LeadMagnetGeniusPrimary purpose: Host the actual lead magnet file (if it’s something like a PDF, video, etc.) and deliver it reliably. Sometimes your email tool will host small files for you, but other times you might need separate hosting.
Google Drive / Dropbox: Simple and effective. You can upload your PDF or other file to a cloud drive and set it to shareable link (view-only). Then use that link in your delivery email or thank-you page. As one marketing expert mentioned, using Google Drive or Dropbox can be a “low-lift solution” to get the file to the person fast, with no extra steps. Just be sure to set proper sharing (e.g., anyone with link can view). Why it’s great: Free (within storage limits), and easy to update the file if needed – you can replace the file in the same link if you have a correction. Not fancy, but works.
Amazon S3 (with a link shortener): If you want a more robust hosting (say your magnet is a large video or you expect thousands of downloads), Amazon S3 is very cheap cloud storage. You’d upload your file and make it publicly accessible or use a secure link. You might use a pretty link (like bit.ly or a custom domain redirect) in your emails to mask the ugly S3 link. Why it’s great: Extremely scalable – no matter how much traffic, Amazon can handle it. Cost is pennies per GB of download. However, it’s more technical to set up than Dropbox/Drive.
Lead Magnet Delivery via Email Attachments: Some email services (like ConvertKit, Mailchimp) let you attach a file to the welcome email or host it for you. ConvertKit for example allows a single file upload to each form/landing page as the incentive – so when someone signs up, ConvertKit sends the email with that file attached or linked. This is convenient, but note that attachments can sometimes get flagged by email providers (or may not work well on every device). Often, a link is preferable to ensure deliverability. Why it’s great: It’s built-in and straightforward – no extra platforms needed. If the file is small (under a few MB), this is fine.
Content Upgrade Plugins (for WordPress): If you’re delivering different lead magnets per blog post (content upgrades), a plugin like Bloom or Thrive Leads can handle showing a download link after sign-up directly on the page. Some tools offer a “locked content” feature: readers enter email in-page and then immediately the content appears without going to email. These still usually email it as well. It’s a more seamless experience for the user to get it instantly on the site. Why it’s great: Instant gratification. Just ensure you still have their correct email (some savvy users might enter fake emails just to unlock – you can mitigate by emailing the full version, etc.).
In all cases, test the delivery method yourself: sign up as a new user and see that you can access the file on various devices (phone, desktop). Quick access is key – studies show if there’s a delay or too many hoops to get the magnet, users lose interest.