Keeping In Touch: Your Email Newsletter

Your email subscribers are the one list of followers you have that isn’t reliant on algorithms or changing trends. You can ultimately be yourself and stay in touch with your people, as often as you’d like. One good way to do so is a consistent newsletter. Crafting an engaging email newsletter requires careful planning and creativity, and because that can sometimes be overwhelming, I have created this guide that will walk you through the process of creating a compelling newsletter, including how to structure different sections, choose an enticing subject line, and write a personal piece to your subscribers.

Structuring Different Sections of Your Newsletter

A well-structured newsletter is essential for keeping your readers engaged. Here are some key sections to consider:

a. Header

The header is the first thing your readers will see. It typically includes your logo, the name of the newsletter, maybe a date. A clean and visually appealing header sets the tone for the rest of the email. This should be cohesive to your entire branding and truly extend that your newsletter is just a piece of your business.?

b. Introduction

The introduction should be a brief, warm welcome to your readers. This section sets the stage for the content to come. I have seen where some is a general overview of the weekly events and happenings, to mine which is thoughtful in nature.?

c. Featured Content

This is the main section of your newsletter. It can include blog posts, articles, news updates, or any other valuable content you want to share with your readers. This is one space where you should have a defined plan for your content. You can regularly share blogs or podcasts, perhaps a recent read you’ve enjoyed, a quote or even a product you love.?

d. Tips and Tricks

Provide your readers with practical tips and tricks related to your niche. Add value to the real-estate you take up in their inbox. To get the open rates you want to see, you have to provide your readers with an enticing reason to open the email.?

e. Personalization

Personalization helps to humanize your brand. Share a story, an experience, or a behind-the-scenes look at your business. This will help build a connection with your audience and makes sure that people see the person or people behind your business.?

f. Call to Action (CTA)

Every newsletter should have a clear call to action. Whether it's encouraging readers to visit your website, check out a new product, or follow you on social media, make sure your CTA stands out. I like to use the PS section or the introduction section to call people to take action on either checking out a brand audit or my new course coming soon.?

g. Footer

The footer typically includes contact information, social media links, and an unsubscribe option. It's important to make it easy for readers to manage their subscription preferences.

Choosing Your Subject Line

The subject line is arguably the most important part of your newsletter. It's the first thing your subscribers see, and it determines whether they will open your email. Here are some tips for crafting an effective subject line:

Keep It Short and Sweet

A subject line should be concise and to the point. Aim for 5-7 words or 40-50 characters. This ensures that your subject line is fully visible on most email clients and mobile devices.

Apply It To The Content

Make sure it is applying to the content on the inside, you want something with a hook that will grab attention but it needs to apply to what’s inside. It will be very disappointing to anyone who expects one thing and gets another.?

Personalize It

Personalizing your subject line with the recipient's name or other relevant information can make your email feel more tailored and engaging. For example, "John, Check Out Our Latest Updates" feels more personal than a generic subject line.

Use Action-Oriented Language

Action-oriented language encourages readers to take a specific action. Words like "Discover," "Explore," "Learn," or "Get" can make your subject line more compelling.

A/B Test Different Subject Lines

A/B testing allows you to experiment with different subject lines to see which one performs better. Test variations to learn what resonates most with your audience.

Imbibing Personality for Subscribers

Adding a personal touch to your newsletter helps to build a stronger connection with your readers. Here are some tips for writing a compelling personal newsletter:

Be Authentic

Authenticity is key when writing a personal piece. Share your genuine thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Your readers will appreciate your honesty and transparency.

Tell a Story

Stories are a powerful way to engage your audience. Share a personal story that is relevant to your newsletter's theme or your business. It could be an anecdote about a recent event, a challenge you've overcome, or a milestone you've achieved.

Keep It Relevant

While personal pieces are about sharing your own experiences, make sure they are still relevant to your readers. Relate your story to your audience's interests or the content of your newsletter.

Use a Conversational Tone

Write as if you are speaking directly to your reader. A conversational tone makes your writing more relatable and engaging. Avoid overly formal language and jargon. You can even use a technique of writing to someone you know, (friend, mother, yourself) to truly hit home.?

Include Visuals

Adding images or videos can enhance your personal piece. Visuals can help illustrate your story and make your newsletter more visually appealing, plus a picture is worth a thousand words.?

End with a Question or Prompt

Encourage interaction by ending your personal piece with a question or prompt. Ask your readers to share their own experiences or thoughts on the topic. This can help foster a sense of community and engagement.

Your newsletter should be something your subscribers look forward to, however often you want to send it. By structuring your newsletter with different sections, crafting an enticing subject line, and adding a personal touch, you can create an engaging and effective communication tool. Remember to keep your audience in mind, keep it consistent and don't be afraid to experiment and iterate on your approach. With these tips, you'll be well on your way to creating a newsletter that your subscribers look forward to reading.