Key takeaways
- Start with one or two channels where your audience already spends time.
- Free channels are slower but compound; paid channels are fast but stop when spending stops.
- Every channel should lead to a funnel entry point, ideally an opt-in.
Channels compared
- Search (SEO): slow to build, durable, high intent.
- Social media: fast feedback, depends on platform algorithms.
- Video (e.g. YouTube): builds trust at scale, strong search component.
- Email and partnerships: borrow trust from existing audiences.
- Paid search: high intent, immediate, cost per click can be significant.
- Paid social: broad targeting, good for lead magnets and retargeting.
- Referrals and word of mouth: high trust, grows with customer satisfaction.
Choosing your first two
- Where does your audience already look for help?
- Which channel suits your strengths (writing, video, speaking)?
- Do you have more time or more budget?
- Pick one long-term (compounding) channel and one short-term (fast feedback) channel.
FAQ
What's the fastest way to get funnel traffic?
Paid ads and existing audiences (your email list, partners) are usually fastest. Make sure the funnel converts warm traffic before scaling paid spend.