Anyone who has a blog or a business has probably heard the notion that they should start a newsletter. I sure have.
But the justifications for why I should start one seemed a bit out of my reach as a relatively small business and creator.
- I don’t have hundreds of thousands of people following my blog or social media channels
- I don’t have a clear product or service to sell
- and most importantly, I couldn’t think of anything to say.
In all honesty, when I heard the word newsletter all I could think about were the very dry and flashy spam emails dropping into our mailboxes every day. The word ‘newsletter’ didn’t really evoke any positive connotations in my mind. And I didn’t want to join in as one of the “spammers”.
But still I found myself setting up a newsletter of my own including welcoming funnels and all sorts. This was years ago but I haven’t actively used it for marketing. But still the amount of subscribers has kept on growing. And that has taught me something!
So, before I give you the 10 reasons to kickstart your newsletter, let’s do a quick comparison between social media marketing and using a newsletter.
Newsletter vs. Social Media marketing
We all know by now that Instagram is largely a very fake platform: faked photos, fake followers, fake you-name-it. On top of it being very fake, it’s also an extremely unstable platform. Constant “updates” happen without our consent, and often at our cost.
So, while Instagram perhaps once was the main marketing platform for brands to promote their products, it’s quickly lost its sparkle.
- Firstly, half of major celebrities’ followers are not human, but bots.
- And secondly, Reels and Instagram algorithm just ain’t got nothing on TikTok.
Another thing is the fact that social media companies have lately decreased your organic reach on their platforms. And they’ve done it at such a large scale that fewer and fewer people see your content. Whereas your emails always go through to everyone.
So, it’s no surprise that email marketing has a 40 times bigger conversion rate than social media marketing. Even compared to TikTok.
If this isn’t yet enough to convince you, let’s see some concrete reasons to start a newsletter sooner rather than later.
10 Reasons to Kickstart Your Newsletter
Now, if you think you must have a website or a significant social media presence, let me release you from these misconceptions! I grew my newsletter subscriptions to over a 100 with only 900 Instagram followers.
Having a website and a product or a service to sell obviously helps and motivates you. But none of it is necessary in getting started. You can start a newsletter to use it like a blog at first. It’s 100% yours to control and create.
In case you would like to get started on building a website in addition to a newsletter, I can personally recommend Lyrical Host as a service to get started with. You can get 10% off from your first hosting plan by using the code OUTLANDISH10 at checkout.
1. Become a Trustworthy Guru
The no.1 reason to start a newsletter is so you can share your wisdom, wit, and wonderfulness! A newsletter lets you show off what you stand for and how you can help people.
Soon, your subscribers will be quoting you at dinner parties and claiming they knew you before you were cool and famous.
2. Take Control of Your Content
As mentioned, unlike the wild west of social media – where algorithms change more often than your socks – start a newsletter to gain back the driver’s seat.
Your message lands right in their inbox. No crossing fingers or spellwork required to make sure people see you content. Plus, you’ve got all your subscriber data at your fingertips, which can greatly help you with planning future content.
3. Marketing With a Personal Touch
Start a newsletter to establish a better and closer relationship with your audience. Newsletters can be like sending love letters to your audience, minus the cheesy poetry.
They’re direct, personal, and don’t get lost in the noisy digital world. (Although I would urge your subscribers to add your newsletter to their favourites to avoid it going to spam.) Think of it as a warm hug delivered via email.
4. Showcase Your Expertise
Start a newsletter to share valuable content. By doing so you’re not just another voice in the crowd; you’re the expert.
When people realize you genuinely know your stuff, they’ll come to you for advice like you’re the office coffee machine – indispensable!
5. Master the Gentle Sales Pitch
Your newsletter is a suave sales tool, not a used car salesman. It subtly reminds folks who you are and how you roll. So, when they need what you offer, you’re the first name that pops into their heads.
6. Make Money With Your Knowhow
- Learned a new skill?
- Discovered a nifty tool?
- People always bugging you for advice?
These are all ways to earn an extra buck, so start a newsletter already! Turn those nuggets of information into newsletter gold. Comb through your emails, DMs, and social media for the gems everyone’s looking for.
7. Share the BTS
Start a newsletter to allow people to peek behind the curtains through your emails. Share the story of your business, the trials and triumphs of your latest project, or share your take on the latest industry buzz.
Behind-the-scenes content is on the rise so make your subscribers feel like they’re part of your inner circle.
8. Start a Chatter
The best part of newsletters is the connections you make. A simple “Hit reply and share your thoughts!” can lead to thoughtful conversations, witty banter, and maybe even new friendships. Who knew email could be so social?
9. Round Up the Good Stuff
Found some cool links? Industry news? Interesting reads? Share them with your audience and add your two cents. It helps them see what you’re about and gives them some fun stuff to check out.
10. Shout About Yourself
Okay, this should’ve been the number one reason to start a newsletter. Because of course it’s all about you!
Don’t be shy! Remind your readers how they can work with you. Share a client success story or give them a peek at your offerings. You’re awesome, and your newsletter is the perfect place to show it off.
Start a Newsletter – Conclusion
As you can see above, to start a newsletter you don’t need to have everything under control or even be an entrepreneur.
To summarize, if you’re not starting a newsletter with the sole purpose of selling something, other good reasons to still send one are:
- sharing your content to the most dedicated people
- asking for ideas / feedback / help
- having more honest communication than you’d have on other platforms
- keeping your followers up-to-date on what goes on in your life and what they can expect from you.
As I mentioned, my newsletter is a very fresh one, but it is so exciting to follow the subscription number going up! And it also makes me want to provide these people, who have seen fit to support me, content that is worth their time.
Now, I’m still figuring out how to best use my newsletter to your benefit. But if you want to be among the first to know when I crack this code, then subscribe to my newsletter here.
Do you have a newsletter? Let me know in the comments! ♥
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