How To Add Gated Content to Your WordPress Site

Gated content is a popular strategy businesses use to build email lists, generate leads, or even boost revenue. WordPress Gated content refers to content that is hidden behind a form or a paywall. Users can only access it after they provide some information like name, email, or payment details. 

This strategy works well for downloadable resources like eBooks, guides, checklists, webinars, or even premium blog posts. But the question is how to do it?

In this blog, we’ll discuss the process of adding gated content to your WordPress site. Also, to make it easier for you, our expert WordPress development services can help you easily integrate gated content and boost your site’s potential.

What is Gated Content?

Gated content is content that requires users to fill out a form, subscribe, or pay before they can access it. Unlike open content, which is accessible to all visitors, gated content helps you collect valuable information and build relationships with your audience. This information could be used for email marketing, nurturing leads, or even creating personalized content.

Types of Gated Content

Depending on your business goals, you can choose from several WordPress gated content types. The goal is to offer something valuable enough that visitors are willing to exchange their contact information, such as an email address, to access it. Popular types of gated content that you can use include:

1. eBooks and Guides

Offering detailed eBooks or guides on a specific topic is a great way to provide value and collect leads. These resources are educational and informative, making them highly attractive to users looking for in-depth information.

2. Webinars and Workshops

Live webinars or recorded workshops are interactive and engaging. Visitors must register with their email to attend or access the content afterward, making them excellent for direct audience interaction.

3. Whitepapers and Research Reports

Whitepapers provide valuable industry insights or research and are typically data-driven. These are ideal for B2B businesses looking to establish authority and attract decision-makers.

4. Templates, Checklists, and Toolkits

Offering practical resources like templates, checklists, or toolkits is effective because they provide immediate value. These types of content are easy to consume and useful for solving everyday problems.

5. Exclusive Blog Posts or Articles

Premium blog content can be gated to give visitors access to in-depth, specialized articles. This is ideal for building an engaged community of readers.

6. Email Courses

An email course delivers value over time through a series of educational emails. This keeps users engaged and allows you to nurture leads while offering useful information.

7. Quizzes and Assessments

Interactive quizzes and assessments that provide personalized results are a fun and engaging way to collect leads. Users exchange their info to get valuable insights tailored to them.

8. Case Studies

Case studies showcase real-life success stories, demonstrating your expertise. Gating these resources can attract potential clients looking for proof of your effectiveness.

Each type of gated content serves a different purpose, but all can help you generate leads, build authority, and engage your audience effectively.

How WordPress Gated Content is Beneficial

Using gated content on WordPress offers several key benefits for your business:

Lead Generation

Gated content helps you build an email list by exchanging valuable resources for users’ contact details, which can be used for email marketing and conversion.

Increased Engagement

Since users must take action to access gated content, they are more likely to be interested and engage deeply with your site.

Better Audience Insights

You gather valuable data (like emails) from users, helping you understand your audience and tailor your content and marketing strategies.

Establish Authority and Trust

By offering exclusive, high-quality content, you position yourself as an expert in your field, building trust with your audience.

Higher Conversion Rates

Gated content often leads to better conversion rates, as users are more likely to take action when they perceive the content as valuable.

Exclusive Content Builds Community

Offering exclusive content fosters a sense of community and loyalty among users, making them more likely to return.

Monetization Opportunities

Gated content can also be a revenue source by charging for premium content or offering memberships.

Gated content on WordPress helps you generate leads, boost engagement, build trust, and even create opportunities for monetization.By offering valuable, exclusive content, you can create a stronger connection with your audience.

Step-by-Step Guide to Adding Gated Content to Your WordPress Site

Now that you know what WordPress gated content is and why it’s important, let’s look at the steps for adding it to your WordPress site.

1. Choose Your Gated Content Type

The first step in setting up gated content on your WordPress site is to choose the type of content you want to offer. Based on your audience and goals, you can select one of the following popular options:

• eBooks or Guides: Offer a free, downloadable eBook or in-depth guide that provides value to your audience.
• Webinars: Host a live webinar and create a registration page where users sign up to attend.
• Exclusive Articles: Publish high-quality articles that are available only to subscribers or members.
• Templates or Checklists: Provide practical resources like templates, checklists, or toolkits that users can download.

Consider what would resonate most with your target audience. For instance, if you’re a business coach, offering a free eBook or checklist would be a great way to attract potential clients.

2. Install a Form Plugin to Collect Leads

To gate content, you’ll need to collect information from visitors in exchange for access. One of the easiest ways to do this on WordPress is by installing a plugin. Some popular form plugins include:

• OptinMonster: A lead-generation tool that allows you to create pop-up forms, floating bars, and more. It’s easy to set up and integrate with most email marketing tools.
• Thrive Leads: A premium WordPress plugin that helps you build high-converting opt-in forms. You can create popups, slide-ins, and other types of forms to gate content.
• WPForms: A simple and user-friendly plugin that allows you to create contact forms, lead generation forms, and more. WPForms has both a free and a paid version.

Once you’ve chosen a plugin, you can create forms that ask visitors for basic information (like their name and email address) before they can access your gated content. These forms can be placed on a landing page or pop-up.

If you can’t find a plugin that fulfils all your needs, you can opt for our custom WordPress plugin development services.

3. Create a Landing Page for Your Gated Content

A landing page is a dedicated page on your WordPress site where visitors can learn more about your gated content and enter their information to access it. For example, if you’re offering a free eBook, your landing page should explain what the eBook is about and highlight its value.

Here’s how to create a landing page:

• Choose a Landing Page Plugin: Many page builders like Elementor, Beaver Builder, or Divi offer pre-made templates for landing pages. These tools allow you to drag and drop elements, making it easy to design a page that suits your content.
• Write Compelling Copy: Your landing page should include clear, concise, and compelling text. Explain why the gated content is valuable and how it will help visitors solve a problem or achieve a goal.
• Include a Form: Add the form you created using your form plugin to collect the visitor’s name and email address. Make sure the form is prominently placed, ideally above the fold.
• Add a Call-to-Action (CTA): Use strong action words like “Download Now” or “Get Your Free Guide” to encourage visitors to take the next step.

4. Restrict Access to Your Gated Content

After setting up the landing page and form, the next step is to restrict access to your gated content. You can do this by using a membership plugin or a content protection plugin. These tools allow you to hide the content from visitors who haven’t filled out the form or subscribed.

Some popular plugins for restricting content include:

• MemberPress: A powerful membership plugin that lets you protect content, sell memberships, and manage access to premium content.
• Restrict Content Pro: A simple yet effective plugin for restricting access to certain parts of your site. You can lock down blog posts, pages, or entire categories.
• Simple Content Protection: If you just need basic content protection, this lightweight plugin is an easy way to add gated content to your site.

With these plugins, you can easily choose which pages or posts should be hidden from non-subscribers, and only allow access once someone fills out the form.

5. Set Up Your Email Automation

Once a user fills out the form and gains access to the gated content, it’s important to follow up with them. Setting up an email automation allows you to nurture the leads you collect and turn them into loyal followers or customers.

Here’s how to set up email automation:

• Choose an Email Marketing Service: Popular email marketing tools like Mailchimp, ConvertKit, ActiveCampaign, and AWeber can integrate with your form plugin. Once someone submits their details, they can be added to your email list.
• Create a Welcome Email: Send an automatic email to subscribers thanking them for their interest and providing the link to download or access the gated content.
• Nurture Your Leads: After sending the first email, continue engaging with your leads through a series of automated emails, offering them valuable content, discounts, or updates on new offers.

6. Promote Your Gated Content

Now that your gated content is live, it’s time to promote it to attract visitors. Here are a few ways to get the word out:

• Social Media: Share the link to your landing page on your social media platforms. Use catchy captions and images to grab attention.
• Email Newsletters: If you already have an email list, send out an announcement about the new gated content and encourage people to sign up.
• Paid Ads: Use paid ads on platforms like Google Ads, Facebook, or Instagram to drive traffic to your landing page.

Choosing the right type of gated content, using the appropriate plugins, and promoting your offer effectively will help you generate leads and engage your audience. Remember to continuously test and optimize your landing pages and forms to improve conversions and experience for your visitors.

WordPress Gated Content Best Practices

To make the most of your gated content, follow these best practices for a better user experience and higher conversions:

• Offer Valuable Content: Ensure your gated content addresses audience pain points or provides useful solutions. Whether it’s an eBook, checklist, or webinar, it should be something visitors will gladly exchange their details for.
• Keep Forms Simple: Limit form fields to essentials like name and email. The simpler the form, the higher the chances visitors will complete it.
• Create Clear CTAs: Use action-driven language like “Download Now” or “Get Instant Access.” Make your CTA prominent and easy to spot.
• Test and Optimize: Regularly test and refine your forms and landing pages. A/B testing helps improve conversion rates by finding the most effective combinations.
• Provide Immediate Access: Grant instant access to your gated content after form submission. This enhances user satisfaction and trust.
• Be Transparent: Clearly state what visitors will receive upon signing up, whether it’s a download, video access, or event registration. Transparency builds trust.
• Use a Mobile-Friendly Design: Ensure your content and forms are responsive on mobile devices for a smooth experience across all devices.
• Respect Privacy and Compliance: Protect user data and comply with privacy laws (e.g., GDPR, CCPA) by adding clear privacy policies and consent checkboxes.
• By following these best practices, your gated content on WordPress can effectively generate leads, build trust, and deliver valuable experiences.

FAQs on WordPress Gated Content

How do I decide which gated content format to use?

Choose a format based on your audience's needs. eBooks or guides suit those seeking in-depth info, while templates and checklists are perfect for actionable tools. Webinars work for live engagement, and exclusive articles are great for ongoing education.

Are there any alternatives to gated content?

Yes, alternatives include offering content upgrades (bonus material after engaging with a post) or progressive profiling (gathering info gradually over time).

How do I ensure users see value in my gated content?

Focus on addressing audience pain points and offering clear benefits. Use compelling descriptions and CTAs to show how your content solves their problems.

Summing Up WordPress Gated Content

Adding gated content to your WordPress site can be a great way to generate leads, build your email list, and grow your business. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can create a gated content strategy that delivers value to your audience.

Focus on providing real value that your visitors are willing to trade their contact details for. With the right strategy, you’ll be able to grow your audience and turn visitors into loyal customers.

Need help setting up gated content on your WordPress site? Hire our WordPress professionals today!