Start a Newsletter in 15 Minutes
Do you know the adage, “a stich in time saves nine”? It applies to creating an email list and launching a newsletter
Don’t be deceived into thinking that your customers ignore or don’t value information from you. There are key principles to quality newsletter content, but first we need to set-up a simple system to give your newsletter life in as little as 15 minutes.
Go ahead, brew yourself another cup of coffee. There are 3 keys to get started.
#1 – Choose a Service
There are a plethora of services out there to help create your newsletter and manage your email list. From simple solutions such as Flodesk and Mailchimp to more robust options like Hubspot and Infusionsoft.
Don’t waste your time agonizing over features, find the solution that seems to be the best solution for you right now. You can always upgrade to a fancier service as your list grows. And with a little TLC, it will!
If you are a small business with an eagle eye on your bottom line right now, Mailchimp has a free version for up to 2,000 contacts. There is no excuse for not starting your email list right now.
#2 – Get the Word Out
Not only will a quality provider help you manage your email list effectively, it will help you stay compliant with the legal aspects of building and maintaining an email list. While we are not attorneys and do not provide any legal advice… don’t even think about adding anybody to your email list without their permission! Instead, provide easy opt-in opportunities.
There are over 3.9 billion active email addresses around the world. You need some of them. Imagine your website homepages as a powerful tool to build your audience. It should be clear and easy for customers to sign-up and receive your newsletter. Take a few minutes to update your website with a pop-up or opt-in button. Don’t forget to include the option on every page of your website.
There are other options to build your list. Do you have an opt-in request when a customer makes an order? Have you shared that you are launching a newsletter with exclusive content to your followers on social media?
#3 – Serve Your Subscribers
Undoubtedly, some business owners are shy about starting newsletters because they don’t want to come across as spammy or intrusive. Don’t get caught in that failure mindset. Instead, shift your focus and view your newsletter as a service to your customers and build a relationship. Yes, there is a place for including new products or sales in your newsletter. However, you will stand out by enlarging the scope of your newsletter content to provide valuable information that will benefit their life or business. A quality newsletter will help a customer connect to your company on a human level.
Be Remembered
Starting a newsletter is an important step for every growing business. Creating quality content and consistently building your email list is another matter. Yes, you absolutely have the skills needed to produce a quality newsletter. But the question is, do you want to?
If you feel like you need a newsletter lifeline, set up a call or drop us a line.
One of our email marketing experts would love to work with you to not only be seen, but help you be remembered.