Overview: Learn how to create members-only content in WordPress with this step-by-step guide.  

Are you looking to add members-only content to your website or blog? Do you want to provide exclusive content to your most loyal (or financially supportive) fans and members?

Before we proceed, let’s clarify what we mean by “members-only content”. Essentially, members-only content is any content you create that’s hidden from the general public and can only be accessed by members who have signed up or paid for special access to your website. This could include anything from exclusive blog posts to bonus podcast episodes, from premium videos to downloadable resources.

So how do you go about creating members-only content in WordPress? It’s actually easier than you might think! Here are the steps you’ll need to follow: 

Step 1: Install a Membership Plugin 

The first thing you’ll need to do is install a membership plugin. There are plenty of great options out there, such as MemberPress, Paid Memberships Pro, and Restrict Content Pro. These plugins will allow you to create membership levels, restrict access to certain content, and manage payments and subscriptions.

>> Related Reading: 5 Best WordPress Membership Plugins (Compared) – 2023   

Step 2: Create Membership Levels 

Once you’ve installed your membership plugin, it’s time to create your membership levels.

Think about what kind of content you want to provide and how much you want to charge for access. Also consider how much your audience will be willing to pay for each tier of membership you’re planning to offer.

>> Related Reading: Ultimate guide to creating a WordPress membership site 

Step 3: Restrict Access to Content 

Now that you’ve created your membership levels, it’s time to start restricting access to your content. With your membership plugin, you can choose which content is available to each membership level.

For example, you could make all of your blog posts available to your basic members, but only allow your premium members to access your premium videos and downloadable resources. Your plugin will allow to designate which membership level will have access to each specific piece of content. 

Step 4: Create a Registration & Login Page 

In order for your members to access your exclusive content, they’ll need to register and log in to your website. To make this process as easy as possible, you’ll want to create a registration and login page.

Most membership plugins will provide you with templates for these pages, so you don’t need to be a coding expert to get it done. 

Step 5: Integrate Payment Gateway (optional) 

If you want to create a paid membership program, you need to initiate a way to receive payment with your membership plugin. A payment gateway will allow you to accept payments from your users.

Most membership plugins come with built-in payment gateway integrations, but you can also use third-party payment gateway plugins. Some of the most popular payment gateways are PayPal, Stripe, and Authorize.net. 

Step 6: Promote Your Exclusive Content

Now that you’ve created your members-only content, it’s time to let your audience know about it! You might want to create a landing page that explains the benefits of becoming a member and provides a sneak peek of your exclusive content.

If you have a mailing list, we also recommend creating an email newsletter that highlights your latest exclusive content and encourages your subscribers to become members. Just don’t overdo it — if you send out too many emails pressuring readers to become members, they might start reaching for the delete button instead of reading!

>> Related Reading: 15 Ways to Promote a Membership Site

And there you have it! By following these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating exclusive content that will keep your members coming back for more.

But wait, there’s more! Here are a few bonus tips to help you take your members-only content to the next level:

Make your content truly exclusive: Don’t just recycle content that you’ve already published on your blog or social media. Your members should feel like they’re getting something truly special that they can’t find anyplace else.

Engage with your members: Your members are your most loyal fans, so don’t be afraid to ask them for feedback or suggestions. You could even allow members to comment on your content, or create a members-only forum or chat room where members can connect with each other and share their thoughts.

Keep your content fresh: Don’t let your members get bored by only providing them with the same types of content over and over again. Mix things up by providing a variety of content formats, such as videos, podcasts, and webinars. 

In Summary 

Creating members-only content in WordPress is a great way to provide extra value to your loyal followers and members. With the help of a membership plugin, you can easily create membership levels, restrict access to certain content, and manage payments and subscriptions.

Remember to make your content truly exclusive, engage with your members, and keep your content fresh to keep them coming back for more. Now, go forth and create some amazing members-only content!

If you need assistance or advice on installing membership plugins, updating your website or blog, or anything else, please feel free to contact MyUnlimitedWP. We’d love to help you take your website game to the next level!