Gated Content: What It Is, Why It Works, and How to Use It

Discover how to leverage gated content to generate leads, segment your audience, and provide value that converts.

What is Gated Content?

Gated content refers to online materials that require users to submit information (typically via a form) before they can access it. This exchange of information creates a value-based transaction between you and your audience.

Popular Types of Gated Content

Different formats serve different purposes. Choose the right type based on your audience's needs and your marketing goals.

Ebooks

Comprehensive guides on specific topics that showcase your expertise and provide in-depth knowledge to your audience.

Whitepapers

Research-backed, authoritative reports that address industry challenges and present solutions based on data and analysis.

Webinars

Live or recorded video presentations that offer interactive learning experiences and direct access to industry experts.

Templates & Tools

Ready-to-use resources that help your audience solve specific problems and implement strategies with minimal effort.

Research Reports

Original data and insights from surveys, interviews, or experiments that provide unique industry perspectives.

Courses or Email Series

Sequential content delivered over time that builds knowledge progressively and keeps your audience engaged.

Why Gated Content Works

Gated content creates a value exchange that benefits both your business and your audience.

Lead Generation

Collect valuable contact information from prospects who are genuinely interested in what you offer, creating qualified leads for your sales funnel.

Segmentation

Learn what interests different audience segments based on which content they access, allowing for more targeted follow-up communications.

Higher Perceived Value

Content behind a gate is often perceived as more valuable, increasing its impact and the likelihood that users will engage with it thoroughly.

When to Gate vs. Ungate

Not all content should be gated. Strategic decisions about what to gate can maximize both lead generation and audience growth.

When to Gate

  • High-value, in-depth resources
  • Original research and proprietary data
  • Premium tools and templates
  • Content for bottom-of-funnel prospects
  • Educational resources showing your expertise

When to Ungate

  • Brand awareness content
  • Top-of-funnel educational materials
  • Content needed for SEO performance
  • News, updates, and announcements
  • Content promoting gated resources

Ready to Create Your Own Gated Content?