Today, we’re delving into one of those techy website things that can seem super intimidating at first: connecting ConvertKit and WordPress. Embedding ConvertKit forms into WordPress sites is one of the most common tasks my clients need support with as they’re getting their new websites set up…and I know they’re not the only ones!
But getting ConverKit and WordPress to work together doesn’t have to be hard…and it’s essential if you want to start gathering leads from your potential clients. So, let’s break down the steps on how to connect ConverKit and WordPress!
What is ConvertKit?
If you’ve found your way to this post, then you probably already know what ConvertKit is. But in case you’re new to this whole email marketing thing, let’s cover the basics before we jump into the how-tos.
ConverKit is a full-featured email marketing platform that makes it easier to consistently connect with your audience in a more personalized way. It has a TON of features, from managing email marketing lists to automating sequences to segmenting your audience based on their interests.
Want to read more about ConvertKit? Read my comparison of ConvertKit and Flodesk to figure out the right email marketing software for you!
Why ConvertKit is great for small businesses
There are several email marketing platforms out there for small business owners – two of the most popular options are Flodesk and ConvertKit. Both are fabulous, but after testing them out in my business, I prefer ConvertKit’s features.
In fact, ConvertKit offers SO many features that it can be a bit overwhelming for some people in the beginning. But it’s not long until most people are ready to make use of advanced automations, segmenting, and A/B testing. And it’s easier to use those features when you’re ready if you use ConvertKit from day one!
Understanding embedded forms
The main way to turn website visitors into email subscribers (and, eventually, clients) is to embed a signup form from your email platform (in this case, ConvertKit) onto your website page (in this case, on WordPress).
The form itself can take many different forms, from a simple call-to-action to sign up for an email newsletter to offering an opt-in, discount code, or freebie in exchange for email information.
Connecting ConvertKit and WordPress creates a seamless pathway for visitors to join your email list and start getting to know your brand.
How ConvertKit and WordPress work together
Before you can use ConvertKit and WordPress together, it’s helpful to understand the complementary roles they play. ConvertKit is where you build forms and set up automations to deliver emails and email sequences to subscribers.
While WordPress holds the rest of your website content, it won’t contain those contact forms – or the automations attached to them – unless you connect WordPress and ConverKit.
Enter embedded forms. The embedding process is how you get a form you’ve created in ConvertKit to display on your WordPress website. And once you’ve embedded a form, anyone who fills out that form on your website will automatically be added to your email list in ConvertKit – and begin receiving your marketing emails.
How to Connect ConvertKit and WordPress
There are a few different ways to connect ConvertKit and WordPress, depending on your level of tech comfort. So, if you’re wondering how to connect ConvertKit and WordPress, I’ve got answers! Today, I’m going to focus on the two best ways (at least, in my opinion!) to get the job done: JavaScript embed codes or using the ConvertKit Plugin for WordPress.
The JavaScript code is my preferred way to connect ConvertKit and WordPress (more on that in a minute!) But if you want an easier method that allows you to work around code entirely, then the plugin option is for you!
Step One: Create a ConvertKit account and make a form
First things first: if you don’t already have a ConvertKit account, you’ll need one! Sign up for an account now, or log in to your existing account. Once there, you can create an embed form, add emails, and set up automations according to your preferences. Then, it’s time to embed the form into your website!
Always create a site backup!
Before you dive into the nitty-gritty details of connecting ConvertKit and WordPress, backup your site!
Performing a site backup is one of the most important steps of making any major changes to your site. Since you’re going to be installing new code and features, backing up your site right before you do so is a fabulous insurance policy. That way, if anything goes sideways on your site during the process, you’re protected – all you will need to do to restore your site to its former state is restore your WordPress site from a backup.
Connecting ConvertKit and WordPress with JavaScript code
Don’t worry – you won’t have to write any of the code! ConvertKit does everything for you; you just have to copy and paste the code onto your WordPress site.
This is the official method that ConvertKit recommends, and it’s also how I tell my clients to set up ConvertKit on their new website. Why?
There are a few reasons:
- Any changes you make to forms in ConvertKit will automatically show up on your WordPress website.
- CovertKit specifically created this code to work in the best possible way with WordPress websites, so you know it’s solid code that will interact well with the rest of your site.
- If you use code directly from ConvertKit, that means fewer conflicts with other elements of your site and faster loading times!
Important techy detail! This is technically a JavaScript embed…but the code is formatted in HTML. The reason that’s important is because it means the code will need to be inserted into a custom HTML block on WordPress. (Don’t worry, I’ll show you how!)
Step-by-step how to for connecting ConvertKit and WordPress
- Once you’ve created a form in ConvertKit, click Publish at the top of the page.
2. A window will pop up with embed options using different types of code. Choose JavaScript from the tabs along the top.
3. Copy the code. Now you’re ready to paste it into WordPress!
4. Log in to your WordPress account. In your page editor, create a new custom HTML block (if you’re using Elementor) or a new HTML module (if you’re using Beaver Builder) or a code block.
5. Paste in the code you’ve just copied from ConvertKit.
6. Click Preview to see your form appear in the block and then publish once you are ready to go live!
Option Two: The ConvertKit plugin
If you’re totally intimidated by the thought of fiddling with your website code, you can work around it with the ConvertKit plugin for WordPress. Once the plugin is installed, you can get a shortened code snippet to connect ConvertKit and WordPress.
Important web designer note! This isn’t the method I typically use. While it’s much simpler and plugins are fabulous, it’s important to be mindful of plugin usage – too many can slow down your site!
If this is the way you want to go about adding ConvertKit forms to your site, there’s a fantastic walkthrough of adding the plugin on ConvertKit’s site. It will walk you through getting the plugin installed, activated, and set up for linking ConvertKit and WordPress.
Connecting ConvertKit and WordPress?
You’ve got this! If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by the tech aspects of how to connect ConvertKit and WordPress, fear not. Even though it involves code, the process is actually very simple.
You can do it! Whether you choose the direct code embed method or opt for the plugin, you’re just a few steps away from getting your website ready to collect email info from visitors.
Hopefully my step-by-step guide on how to connect ConvertKit and WordPress will have you integrating ConvertKit forms into your site like a pro!
Need a little more than just email marketing integration?
If you’re thinking of giving your website a refresh, book a call to chat about leveling up your site! We can talk about making your site beautiful AND search-worthy (the perfect cocktail for your business growth! 🥂)