's speed on both desktop and mobile. It even offers suggestions for improvement.

GTmetrix

 This is another excellent tool that goes beyond just loading time. It gives you a complete performance report and tips on things like optimizing images and leveraging browser caching.

Run these tests to get an idea of what's slowing you down. Armed with this knowledge, you can target your speed-boosting efforts where they'll have the most impact.

Basic Tips for Speeding Up WordPress – No Rocket Science Required

Before we dig deeper into how WishList Member can rev up your website, let's cover some foundational speed-boosting hacks. Consider these the low-hanging fruit – easy to implement but with an undeniable impact on your website's speed.

1. Image Optimization

Let's start simple: those pretty pictures? They're heavy. 

Use tools like ShortPixel or Smush to compress and optimize your images without sacrificing quality. 

You could cut your image size in half, making them load faster and keeping your visitors happy.

2. Caching

Browser caching stores static files locally, so returning visitors don’t have to reload the entire page. Plugins like WP Super Cache can automate this for you. 

3. Minification

Ever look at a website's code? It’s like a foreign language with extra spaces and characters. Minification strips out all the unnecessary stuff, making your site lighter and faster. 

There are several great free plugins can do this for you, so no excuses! Autoptimize is a popular option.

4. Reduce Server Requests – Choose a Sleek Theme

The more elements on a page – like scripts, images, and CSS files – the more server requests are needed to load it. 

One immediate action you can take? Choose a sleek and streamlined theme for your website. 

Many themes come packed with widgets, sliders, and flashy elements that are server request hogs. 

Opt for a theme that gives you just what you need, and nothing more. This will not only improve your site speed but also make for a cleaner, more user-friendly design. After all, when speed is the goal, less really is more.

5. Leverage Content Delivery Networks (CDNs)

Want to go global? Use a CDN like Cloudflare to distribute your content around the world. This way, a user in Australia isn’t waiting for your server in the U.S. to wake up.

6. Opt for Optimized Hosting

Think of hosting as the home of your website. Would you rather live in a sluggish, crowded apartment or a zippy, well-maintained mansion? Services like WP Engine offer specialized hosting that’s tailored for WordPress speed.

And there you have it! These are some straightforward steps you can take today to see an immediate improvement in your WordPress site's speed. 

Why WishList Member is a Speed-Savvy Choice for Membership Sites

So you've tuned up your website with some basic speed fixes. You’ve trimmed it of the unnecessary bloat. 

But running a membership site or an online course often means grappling with plugins that can put a drag on your site speed. 

Not so with WishList Member. 

For those who want to keep things zippy, WishList Member is the MVP of plugins. Let's get into it.

Regular Updates for Speed Optimization

In the dynamic world of WordPress and website performance, standing still is falling behind. That’s why WishList Member is frequently updated. 

This helps ensure that your membership site remains optimized for speed and security.

Compatibility With Speed-Optimizing Plugins

Have a favorite speed-boosting plugin or two? No problem. WishList Member gets along with your existing speed-optimizing plugins.

Whether you’re using caching solutions or image optimization tools, WishList Member aims to slide right into your existing ecosystem without throwing a wrench in the works.

Tailored Caching for Your Membership Site

WishList Member doesn't just lean on WordPress’s built-in caching; it takes it up a notch. With compatibility for persistent caching plugins like WP Super Cache, it adds another layer of speed to your site.

But while caching is great news for loading speeds, it can be a double-edged sword for membership platforms.

WishList Member has a smart solution. Caching for logged-in users can serve stale or incorrect content, disrupt personalized experiences, and even pose security risks. WishList Member has a Cookie Prefix setting which you can use to bypass caching for logged-in members.

This ensures your members get real-time, personalized content without compromising on speed or security.

Streamlining Content Creation and Membership Management

Running a membership site involves a lot of moving parts, and each additional task – whether it's content creation or member management – can potentially slow down your website. 

That’s why you need a plugin that streamlines these tasks without compromising on speed. Enter WishList Member.

WishList Member's intuitive dashboard doesn't just simplify content creation; it also minimizes the clicks and time needed for administrative tasks, contributing to a more efficient – and therefore faster – website. 

When you spend less time toggling between settings and screens, you reduce server load and increase your site’s responsiveness.

On the management side, the speed and ease of use continue to shine. Whether you're looking to add new member levels or shift existing members from one level to another, WishList Member makes it a breeze. 

The user interface is snappy, ensuring that you don't have to wait around while making these critical changes. 

Plus, the capability to perform multiple membership functions en masse means you’re not bogged down with one-by-one adjustments.

This reduces the time and server resources spent on admin tasks, indirectly contributing to a faster, more efficient website.

In Conclusion: 

So now you’re up to speed on all you need to know! From grasping the essential role of a speed-optimized site in both user engagement and SEO, to implementing basic yet impactful fixes, we've covered it all. 

And for those running membership sites or online courses, WishList Member stands out as an invaluable ally for maintaining a brisk and seamless user experience.

Speed isn't just a nice-to-have; it's a must-have. A faster website doesn't just please your visitors; it also offers you a competitive edge in search engine rankings. 

Every second counts, and now you're armed with the knowledge and tools to make each one work in your favor.

Ready to shift into high gear? Get WishList Member today and supercharge your WordPress membership site's speed and performance!

Apply these tips and tricks, invest in WishList Member, and watch your site transition from laggy to lightning-fast. Happy speeding! 

Got any tips to share with the WishList Member community? Let us know in the comments section below.

Found this blog useful? Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn for more tips and best practices to make the most of your membership site.

Considering launching a profitable online course in 2024? You're on the right track! The virtual chalkboards are buzzing and eclassrooms are filling up as the digital education sector grows at an exhilarating pace. The time is ripe to cash in on your expertise. 

With the right resources, you can make serious money from your knowledge. But, you might be asking yourself which topics will make me the most bank?

The good news is, there's a whole load of lucrative ideas for online course niches waiting for you to choose from. 

So, what gets your gears turning? Be it technology, art, or personal development – your enthusiasm can be your currency. With your unique skills and the right set of digital tools, you're already ahead of the curve.

In this article, we'll look at why now’s a great time to start an online course business and what to consider before you start. 

Plus, we'll unveil an extensive list of over 199 suggestions to inspire your course creation journey. 

So get your notebooks ready, class is in session!

Why is Now a Great Time to Start an Online Course Business?

Before we delve into the Ivy League of top-performing online courses, let's chalk up some compelling reasons to set your sights on this digital educational venture.

The online course industry is skyrocketing, and now’s the perfect moment to make your mark. 

To illustrate, let's open the financial yearbook: in 2022, revenue from Learning Management Systems (LMSs) alone reached a staggering $18 billion.

Top-of-class players in the online education domain include platforms like Coursera, Skillshare, and EdX.

Successful online courses aren’t just the realm of  large corporations or conventional educational institutions like schools and colleges. If you have valuable knowledge in a particular area, you can don your virtual tweed jacket and step into the role of a teacher.

Moreover, with an intuitive Content Management System (CMS) such as WordPress, there's no need to rely on third-party platforms to market your courses. 

You can showcase them directly on your personal website, cutting out the middle man, and granting you full authority over your material.

Starting an online course business paves the way for consistent revenue streams, positioning it as a dependable and minimal-risk avenue to capitalize on your skills on an already established website.

The time is ripe for turning your wisdom into wealth.

Essential Preparations for Your Online Course Launch

Before you embark on your online course journey, let's pause for a study break to discuss some essential prep work.

Pop Quiz Q1: Have You Set Up a Website?

First on the syllabus: setting up your digital campus. You need a website. WordPress stands out as a free, open source content management system. It can help you create any type of website, including one specifically designed for an online course business.

Additionally, its user-friendly design is perfect for beginners. To get started, you’ll just need to register with a web hosting provider, secure a domain name, and install WordPress. Once done, you're all set to craft and create your website.

Pop Quiz Q2: What Course Structure Would You Like To Adopt?

A popular strategy is to have students pay for each individual course. The student pays upfront for the entire course, and can access each lesson on demand.

This method can pose a financial burden on your students. They may be hesitant to fork out on a big initial payment. 

It’s also not ideal for you, the course provider. A single payment strategy lacks the predictability and regularity of a subscription model, making it trickier to forecast your cash flow and make smart investments for your business.

A good alternative is to think about creating a membership or subscription-based business. This way, you can drip course content to your students, and they can spread their payments over a longer period. 

This approach also enhances course engagement. With the on-demand approach, some students may feel overwhelmed by the amount of course content ahead of them if they see it all at once. Or they may binge and burnout before course completion. 

By dripping your course content, you’re helping your students pace the race through to graduation. 

Pop Quiz Q3: What Learning Management System (LMS) Will You Use?

You'll want to choose an LMS that's both robust and user-friendly, one that offers the customization you need without compromising on ease of use. 

Enter WishList Member, a WordPress plugin designed specifically for creating and managing membership sites and online courses.

WishList Member: The Versatile Solution

WishList Member is the perfect option for entrepreneurs and businesses who want full control over their online course offerings. 

It’s a membership and subscription plugin with all the features and capabilities of an LMS.

Unlike standard LMSs that can be restrictive in terms of customization, WishList Member offers unparalleled flexibility. Set up multiple, membership levels, protect course content, and create a dynamic and interactive learning experience for your students.

Simple and Secure Payment Integration

One of the standout features is its seamless integration with various payment gateways, providing you with multiple options to handle transactions. Whether you're using Stripe, PayPal, or other payment methods, WishList Member makes it simple.

CourseCure: Your In-House Course Builder

Embedded within WishList Member is CourseCure, a robust course builder designed to streamline the creation of your online courses. 

This tool eliminates the need to rely on third-party applications for course creation, offering you an all-in-one solution for your online education business.

• User-Friendly Interface: The intuitive design ensures that even those without technical skills can easily navigate the course building process.

• Drag-and-Drop Functionality: Crafting a syllabus is as easy as dragging and dropping course elements into place.

• Content Scheduling: CourseCure allows you to schedule the release of your content, giving you full control over the learning pace of your students.

• Interactive Quizzes and Assessments: Easily create engaging quizzes and assessments to monitor student progress and increase engagement.

• Gamification: Use points and badges to enhance student engagement and increase course completion rates.

With WishList Member and CourseCure, you not only gain a reliable LMS but also an integrated course builder that simplifies the technical aspects of offering an online course. 

This combination provides a comprehensive, low-risk solution for your online educational venture, making it easier for you to focus on delivering quality content.

Zoom Integration for Live Classes

WishList Member also offers a fully-supported Zoom add-on which enables students to easily sign up for live-classes, 1:1 sessions, and more.

This integration means you can easily offer a premium, more personalized service to higher-paying students, or offer exclusive live sessions as an optional extra with an added fee.

Over 199 Profitable Ideas for Online Courses in 2024: Top-Performing Subjects Unveiled

Now that we've laid the groundwork, it's time to explore our comprehensive list of over 199 profitable online course ideas for 2024.

To make your search easier, we've sorted these potential subjects into major themes and niches that we’ve seen grow in popularity over the years.

Self-Improvement Digital Course Suggestions

Let’s start in the realm of personal growth. Here are some promising ideas for online course for you to explore:

1. Mastering interview techniques
2. Effective study strategies
3. Art of public speaking
4. Navigating career progression
5. Addressing and resolving conflicts
6. The science of negotiation
7. Building resilience in challenging times
8. Enhancing emotional intelligence
9. Promoting positive psychology
10. Understanding and practicing ethics
11. Courses addressing anti-racism
12. Exploring diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)
13. Boosting productivity
14. Efficient time management techniques
15. Leadership skills and development

As you can see, the self-improvement category is HUGE and offers many subjects to consider.

Online Course Ideas for Personal Finance

Next, let’s explore the realm of personal finance. 

People with a keen interest in this area often possess significant capital (or at least hope to!). This makes them great candidates for investing in online courses, as long as you showcase your expertise and credibility.

Here's a curated list of course topics tailored for the personal finance domain:

1. Foundations of personal finance
2. Mastering the art of budgeting
3. Strategies for effective savings
4. Navigating interest rates and debt management
5. Highlighting personal investment avenues
6. Introduction to micro-investing
7. Insights into real estate investment
8. Planning for a comfortable retirement
9. Managing and optimizing employee benefits
10. Comprehensive guides to personal finance software
11. Financial roadmap for young adults
12. Exploring the world of cryptocurrency
13. Achieving financial well-being
14. Stock trading techniques and strategies
15. Tailored financial planning (e.g., preparing for a new baby, home acquisition, etc.)

This is another big niche, allowing you to either provide a holistic overview or provide niche-specific financial objectives, such as saving up for a vehicle or home purchase.

Digital Music Course Ideas

For those blessed with musical talent, the online space offers many opportunities to share and teach. Here's a compilation of potential music course topics:

1. Understanding music theory
2. The art of music composition
3. Techniques in vocal training
4. Piano mastery
5. Guitar essentials
6. Rhythms in drumming
7. Bass guitar fundamentals
8. Violin virtuosity
9. Cello craftsmanship
10. Clarinet clarity
11. Trumpet techniques
12. Insights into music production
13. Journey through music history
14. Exploring concert technology
15. Improvisational Jazz

The beauty of this field lies in its depth and breadth. For instance, if you're passionate about music history, you could curate a series exploring the evolution of various genres or the legacy of iconic rock bands.

Digital Culinary Course Ideas

As highlighted by GlobalNewswire, the online culinary domain is projected to reach an impressive valuation of nearly $486 million by 2027. 

For culinary enthusiasts, be it professionals or home chefs, this presents endless opportunities. We’ve cooked up these profitable ideas for courses related to food and drink:

1. Culinary basics for novices
2. Economical cooking techniques
3. Plant-based and vegan culinary arts
4. Mastery in pastries
5. The art of bread crafting
6. Comprehensive baking sessions
7. Mixology and cocktail crafting
8. The joy of jam creation
9. Delicacies from Italy
10. Flavors of Mexican cuisine
11. Exploring Japanese gastronomy
12. French dessert specialties
13. Chinese culinary delights
14. Indian culinary traditions
15. Classic American dishes

Given the unique touch every chef imparts, this niche is especially promising for those with an established audience or followers.

Some food for thought!

Guidance for Parenting: Online Course Suggestions

With the millennial parenting sector now estimated at a whopping $46 billion by Forbes, there's immense potential in this area. Here's a curated list of course topics tailored for this segment:

1. Preparing for childbirth
2. Guidance on lactation and breastfeeding
3. Techniques for baby sleep routines
4. Nutrition essentials for infants and toddlers
5. Newborn care basics
6. Fostering early parent-child bonding
7. Exploring the science behind parenting
8. Tailored courses for parents navigating divorce
9. Support courses for single parenting
10. Guidance for parents raising bi-racial children
11. Specialized courses for parents of children with ADHD or ADD
12. Insights for adoptive parents
13. Navigating the challenges of parenting teenagers
14. Enhancing child-parent communication
15. Parenting strategies in today's digital world

Given the inclination of new parents towards community-building, this niche perfectly aligns with the idea of introducing a membership model alongside your course offerings. 

Digital Course Ideas for Artists

The realm of arts and crafts is a treasure trove of potential online course topics, teeming with creativity and diverse areas of interest.

Consider these artistic course themes:

1. Fundamentals of drawing
2. The art of painting
3. Mastering calligraphy
4. Capturing moments: Photography
5. Crafting with papier-mâché
6. Mastering jewelry creation
7. Educational craft projects
8. The cozy world of knitting
9. Techniques in crocheting
10. Sewing essentials
11. The magic of sculpting
12. Creating unique stamps
13. The craft of bookbinding
14. Designing handmade dolls
15. Embroidery techniques and patterns

The versatility of this niche is its strength. Whether catering to parents seeking engaging activities for their children or adults pursuing a creative outlet, the possibilities are endless.

Health, Wellness, and Fitness Digital Course Suggestions

The health and wellness market is currently valued at over $4 trillion! This gives you nearly infinite opportunities to carve out your own niche. If you possess expertise in fitness or sports medicine, this area could be a goldmine for you.

Here's a list of potential course topics within this niche:

1. Guided meditation sessions
2. Nutrition-focused programs
3. Regimens for weight management
4. Strategies for effective meal preparation
5. Training guides for half-marathons or full marathons
6. Yoga practices
7. Pilates routines
8. Insights into herbal treatments
9. Comprehensive guides on natural healing
10. Exploring vegetarian and vegan lifestyles
11. Introduction to Reiki
12. Mastering sleep routines for better health
13. Focused courses on women's well-being
14. Men's health insights
15. Understanding gut health and its importance

It's crucial to note that content within this sector can influence an individual's mental and physical well-being. Meticulous course design and showcasing your qualifications are critically important in this niche.

Digital Marketing Course Ideas

The realm of digital marketing is vast and brimming with opportunities for lucrative course offerings. Here's a compilation to kickstart your brainstorming:

1. Digital marketing fundamentals
2. Strategies in social media marketing
3. The art of content marketing
4. The essentials of affiliate marketing
5. The world of influencer marketing
6. Harnessing video for marketing
7. Email marketing techniques
8. Strategies for ecommerce marketing
9. Blogging essentials
10. Mastering the craft of copywriting
11. Unraveling the nuances of Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
12. Marketing through podcasts
13. Exploring AI's role in marketing
14. Deciphering digital marketing analytics
15. Ethical approaches in marketing

The dynamic nature of digital marketing ensures it's always in flux, introducing fresh concepts and strategies. This ever-evolving landscape means any of the aforementioned subjects could be molded into a top-tier online course offering.

Online Course Ideas for Business & Entrepreneurial Ventures

While the digital marketing domain is ripe with course opportunities, the sphere of entrepreneurship is equally promising and expansive.

Here's a curated list of course topics tailored for budding entrepreneurs:

1. Foundations of entrepreneurship
2. Harnessing creativity and innovation in business
3. Step-by-step guide to crafting a business website
4. Essentials of business management
5. Building a compelling personal brand
6. Strategies for generating passive income
7. Affiliate blogging for beginners
8. Navigating the world of investor relations
9. Comprehensive guide to essential business tools
10. Building and nurturing business partnerships
11. Mastering the art of business writing
12. Principles of sustainable business practices
13. Cultivating a growth mindset
14. Tailored insights for startup ventures
15. Enhancing business communication prowess

This arena is vast and offers dozens of unique angles. So, let your creativity flow and design courses that resonate with your target audience.

Ideas for Online Course About Gardening & Home Life

For those blessed with a knack for nurturing plants or adeptness with home tools, there are a ton of online course ideas to dig into, including…

1. Gardening 101: An Overview
2. The world of flower cultivation
3. Growing your own vegetables
4. Crafting a herb sanctuary
5. The science of aquaponic gardening
6. Techniques in plant propagation
7. Exploring viticulture
8. Basics of home maintenance
9. Transformative home renovation
10. Step-by-step guide to deck construction
11. Art of landscaping
12. Efficient irrigation methods
13. Flooring essentials
14. Navigating household electrical wiring
15. Mastery in carpentry

If you’ve got a green (or calloused) thumb to show for your gardening and DIY skills, share your pro tips with the world!

Digital Language Learning Course Suggestions

Possessing proficiency in a foreign language and having the knack to teach it places you in an advantageous position. Online language courses are a promising avenue for those looking to venture into the elearning domain.

Here's a curated list of languages that could be potential course offerings:

1. Business English
2. Speaking Spanish for Beginners
3. French fundamentals
4. Immersion in Italian
5. Grasping German
6. Exploring Portuguese
7. Introduction to Chinese
8. Mastering Mandarin
9. Journey through Japanese
10. Rudiments of Russian
11. Hindi essentials
12. Arabic articulation
13. Korean comprehension
14. Venturing into Vietnamese
15. Pursuing Punjabi

While the list emphasizes potentially high-demand languages, teaching a niche or less prevalent language could also carve out a unique space for you in the market.

Digital Course Ideas for Eco-Conscious Living

With a growing emphasis on eco-friendly choices, sustainable living has emerged as a prominent niche in the online course domain, reflecting the consumer shift towards sustainable products and packaging.

Here's a compilation of potential course topics tailored for this domain:

1. Foundations of sustainable living
2. Eco-friendly gardening techniques
3. Embracing a zero-waste lifestyle
4. Sustainable fashion choices
5. Harnessing renewable energy for households
6. Mindful consumption practices
7. Eco-conscious transportation methods
8. Waste minimization and recycling strategies
9. Going plant-based for the environment
10. Techniques for water preservation
11. Eco-tourism and sustainable travel insights
12. Advocacy for climate change
13. Effective sustainable waste handling
14. Principles of ethical investment
15. Raising eco-aware children: Green parenting

Given the interdisciplinary nature of sustainability, this niche offers a diverse range of topics, catering to a wide audience with varied interests.

Digital Course Concepts for Beauty & Cosmetics

The beauty sector is undeniably lucrative, with the beauty and personal care industry in the U.S. alone boasting a valuation exceeding $92 billion this year.

Here's a curated list of course topics tailored for this domain:

1. Makeup basics: A beginner's guide
2. Train in theatrical makeup
3. Advanced techniques in theatrical makeup
4. Bridal makeup essentials
5. Exploring color palettes in makeup
6. Ensuring makeup hygiene
7. Techniques in eyebrow microblading
8. Courses on eyebrow tinting
9. Mastery in lash tinting and curling
10. Nail care: Manicures and pedicures
11. The art of facials
12. Waxing essentials
13. Tailored skincare routines for varied skin types
14. Embracing natural skincare
15. The world of clean beauty

Given the specialized tools and equipment some of these courses might require, this niche is particularly apt for those already in the beauty business, seeking to diversify their offerings.

Digital Course Ideas for Home Aesthetics & Design

Finally, let’s consider the realm of interior design, a sector boasting multi-billion dollar valuations, and home decor, here are some curated course themes:

1. Introduction to the world of interior design
2. The role of color in shaping interiors
3. Techniques in home adornment and styling
4. Mastery in interior wall painting
5. Home staging for real estate appeal
6. Principles of Feng shui in design
7. The art of flower arrangement
8. Crafting restaurant interiors
9. Designing productive office spaces
10. DIY projects for home decor enthusiasts
11. Embracing minimalist design aesthetics
12. Design solutions for compact spaces
13. Illuminating homes: Lighting techniques
14. Retro and vintage decor insights
15. The simplicity of Scandinavian interiors

This concludes our compilation of potential bestsellers in the online course arena for 2024!

Final Thoughts

Now’s a fantastic time to start your online course venture. When you equip your virtual classroom with stalwart tools like WordPress and WishList Member, your pathway from chalkboard to profitable online courses becomes a walk across the graduation stage.

Ready for your homework assignment? Pinpoint a high-demand course subject that matches your field of expertise, and get creative with your course content!

Whether you're an authority on health and wellness, a guru to guide parents, or a maestro of personal finance, our carefully curated list of over 199 ideas for online courses is your study guide to success.

Class participation counts! We're eager to read your comments, questions, and insights about the profitable online courses spotlighted in this academic journal, ahem, article. So, grab your virtual pen and jot your thoughts down in the comments section below.

If this syllabus, er, article has enriched your knowledge, connect with us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn. And for extra credit, don't forget to subscribe to keep up with our future lectures!

You've got a great idea for a membership site and you're ready to get it off the ground. The first thing on your to-do list is to pick the right content management system (CMS) to act as the backbone of your website.

Starting a subscription site from scratch can be tough, especially if you're not a coder. That's why some users opt for platforms that offer built-in membership features.

But be careful – these platforms can lock you into a rigid structure that can’t grow with your business.

Fear not! There's a user-friendly, feature-packed, sturdy, and highly adaptable option that's a hit among website creators, and doesn't require any coding skills.

We’re talking about WordPress, the #1 CMS that powers over 800 million websites, and counting!

WordPress is by far the best CMS for membership sites when paired with a great membership plugin like WishList Member.

And you’re about to find out why!

Let’s hop to it.

What To Look For in a CMS for Membership Sites

A content management system (CMS) is your website's control center. It's where you create, edit, and manage all your content without needing a degree in computer science.

But when it comes to membership sites, you need a CMS that does more than just the basics. Here's what to look for:

User Experience (UX)

Both you and your members should find your site’s front and back end easy to navigate, with intuitive layouts and responsive design.

For admins, great UX means it’s easy, and even downright enjoyable to add new content to your site, manage user accounts, and switch up your strategy.

If you’re nervous about adding or editing things in the backend, you simply won’t be able to be the responsive membership site owner you have the potential to be!

For your members, great user experience is critical for their acquisition and retention. Their experience from registration to login to accessing paywalled content should be seamless.

There’s no excuse for glitchy sites with such great options out there.

Security

Membership sites deal with sensitive stuff like user info and credit card details. You need a CMS that's got your back with top-notch security features.

Payment Processing

Whether it's recurring payments, upgrades, or refunds, handling money should be a breeze.

Content Access Management

Your CMS should easily manage a growing library of exclusive goodies and offer flexible ways to put them behind a paywall.

Scalability

As your member count rises, your CMS should be able to keep up and adapt to your growing needs and ever-changing business goals. Scalability impacts everything else on the list above!

The more members you have, the more you will demand your CMS to uphold things like security and payment processing. You need a CMS that can withstand the pressure!

Why WordPress is the Best Membership Site CMS

WordPress started off as a simple blogging tool but quickly grew into a versatile CMS that can handle just about anything you throw at it.

With the right add-ons, you can transform WordPress into a membership site, set up an online shop, or even showcase a digital portfolio. Here are five reasons why it's awesome:

1. Flexibility Galore

Most off-the-shelf platforms box you in. You can't add new features easily, and messing with the code is usually a no-go.

WordPress is different. It's open-source, which means you can tweak it to your heart's content. And if you're not a coder, no worries! There are tons of themes to pick from that'll make your site look great.

But the Real Magic? Plugins.

These little add-ons can do everything from boosting your SEO to setting up an affiliate program. Whether it's email marketing or creating custom forms, there's a plugin for that.

Simply put, WordPress gives you the freedom to build the site you've always dreamed of.

​​2. Easy to Learn and Use

If you're new to the world of CMSs, WordPress is your best bet. Unlike other platforms like Drupal or Joomla, WordPress is designed with the beginner in mind.

Many hosting services offer one-click WordPress installations, so you're just a click away from logging into your new dashboard.

The admin area is straightforward, with an intuitive built-in updates management system to keep your tools up-to-date and secure.

And if you're not comfortable with coding, that's okay! Most themes and plugins are beginner-friendly, and there are great and extensive resources like WPBeginner to help you out.

3. Keeps Your Site Safe and Sound

Security is a big deal, especially when you're handling sensitive user and payment information. WordPress is continually updated to patch potential security vulnerabilities.

Many hosting services even offer automatic updates as part of their package.

On top of that, there are specialized security plugins like Jetpack that add an extra layer of protection against common threats.

Just remember to follow best practices like using strong passwords and keeping your plugins updated.

4. All the Membership Tools You Need

The WordPress community is bustling with developers creating plugins for almost every functionality you can think of.

Our WishList Member plugin, for example, allows you to create a members-only area, drip exclusive content, and much more.

It offers features like member registration, user access control, and easy payment processing.

It also offers its very own course builder packed with essential LMS features, CourseCure.

5. Easy on the Wallet

Budget is often a concern for small businesses and solopreneurs. WordPress is a cost-effective solution.

Hosting services like HostGator offer packages starting at just $3.75 per month, often including a free domain for the first year.

While you may need to invest in premium themes or plugins as you grow, these costs are usually much lower than what you'd pay for similar features on other platforms.

Pairing WordPress with WishList Member For Your Membership Site

When it comes to membership site plugins, WishList Member has stood the test of time. It's the original membership site plugin that has continually evolved to meet the ever-changing needs of membership site owners.

But don't let its age fool you – WishList Member is as cutting-edge as they come, packed with features designed to help you grow your business.

Why WishList Member is a Game-Changer

Ease of Use

WishList Member is designed to be user-friendly. You don't need to be a tech wizard to set up your membership site.

With its intuitive interface, you can easily manage members, create different membership levels, and set up content protection – all from one dashboard.

Flexible Membership Options

One of the standout features of WishList Member is its flexibility. Whether you want to offer free trials, recurring subscriptions, or one-time payments, WishList Member has got you covered.

This flexibility allows you to experiment with different pricing models to see what resonates most with your audience.

Content Dripping

Keep your members engaged by releasing content over time. WishList Member's content dripping feature ensures that your members always have something new to look forward to, increasing retention rates.

Robust Security Features

Security is paramount, and WishList Member takes it seriously. The plugin offers multiple layers of protection to keep your content and member data safe. This peace of mind allows you to focus on what you do best – growing your business.

Integrated Course Builder: CourseCure

WishList Member goes beyond basic membership features by offering its very own course builder, CourseCure.

This built-in LMS allows you to create and manage courses without needing an additional plugin, making it a one-stop-shop for all your membership site needs.

WishList Member is a comprehensive membership site solution that empowers you to build, manage, and grow a successful membership business.

With its rich feature set and user-friendly interface, WishList Member and WordPress together make for a powerful combination that's hard to beat.

Your Path to a Thriving Membership Site Starts Here

Choosing the right CMS for your membership site is a decision that will have a lasting impact on your business.

As we've discussed, WordPress stands out as the most versatile, secure, and user-friendly option available.

When paired with a powerful plugin like WishList Member you're laying the foundation for a thriving online community on your membership site.

From its ease of use to its robust security features, WordPress offers everything you need to get started.

Plus, with the added capabilities of WishList Member, you can easily manage members, offer flexible payment options, and even build courses right within your site.

It's a combination that offers both power and simplicity, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to create a successful membership site.

So, are you ready to turn that great idea into a booming membership site? The universe has aligned, the tools are ready, and your audience is waiting.

Go ahead, take that leap and make your membership site dreams a reality today!

Found this blog useful? Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn for more tips and best practices to make the most of your membership site.

The rise of the creator landscape has opened doors for innovators to monetize their unique ideas. With tools like WishList Member, launching a membership site is more accessible than ever.

Having a comprehensive set of membership site statistics can give you the confidence to navigate the evolving landscape.

There's a vast array of membership sites out there. In this article, we zoom in on three defining categories in the industry:

• Educational Platforms (Learning Management Systems)
• Association Membership Models
• Subscription-Based Platforms

This information will not only guide your marketing efforts but also offer a peek into future trends in your niche.

Ready to get going? Let the numbers commence!

Learning Management Systems (LMS) Stats

An increasing number of companies are turning to learning management systems (LMS) to develop online educational platforms or incorporate educational elements into their membership sites. It's an effective strategy to enhance your business's value and expand its offerings.

WishList Member Courses, the integrated LMS within WishList Member ensures a seamless and efficient setup. It's backed with features to help you quickly and easily set up an engaging course to add to your membership site.

Now, let's delve into the LMS platform market.

• A 2023 market research report by Fortune Business Insights revealed that the global LMS market size was valued at $16.19billion. This year it's expected to grow to $18.26 billion.
  
  
• By 2030, that number is projeced to grow to a massive $47.47 billion.
  
  
• The fastest growing market is Europe while the largest market is North America according to a report by Straits Research.
  
  
• Growth is attributed to improved internet connectivity, higher adoption of smartphone technologies in educational institutions and the increasing preference of consumers for LMSs.
  
  
• Over 40% of Fortune 500 companies use elearning or LMSs to onboard and train employees according to eLearning Industry.
  
  
• LMS users use the following devices to access their online courses: desktop (89%),  laptop (76%), tablet (25%), and smartphone (19%). This suggests a necessity for LMSs to be responsive in order to cater to the various preferences of students.
  
  
• The top-requested LMS functionalities between 2022-2023 were certification and compliance management (53%), content authoring (15%) and course libraries (15%). (Capterra)
  
  
• The average LMS software budget ranges between $15-$40 per user.
  
  

Association Membership Statistics

Associations typically represent smaller entities dedicated to a specific profession, trade, or philanthropic cause. They often collaborate with individual member organizations, trade collectives, or a blend of both.

The primary purpose of these associations is to foster knowledge exchange, promote best practices, expand member networks, and champion their members' interests.

Unlike mainstream businesses, association membership organizations cater to a distinct audience with specialized needs.

The ethos of each association is often shaped by its industry or cause. Now, let's explore some valuable insights to enhance association marketing and bolster member recruitment.

• The top reasons people join associations are: networking opportunities (64%); continued education (39%) and learning best practices in their profession (33%).
  
  
• 49% of associations reported an increase in membership last year, up from 38% in 2022, and 26% in 2021, showing a sharp upward trend in membership uptake over the past 3 years.
  
  
• In 2023, association memberships used the following channels to recruit new members: email (85%), organic social media (67%) and association-sponsored events (66%).

(For tips, tricks, and best practices for sending targeted emails, read our blog on the WishList Member, Campaign Refinery integration)

• The top reasons associations believe prospects are not signing up for membership are: lack of perceived value (60%), lack of brand awareness (39%), lack of financial support from employers (29%).
  
  
• 34% of associations invite members to join their online community as a way of engaging existing members.
  
  
• 48% of associations give members a 2-3 month grace period for accessing benefits after their membership expires.
  
  
• Engagement is the most common challenge for associations with 51% equating lack of engagement with the reason why members failed to renew.
  
  
• Innovation is key when it comes to member attainment and retention. However, only 25% of associations reported as very or extremely innovative. (Marketing General)
  
  
• 13% of associations that added, altered, or canceled events observed an increase in member engagement, indicating that it's important to adjust your strategy. (GrowthZone)
  
  
• 60% offer their members automatic annual payments, 14% offer automatic monthly payments, but only 26% offer both options in 2023.
  
  
• Only 38% have a process in place to reengage churned members.

Subscription Model Statistics

Subscription businesses and services are popping up everywhere, and for good reason. Who doesn't love predictable cashflow and customer loyalty?

Not only that, but consumers are also fast catching on to the convenience of subscriptions over outright ownership. It's no wonder this model is catching on big time.

Let's delve into some pivotal statistics defining the subscription economy. These numbers will show you why everyone's hopping on the subscription train and why it's poised to dominate over the coming years.

• A report early this year valued the digital subscription market at $650 billion.
  
  
• By 2025 it's set to grow to $1.5 trillion according to the latest estimates. (Lineup)
  
  
• 205 million Americans report using at least one subscription service, marking a 23 million increase since 2020.
  
  
• By the end of this year, three quarters (75%) of direct-to-consumer brands are projected to offer subscription services. (RetailDive)
  
  
• Millennials and bridge millennials lead the way in subscribing to retail products, with 39% subscribing to at least one.
  
  
• The average growth of subscription billing vendors stands at between 30% and 50% annually. (The Paypers)
  
  
• According to a survey by Global Banking and Finance, 70% of senior business leaders in key industries including retail and finance believe subscription models are key to growth.
  
  
• 53% of senior finance executives surveyed by the CFO reported hat 40% of their business revenue comes in via a subscription product or service.
  
  
• Over three quarters of businesses say that their subscription service improves customer retention and builds loyalty.
  
  
• Global adoption of the subscription economy is at about 16%, targeted to grow at 30%. (Citi)
  
  
• By 2027, a projected 83% of U.S. households will no longer subscribe to a traditional television service. (Leichtman)
  
  

Tips & Best Practices: What Have We Learned?

Alright, that wraps it up! Hopefully, you've picked up some solid info on the membership game by checking out those three membership types.

There are also plenty of insights to help you switch up your strategy and make better decisions and optimize your membership site. Here are just a few of the tips and best practices we've uncovered:

1. LMS (Learning Management Systems) Best Practices:

• Gamify Your Content: With the rise in popularity of e-learning, it's essential to stand out. Incorporate gamification features like points, badges, and quizzes to make your courses more engaging and interactive. Choose a course builder that incorporates these features (such as CourseCure for WishList Member)
  
  
• Maintain Content Control: Ensure your LMS gives you full control over your content. Being able to make real-time updates, additions, or changes is crucial to adapt to the evolving needs of your audience.
  
  
• Prioritize Responsiveness: The statistics show a diverse range of devices being used to access courses. Opt for LMS solutions that are responsive, ensuring a seamless experience whether your members are on desktops, laptops, tablets, or smartphones.
  
  

2. Association Membership Best Practices:

• Value-Driven Engagement: Given that networking opportunities are a top reason people join associations, consider hosting regular webinars, virtual meet-ups, or forums to facilitate this need.
  
  
• Tailored Marketing: It's essential to understand your audience. Use targeted marketing strategies based on the specific needs and preferences of your potential members.
  
  You might also choose to partner with affiliates with a niche following in your chosen market. Check out WishList Member's integration with the all-in-one affiliate program plugin Easy Affiliate.
  
  
• Re-Engagement Strategies: Since only 38% have a process to reengage churned members, develop a strategy to bring back those who've left. This could be through special offers, feedback surveys, or highlighting new benefits.
  
  

3. Subscription Model Best Practices:

• Diversify Payment Options: Given the varied preferences for payment frequencies, offer multiple subscription payment options, from monthly to annually, to cater to different member needs.
  
  
• Stay Ahead with Trends: With the digital subscription market projected to grow immensely, keep an eye on emerging trends. This will help you adapt your offerings and stay competitive.
  
  
• Focus on Retention: With over three-quarters of businesses saying subscription services improve customer retention, invest in strategies that boost loyalty. This could be through exclusive content, member-only discounts, or regular feedback loops.

By implementing these best practices, you'll be better positioned to maximize the potential of your membership site, whether it's an LMS, an association membership, or a subscription-based platform.

In Summary

It's clear as day: the subscription world is booming and shows no signs of slowing down. Thinking of launching an online course or adding some steady cash flow to your shop? There's no better time than now.

Remember, it's all about offering a quality service that makes life easier for your members. Do that, and you'll see your profits climbing each year.

And hey, start with the right tools to make setting up and managing your membership site a breeze.

Found this blog useful? Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn for more tips and best practices to make the most of your WordPress membership site.