What are sales funnels?

Picture this: You’re at McDonald’s, ordering your favorite burger. The cashier smiles and asks, “Would you like fries and a drink with that?” It’s such a small question, but before you know it, your $5 burger becomes a $10 combo meal.

That’s not just good customer service—it’s a system. This simple upsell is part of a carefully designed process to increase the value of each customer’s purchase. It’s smart, efficient, and effective.

Now imagine using this same strategy online. Instead of fries and a drink, you’re offering upgrades like premium services, additional products, or exclusive add-ons. Step by step, you’re guiding your customers toward making a purchase and even increasing the size of that purchase.

This is the essence of a sales funnel. It’s more than a tool; it’s a system for converting prospects into buyers and maximizing the revenue from every customer. And it’s not just for big businesses—it’s something every entrepreneur and business owner can, and should, use to grow and scale.

Here’s how it works, and why it’s a game-changer for your business.

What Is an Online Sales Funnel?

A sales funnel is a series of steps designed to guide your prospects from first discovering your business to making a purchase—and beyond. Think of it as the online version of your best salesperson, leading customers through their journey one step at a time.

Here’s what the typical stages look like:

1. Awareness – Your potential customer learns about you, often through an ad, social media post, or search engine.

2. Interest – They check out what you offer and start considering if it’s the solution to their problem.

3. Decision – They’re convinced you’re the best choice and are ready to buy.

4. Purchase – They take action and become a paying customer.

Unlike websites, which often overwhelm visitors with too much information, funnels guide customers step-by-step. Each page focuses on a single goal, whether it’s capturing an email, making a sale, or offering an upsell.

The Power of Upsells: Lessons from McDonald’s

Think back to that moment at McDonald’s when you’re offered fries and a drink with your burger. It seems like a simple suggestion, but it’s actually a calculated move to enhance your experience and, at the same time, increase the value of your order.

Sales funnels work the same way, offering upsells and cross-sells to boost the value of every customer.

For example:

- A personal trainer might sell a workout plan and then offer one-on-one coaching as an upgrade.

- A landscaper could sell basic lawn care services and upsell seasonal maintenance packages.

These extra offers can double or triple the value of a single customer. And here’s the secret: The business that can spend the most to acquire a customer wins.

If your funnel increases your average customer value, you can afford to outspend competitors on ads and grow faster.

What Do You Know That Others Don’t?

The beauty of a sales funnel is that it’s unique to your business. It reflects your understanding of your customers—their needs, objections, and desires.

Ask yourself:

- What do my customers need most right now?

- What’s stopping them from buying?

- What extra products or services would make their experience even better?

This insider knowledge allows you to craft a funnel that feels personal, helpful, and irresistible.

How to Get Started

If you’re still relying on a website to make sales, it’s time to upgrade. Here’s how to build a basic funnel:

1. Start with a landing page - This is where your potential customer lands after clicking on your ad or link. Keep it simple and focused on one offer.

Pro Tip: Include a lead magnet, a free resource like a checklist, guide, or template, in exchange for their email. For example, “Get our free guide: 5 Steps to Building a Profitable Sales Funnel.” This not only provides immediate value but also builds your email list for future follow-ups.

2. Add a thank you page with an upsell - Once they take the first step, show them an additional offer to increase the value of the sale. This could be a discounted service, a premium product, or an exclusive add-on that complements your lead magnet.

3. Follow up - Use email automation to stay in touch with leads who don’t buy right away. Share valuable content, success stories, and timely offers to build trust and encourage them to take action later.

Even a simple funnel can make a big difference in how many sales you close and how much revenue you generate.

Take The First Step Today!

The businesses that use funnels properly don’t just compete—they dominate. The question is: are you ready to take that step?

Let’s work together to get you started. I’m offering a free 30-minute consultation where we’ll discuss your business goals, identify opportunities for a funnel, and outline the first steps to create one that drives results.

This is your chance to get clear on how to turn more prospects into customers and grow your revenue.

Click here https://ethos-digitalmarketing.com/contact-us to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward building a high-performing funnel for your business.