3 Steps to Writing a Superb Newsletter (and an AI prompt to help)
Newsletters have always been an excellent format for direct communication with audiences for me and my clients. Yet, building a newsletter that captures and retains reader interest can be a challenge, especially when the goal is to stand out in a crowded inbox. Recently on my podcast, "The 4am Report" I had the pleasure of chatting with Gillian Kuriyan, Director of Mommy Connections Midtown Toronto - a thriving hub dedicated to supporting parents of young children. For Gillian, email newsletters are a key resource. She shared her 3 step strategy to top-notch newsletters that get read to the very end!
I've outlined the three key steps to elevate your newsletter game below, along with the actions you can take to ensure your missive remains anything but boring!
Step 1: Infuse Personality into your Content
Gillian's approach to newsletters emphasizes the power of personal touch. Your newsletter should feel like a note from a friend rather than a corporate announcement. This connection fosters a stronger relationship with your audience.
Key UNboring Actions:
Be Authentic: Write in a conversational tone. Let your personality shine through as if you're chatting over coffee.
Share Stories: People love stories. Include brief anecdotes that relate to your message or share personal insights that add depth to your content.
Step 2: Visual Engagement is Everything
Too many people focus so hard on the words that they forget that integrating eye-catching images or graphics can significantly boost engagement. A visually appealing newsletter not only attracts attention but also makes the content more digestible, memorable, and enjoyable.
Key UNboring Actions:
Use Relevant Images: Align images with your content to reinforce your message visually. For example if you’re using something simple like an emoji for each bullet point, make sure your emoji directly relates to the topic of your point.
(Pro AI tip: This is the kind of action that ChatGPT can do for you in SECONDS once you have the text of your bullets)
Break Text with Visuals: Avoid large blocks of text. Use visuals to break up content, making it easier for readers to navigate and engage with your newsletter.
Step 3: Include Clear Calls to Action
Every newsletter should encourage readers to take some form of action, whether it’s visiting your website, signing up for a webinar, or following you on social media. Clear calls to action (CTAs) guide your readers on what to do next, increasing interaction and conversion opportunities.
Key UNboring Actions:
Be Specific: Tell your readers exactly what you want them to do. Use actionable language - active voice, present tense.
Make it Visible: Place your CTAs prominently within the newsletter. If possible, use buttons or links that stand out from the rest of the content.
Still not sure you want to do all the work?
Bonus: (Step 4) Get AI to Help you Write your Newsletter - Prompt Below
"Create a newsletter draft for a (your Industry/Interest) audience.
Start with a personal greeting that shares a brief update or story from my week (include a few lines on the story/insight).
Follow with a main body that educates on (Specific Topic).
Give me ideas for relevant visuals.
Add a call to action that offers free resources on (Related Topic) and promotes (Single Product/Service).
Include a section that highlights upcoming events, partner features, or valuable resources (include 3 feature details).
Conclude with a personal sign-off that teases the next issue’s content.
Make the tone light, easy to read, and entertaining."
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