Summary of I’ve Sent Over 1,500 Newsletters — Here’s What I Wish I Knew When I Started

  • medium.com
  • Article
  • Summarized Content

    Why "Being Consistent" Isn't the Key to a Successful Newsletter Business

    This article argues that while consistency in your newsletter is important, it's not the most critical factor for a successful business. Instead, the author emphasizes the importance of creating high-quality content that genuinely excites you and your audience. They highlight that a newsletter business reflects your passion and dedication, and a forced, unenthusiastic effort will be easily detected by readers.

    • The author shares their own experience with creating a newsletter they "hated" simply because they felt pressured to be consistent. This ultimately led to a lackluster product and minimal success.
    • The article emphasizes that in today's digital landscape, "delivering value" alone is no longer enough. You need to connect with your audience on a human level and build genuine relationships.

    The Three Proven Ways to Grow Your Newsletter Business

    The article outlines three key strategies for growing your newsletter business:

    • Views on Content: Your content is the foundation of your newsletter. Increased visibility of your content will drive more potential subscribers to your email list.
    • Collaborations and Referrals: Building relationships with other creators in your niche allows you to leverage their audiences and gain valuable referrals. This strategy taps into established trust and accelerates list growth.
    • Paid Subscribers: Investing in paid subscriber acquisition can be an effective way to quickly grow your email list. Targeting strategies are crucial for maximizing return on investment and ensuring new subscribers are genuinely interested in your content.

    Stop Chasing Vanity Metrics — Focus on Creating Value

    The article strongly advises against obsessing over vanity metrics such as subscriber count or open rates. These metrics, while helpful, don't necessarily translate into real business success. Instead, concentrate on creating high-quality content that builds genuine relationships with your audience.

    • A large subscriber base is meaningless if they don't engage with your content. Similarly, a high open rate doesn't guarantee engagement or conversions.
    • The author suggests focusing on building genuine connections with readers through your content. This leads to a more loyal and invested audience.
    • The author highlights the importance of individual subscriber feedback over generalized metrics. This provides valuable insights into how your content is resonating and allows for personalized adjustments.

    The Power of Conversational Writing in Newsletter Business

    To create a truly engaging newsletter, the author suggests adopting a conversational tone and writing as if you're talking to a friend. This fosters a sense of intimacy and authenticity that resonates with readers.

    • The author shares a strategy employed by Nathan Barry, founder of ConvertKit, which involves addressing individual questions from the audience as if writing to a friend. This approach encourages personalized and engaging content.
    • Writing with a conversational tone eliminates formality and allows your true voice to shine through, fostering a deeper connection with your audience.
    • The article emphasizes the importance of authenticity and sharing your genuine thoughts, insights, and stories to build a community that values your perspective.

    A Call to Action: Building a Successful Newsletter Business

    The author concludes by emphasizing their commitment to helping creators build successful newsletter businesses and shares a call to action: learn more about their services to help you share your story, build an audience, and generate income online.

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