Exporting email addresses from WordPress comments can be useful for building an email list or doing retargeting campaigns. However, you need consent from users before contacting them. In this 2023 guide, we‘ll show you how to properly export and use commenters‘ email addresses.
Why Export Email Addresses from Comments?
There are a few reasons you may want to export email addresses:
- Build an email list – Commenters are already engaged with your content, making them good email subscribers.
- Run giveaways – Export emails from a giveaway post to pick contest winners.
- Retargeting ads – Upload emails to Facebook for retargeting campaigns.
However, you must get consent from users before emailing them.
Adding Opt-In Fields to Comment Form
The default WordPress comment form doesn‘t let users opt into emails. So you need to add custom fields to comply with privacy regulations like GDPR.
Here‘s an example opt-in checkbox:
When they comment, their opt-in response is saved as metadata. You can then export the emails only for those who consented.
How to Export Email Addresses from Comments
The easiest way to export comment emails is using the WP Comments Im-Ex plugin.
After installing, go to Comments » Comments Im-Ex.
1. Filter Comments
By default, the plugin will exports all comments. I recommend filtering to a date range or single post:
2. Select Email and Opt-In Columns
Make sure to select these columns:
- comment_author_email – The commenter‘s email address.
- comment_meta – Any meta data, like your opt-in checkbox value.
3. Export and Download CSV
Once your export is set up, click Export Comments. You‘ll get a CSV file to open in Excel or Google Sheets.
The file will have email addresses and any opt-in meta values:
You can then filter those who consented to being contacted.
Get More from Exported Comment Emails
Here are some ways to make the most of your exported emails:
- Add consenting users to your newsletter.
- Upload the list to Facebook for retargeting advertisements.
- Personal outreach to build your network.
I hope this up-to-date guide for 2023 helps you properly export email addresses from WordPress comments!
