The Most Overlooked Email in Your System

When people talk about improving email funnels, they usually focus on welcome sequences, lead magnets, or clever subject lines.

But there’s one email that often gets completely ignored – despite being one of the most important in your entire system.

The confirmation email.

If you’re using double opt-in – where someone needs to confirm their subscription before they’re officially added to your list – this is the very first message they see.

And yet most people never touch it.

The Default Confirmation Email Is… Not Great

You’ve probably seen it yourself:

‘Please confirm your subscription by clicking the link below.’

It’s cold and robotic, and that’s a missed opportunity.

This message is the first interaction someone has with your brand. They’ve just signed up for your freebie, course or newsletter – they’re interested and paying attention.

So why let that moment slip through your fingers?

Why This Email Matters More Than You Think

The confirmation email isn’t just a formality. It plays a huge role in:

• Deliverability – If they don’t confirm, you don’t get permission to email them.
• Momentum – They’ve just taken a small action. The goal is to keep them moving.
• First impressions – This sets the tone for every message that follows.

How to Fix It (Takes 5 Minutes)

Fortunately, improving this email is quick and easy – and the payoff can be big.

Here’s how to make it more engaging:

Make It Clear What’s Coming

Remind people why they signed up and what they’re about to receive. For example:

‘You’re moments away from accessing your free guide to writing emails that actually convert.

This helps reassure them that they’ve made the right decision – and nudges them to complete the action.

Reinforce the Benefit

Explain why confirming their email is worth it. Don’t just say ‘click the link’ – give them a reason:

‘Clicking the link below means you’ll get access straight away – no fluff, just value.’

You’re selling the next step, just like you would in any other marketing email.

Inject Your Voice

Use your brand tone. Add a touch of personality. A little warmth, humour or friendliness goes a long way.

Even something as simple as:

‘I hate boring emails as much as you do – that’s why I write mine to be actually useful (and occasionally funny). Ready to dive in?’

This makes the email feel like it came from a real person – not an automated system.

Small Change, Big Impact

This might seem like a tiny tweak in your overall email marketing setup – but it can make a huge difference in how many people actually confirm their subscription and follow through with your emails.

If someone doesn’t click that confirmation link, they never even reach your welcome sequence. So it pays to make sure that first email does its job.

Final Thought

If you’re using double opt-in, don’t let your confirmation email be the weak link in your funnel.

You’ve already done the hard work of getting someone to sign up. Make sure their very first impression reflects your brand, your value, and your voice.

It only takes five minutes to rewrite this email – but it could be the difference between a lost lead and a loyal subscriber.

Want help reviewing your entire sign-up flow?

I help coaches, creators and service businesses build email systems that actually work. Get in touch if you’d like help tightening up your funnel from the very first click.