DAY 28 – Funnel-Based Emails: Why I Removed All Links

I was setting up an email campaign today for a new client who just registered their domain.

New website, new email address, everything fresh.

That got me thinking about deliverability.

New domains often trigger filters, and links make it worse.

So I asked myself: what if I remove all the links, even in the signature, and make the funnel completely reply-based?

Let's unpack this.

What I Mean by “Link-Free Funnel Emails”

It’s simple: no clickable links at all.

Just plain text mentions like “virtualfavour.co.uk” and a CTA that says, “Just reply” instead of “Click here.”

Potential Benefits

1. Better Deliverability

Every link, especially tracked or shortened ones, increases spam suspicion.

A brand-new domain has no reputation, so even one link can send your email to spam.

No links make your email look more human, which filters prefer.

2. Builds More Trust

People are cautious with links.

A “just reply” CTA feels personal and safe — like a real conversation.

If they’re curious, they can still type your website address into Google.

3. Higher Reply Rates

When your CTA says, “Just reply with A, B, or C,” it feels natural and easy.

Replies are stronger engagement signals than clicks, which also helps deliverability.

4. No Tracking Flags

No link tracking or UTM parameters means fewer technical triggers for spam filters.

Potential Drawbacks

1. Harder to Track Conversions

You won’t see who clicked or visited your site.

You’ll rely on replies and manual updates.

2. Lower Website Visits

Some people won’t bother typing your website into their browser.

3. Less Automation

If your funnel depends on “click to book” or “click to learn more,” you’ll need more manual follow-up.

Example

Here’s a simple version you can try:

“If this sounds relevant, just reply with A, B, or C — no need to click anything.”

“You can find me at virtualfavour.co.uk (just type it in your browser if you’re curious).”

You might ask, what if my main CTA is a call, how can they book it?

Remember, this approach is for new domains.

Instead of sending your Calendly link, just ask: “Shall I send you my booking link?”

It’s unlikely someone will book right away if they don’t know you yet, and this keeps your deliverability clean.

Removing links, especially when using a new domain, really helps with deliverability and trust.

Once your domain builds a good reputation and gets consistent engagement, you can safely reintroduce one clean link later for tracking or scale.

Have you ever tried sending a link-free email?

What were your results?