If you are looking to create valuable content for your email list, one option is to create a free report you give to subscribers. In this post, I want to share the resources I used to create my report, Small Tweaks, Big Changes (get it free here if you haven’t already).

Resources I Used to Create and Distribute My Report

1. My Website

First and foremost, I host my website and files on my WordPress website that I host with InMotion Hosting. Having a website is a key factor to giving away a free report. So make sure you start there.

2. An Email List Provider

For my email list, I use TrafficWave. Having an email list provider or list management company is a huge must as it helps you stay compliant with the CAN-SPAM Act, and takes care of all the hard stuff for you. It’s pretty much a set it up and forget it thing until you want to add another email. I share the process of setting up a page on my site to sign up and download the report here.

3. A Word Processor

The report itself was written and saved as a PDF in Microsoft Word.

NOTE: I did not use any special tools to upload the file to my website. This means it can be shared online by passing the download link, but I’m trusting most people won’t do that. If you are concerned, there are plugins and resources available to make your file more secure.

Resources I Used to Create the Cover

The cover of my free report was something I created in PhotoShop with a stock photo I purchased from Adobe Stock. I did use eCover Authority to create the 3D version (I LOVE eCover Authority).

So again, those three resources are:

• Adobe Stock
• PhotoShop
• eCover Authority

You don’t have to use all of those, but it definitely gives it a nice touch. You may also be able to get a good 3D cover on Fiverr.

Conclusion

That’s pretty much it. Creating your own free report is not hard. The hardest part is coming up with a quality idea and fleshing it out. Once you have that done, making it available is pretty simple.

I’d love to hear what you are offering to your list, and which resources you’ve used. Comment below and let us know!