You know that rush when you see “Get 15% off your first order”?

Yeah, your customers feel it too — especially if they’re new and still on the fence.

First-time buyer discounts are one of the oldest tricks in ecommerce, but they still work like magic… when you use them correctly. In fact, according to a 2024 report from Shopify, 54% of new customers are more likely to convert when a personalized first-order discount is offered.

But there’s a catch. Offer too much, and you attract deal-chasers who never come back. Offer too little, and it’s just background noise.

This guide will walk you through exactly how to offer first-time buyer discounts in a way that builds trust, boosts conversions, and encourages repeat sales — all without eating into your margins.

Let’s dive into the only guide you’ll ever need to do it right.

1. Choose the Right Type of Discount

Offer a percentage-based discount (e.g., 10–20%) for lower-cost items.
Use flat-dollar discounts (e.g., $5 or $10 off) for higher-ticket items.
Consider free shipping as a powerful alternative incentive.
Use time-sensitive discounts to encourage fast action.

Want more ideas? Check out the 7 best discount strategies for online stores to find the perfect approach for your first-time buyers.

2. Require Email Signup Before Unlocking the Discount

Gate the discount behind a popup or embedded form.
Add subscribers to your email list automatically after signup.
Use tools like Klaviyo, Mailchimp, or Payhip’s built-in system.
Send a welcome email with the code, plus a reminder if unopened.

And remember: the way you distribute coupons matters just as much. Use these 10 best ways to distribute coupons effectively to maximize your first-time buyer conversions.

3. Create a Unique Discount Code for Tracking

Use custom codes like “WELCOME10” to avoid misuse.
Limit usage to once per customer.
Track which traffic source converts the most first-time buyers.
Rotate or expire codes to maintain freshness and urgency.

If you’re worried about discount misuse, don’t skip reading how to prevent coupon abuse — especially important when offering first-time deals.

4. Display the Discount Offer Site-Wide

Add a sticky bar at the top of your website promoting the offer.
Use exit-intent popups for visitors about to leave.
Highlight the offer on product pages and checkout.
Use consistent colors and CTA language across your store.

Sometimes, a well-placed site-wide sale using coupons can create a stronger incentive for first-time buyers and increase your overall conversion rates.

5. Use Urgency and Scarcity to Increase Conversions

Add expiration timers to the welcome discount email.
Use messaging like “Only valid for 24 hours” or “Ends this weekend.”
Combine with seasonal language for more relevance (e.g., “Spring Welcome Offer”).
Show how many people redeemed the offer recently to add FOMO.

Urgency is psychological — and understanding the psychology of discount pricing will help you craft more irresistible first-time offers.