Do You Need an Email Funnel If You Have a Website?

When you’re busy setting up your online business, it can sometimes feel like tech is its own special language. (And not the fun kind, like speaking fluent sarcasm or knowing all the best Friends quotes.)
One of the things that trips so many business owners up is understanding how your website and your email funnel actually work together and more importantly, why you can’t just have one without the other if you really want to grow.

So, let’s break it down, minus the jargon and confusion.

First up, what’s the point of a website?

Your website is like your virtual shopfront. It’s where people can check you out, see what you offer, get a feel for your vibe, and maybe even make a purchase if you’re selling services or products. Think of it as your online business card, your portfolio, and your megaphone all rolled into one.

But here’s the thing:
A website alone is passive. It sits there waiting for people to do something.

If someone pops by, has a nosey, and then disappears forever without leaving their details, that’s it. You’ve lost them probably to a funny cat video or a very convincing Facebook ad.

(We’ve all been there. One minute you’re reading about “top 5 business hacks” and the next you’re buying a mug that says “World’s Okayest Business Owner.” No judgment.)

So, what’s an email funnel then?

An email funnel is your secret weapon to make sure you don’t lose the people who are interested.
It’s basically a fancy way of saying:

“Hey, you seem cool. Wanna stay in touch?”

When someone joins your email list (maybe by downloading a freebie, signing up for a discount, or subscribing to your newsletter), an email funnel nurtures that relationship.
It welcomes them, tells them more about you, builds trust, and gently guides them towards working with you or buying from you.

The big difference?

Your website shows people what you do.
Your email funnel guides people towards taking action.

You’re moving from “Here’s my stuff” to “Here’s why this matters to YOU, and here’s how we can work together.”

Can’t I just have a website and add a signup form?

You can. And it’s better than nothing.
But imagine this:

You walk into a shop.
No one greets you.
No one offers help.
No one asks if you want to join their loyalty program or shows you the cool new stuff.

You’re just… there. Browsing. Confused.
Chances are, you’ll leave empty-handed and forget about it five minutes later.

A good email funnel is like having a friendly (non-pushy) assistant pop up saying: “Hey! Welcome in! Let me show you around. Here’s something you might like. Oh, and here’s how we can keep in touch.”

See the difference?

What Happens When You Combine Both?

That’s where the magic happens.
When your website and your email funnel work together, you’re not just hoping people stick around. You’re actively building a relationship. You’re making it easy for them to move from “huh, interesting” to “where do I sign up?!”

Not Sure Where to Start? I’ve Got You.

If setting up email funnels makes you want to hide under your desk, you are so not alone.
That’s exactly why I created MailerLite Mastery. My step-by-step mini course that shows you how to set up everything you need inside MailerLite without wanting to throw your laptop out the window.

No jargon. No tech tantrums. No fluff. Just clear, simple instructions you can follow even if you’re starting from scratch.

Ready to stop guessing and finally build an email funnel that actually works?

Check out MailerLite Mastery here!