
Free trials have become one of the most effective ways to encourage people to sign up for memberships. Companies across different industries have been using them to build trust and increase conversions, and the results speak for themselves. Studies show that free trials can boost conversions by as much as 50%. When people get a chance to experience something risk-free, they’re far more likely to commit.
Think about how streaming platforms, online newspapers, and software companies have successfully used free trials to win over long-term customers. They don’t just tell users why their product is worth paying for—they let them see for themselves. The Free Trial Period plugin makes this process even smoother by allowing you to set up a trial period for any paid membership plan. You can decide how many trial days to offer and whether users need to enter credit card details upfront or only after their trial ends.
If you’re looking for a simple way to attract more signups and turn free users into paying members, this is one of the best tools to make it happen. Let’s go over exactly how it works and why free trials should be part of your strategy.
How does the Free Trial Period plugin help increase membership signups?
One of the biggest hurdles for potential members is the fear of making a financial commitment before knowing if a service is worth it. A free trial takes away that hesitation. It removes the pressure, allowing users to explore everything you offer before making a decision.
- Encourages signups: More people are willing to try something if there’s no immediate cost.
- Shows real value: Instead of just reading about the benefits, users experience them firsthand.
- Leads to more conversions: Once users see what they’re getting, many choose to stay subscribed.
With the Free Trial Period plugin, this entire process is automated. New users sign up, enjoy their trial, and smoothly transition into a paid membership without extra effort on your part.
What features make the Free Trial Period plugin so useful?
Every business has different needs, and flexibility is key when offering free trials. This plugin gives you full control over how you structure them.
- Custom trial lengths: Choose how many days each membership plan includes for free.
- Clear trial details: Information about the trial is automatically displayed on the checkout page.
- Credit card requirement options: Decide whether users must enter payment details at signup.
- Automatic billing: If a credit card is required, users are charged when their trial ends.
- No unwanted charges: Users can cancel before the trial ends without being billed.
With these features, you can offer a seamless trial experience while increasing the likelihood that users stick around.
Should you require a credit card upfront for a free trial?
This is one of the biggest decisions when setting up a trial. Both options come with advantages, and it ultimately depends on what works best for your membership model.
Benefits of requiring a credit card at signup:
- Better retention: Users who enter payment details upfront are more likely to continue as paying members.
- Reduces trial abuse: Prevents users from creating multiple trial accounts with different emails.
- Automatic payments: Users don’t need to take extra steps to continue their membership.
Benefits of allowing a trial without a credit card:
- More people sign up: Without a payment barrier, more users are willing to try the service.
- Less hesitation: Users don’t have to worry about being charged unexpectedly.
- Stronger trust: People feel more comfortable knowing they won’t have to enter payment details upfront.
Both approaches work, but it’s worth testing to see which one brings in more paying members over time.
How can you turn free trial users into paying members?
Offering a free trial is just the beginning. To make sure trial users stick around, you need a plan to keep them engaged and motivated to upgrade.
1. Highlight the benefits of upgrading
Make sure users understand what they gain by becoming a paid member. Show them exclusive features, premium content, or added perks that make the membership worth it.
2. Guide users through the platform
A strong onboarding experience helps trial users see the full value of what’s available. Walk them through key features, send welcome emails, and provide tips on how to get the most out of their membership.
3. Send reminders before the trial ends
Users might forget when their trial expires. Sending a reminder email keeps them informed and gives you a chance to encourage them to continue their subscription.
4. Offer a discount or bonus for early upgrades
Sometimes a small incentive can make a big difference. Offering a discount or bonus feature to those who upgrade before their trial ends can push them to commit.
5. Make canceling easy (but remind them what they’ll miss)
Let users cancel their trial without frustration, but remind them of what they’ll lose if they do. A well-placed message about premium features can encourage them to stay.
What challenges come with offering free trials?
While free trials are a great way to bring in new members, there are a few common challenges. Knowing how to handle them ensures your trial system works effectively.
- Trial abuse: Some users might try to create multiple free accounts. Requiring an email verification or credit card can help prevent this.
- Low engagement: If trial users don’t explore the platform, they won’t see the value. A strong onboarding process keeps them engaged.
- Drop-offs after the trial ends: Some users may cancel before being charged. Sending reminder emails and highlighting premium benefits can help retain them.
By addressing these challenges, you can make sure your free trial strategy leads to more long-term members.
Start turning trial users into loyal members today
Offering a free trial is one of the easiest ways to get more people to sign up and experience everything your membership has to offer. By removing the upfront cost, you’re giving potential members the confidence to try it out – and when they see the value, many will stick around.
- Free trials make it easier for users to sign up without commitment.
- The Free Trial Period plugin lets you control trial length, display trial details, and manage billing settings.
- Deciding whether to require a credit card upfront can impact conversions.
- Engaging trial users with emails, onboarding, and incentives improves retention.
- Addressing common challenges like trial abuse and low engagement keeps trials effective.
More members mean more revenue and long-term growth. Get started now and set up your own free trial with 7-Day Free Trial today!