How To Create Newsletter Content With Ease
Some of you might be thinking, "I already have a blog and social media outlets. Why do I need a newsletter?" I'm glad you asked! Here's a breakdown for you:
SOCIAL MEDIA = The tools to draw in new fans, generate interest, and start conversations. Best way to draw in new fans.
BLOG = The tool to inform your audience, provide insight, and develop trust.
NEWSLETTERS = Targeted way to build relationships & loyalty. This is your dedicated fan base. One step closer to a sale.
Think about it this way: if you were to give someone your personal email address to stay in touch with them, you would have a good reason to do so, correct? You don't hand that out to just anyone. You give your email address to individuals or companies that you trust, that you want to hear from, and who provide information that is relevant or important to you.
Your social media outlets and blog are priming the pump for fans to sign up for your newsletter.
We will cover the technical stuff in the next post, and start out by focusing on the the content. Here is a simple four step process to follow that will make creating your newsletter content easy as pie:
1) Create a topic outline
Think through topics, issues, helpful information, etc., that you can write about that focuses on the reader. This will help you flush out your ideas so you aren't searching and scrambling for topics to write about.
Maybe you could share more insight into your characters, talk about what inspired you to write about this topic, share your approach to writing, how you got started writing, etc. Keep the article to about 500-600 words. But remember, your newsletter should focus on the readers - not you.
2) Create a schedule
If you are just starting off, send out your newsletter at least once a month. Like your blog, consistency is key! Determine what day you want to issue your blog and block time in your schedule to write your newsletter and when it will go out. Sticking to a schedule will not only help you save time but it will also help you in not feeling overwhelmed and scrambling at the last minute. You want to create a quality newsletter, not something tossed together. Create reminders in your calendar or make a note a week ahead of time to start working on your newsletter so it's ready on time.
3) Map it out
Figuring out the look and layout of your newsletter and keeping it consistent will not only help in furthering your brand, but it will make things so much easier. There are a few elements that should be included in your newsletter:
- main article/topic
- schedule (if you are speaking, signing, teaching a workshop, etc.)
- special offers for subscribers (discounts, things of value)
- where they can purchase your books/products
- contact information
When you have a map you know where to go. Same goes with a newsletter. When you know where things go and what will automatically be included, it makes it so much easier to pop the needed information where it should go.
4) Focus on value
Always keep in mind the need to create value within the content you are providing for your readers. What can you give them? What can you provide? When they find value in what you provide, they will keep coming back for more. And if you give such great value to the free information you provide, just imagine what you provide for your paid materials! Don't underestimate quality and value...it's key!
When you plan ahead, get your system in place, and get a few newsletters under your belt, before you know it, you will be flooded with new dedicated fans. You just have to make that first step and get started!
TWEETABLES:
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QUESTION: What topics do you cover in your newsletter? What have you found to help you build your newsletter? We'd love to hear! Leave a comment below...