start an email newsletter - workshop
TRANSCRIPT
Why start an email newsletter?
For You:● Build relationships with readers● Earn permission to contact readersFor Your Reader● Reminder to check out a blog they love● Chance to engage with you 1-to-1● Exclusive discounts, updates, + information
The “Newsletter” Misnomer
Your newsletter does NOT have to:● share news● be decked out with graphics + fancy design● generate direct revenue● (insert: anything else complicated)
Tips for Your Email Newsletter
● Know your goals.● Offer an incentive to join.● Keep it simple.● Plan and write ahead.● Don’t be afraid to make changes.● Write for the reader, and be personal.● If you make promises, stick to them.
1. State Your Goals
You might want to . . .● Expand the conversation with blog readers● Increase blog traffic● Sell books or other products/services● Promote your events● Gather email addresses for future promotion
Exercise #1Take a minute to jot down some of the goals for your blog/career, and how your newsletter can help you achieve those.
2. Pick a Direction
● Occasional news● E-course● How-to or Informational Articles● Blog Digest or Full Posts● Resources
Exercise #2
Take a minute to evaluate the pros and cons of each type of newsletter for your goals and audience.
3. Set Your Schedule
- When and how often will you send an email?- Email Newsletter Planning form:
- http://writersbucketlist.com/resources
Exercise #3
Brainstorm your editorial calendar:● What topics could you write about?● What schedule best meets your goals?
4. Choose a Service
Common Email Management Services:● AWeber: http://aweber.com ● MailChimp: http://mailchimp.com ● TinyLetter: http://tinyletter.com ● Constant Contact: http://constantcontact.
com
Examples of Opt-in Incentives
● Ebook, Manifesto, Report● Educational series of emails or blog posts● The content! – Exclusive articles or
discounts
Exercise #3
What kinds of incentives would complement your blog, attract subscribers, and help you meet your goals?Consider:● What have your readers been asking for?● What do others in your space offer (or not)?● Demographics/Needs of your readers
6. Promote the Sign-Up to Readers
● Link/form in blog’s sidebar● Page at your blog with more info● Promote via social media● Guest Posts!!
7. Engage with Readers
● Stick to your promised schedule● Include prompts for readers to follow up● Pose questions to spark conversation● (Include your P.S.)● Write an intriguing subject line● Use compelling calls-to-action