Introduction to your newsletter: checklist
Getting started with your newsletter may seem like a daunting task, but if done step by step, it is well worth the time and effort. Initially, the creation process takes the longest. However, once you decide on a format, a publishing schedule, and have a template in place, it’s just a matter of creating new content for each issue.
Here’s a checklist to help you put the pieces together that will become your unique newsletter.
On the technical side of things, you will need:
– Decide which email delivery system you will use to send your newsletter and set up an account. The two I use and recommend the most are ConstantContact or a shopping cart like Practice Pay Solutions. Do your research to determine what best suits your needs. ConstantContact is a good place to start if you prefer to work with templates. If you know that you will be selling products from your website and creating electronic products as e-courses in the near future, choose a shopping cart that has e-commerce capabilities that you can activate when needed.
– Get the electronic files of the photo you would like to use and your company logo. You may have to ask your photographer and graphic designer to send you these images.
– Compile your lists. Get started on organizing your contact lists (or send them to your assistant to do so). For import purposes, just set up a spreadsheet in Excel with 3 titles; First Name, Last Name and Email and sort your contacts accordingly, ready to be uploaded to your chosen email delivery system.
Practical considerations:
– The type of content to include. For example, welcome message, article, suggestion, etc.
– The name of your newsletter. An important consideration when choosing a name is to imply what benefits your readers will get from your newsletter. Google “newsletter titles” for ideas and inspiration.
– Develop a publication schedule. Decide on the frequency (it’s good to start monthly), the day of the week, and the time of day.
The creative process is the fun part. First, start by gathering samples of online newsletters that you like in various ways. Here are some things to consider:
– The overall look and feel.
– Color theme. Remember to bring your brand to your newsletter design.
– Design.
Remember:
* Permission-based marketing is essential. Whenever possible, invite your contacts to subscribe to your newsletter. In your welcome note, tell your readers what they can expect from you each month, what benefits you get as a subscriber, and clearly state how they can easily unsubscribe from your mailing list. That option should always be available.
* Be consistent. Once you have your posting schedule in place, you need to commit to sending your newsletter as planned. People will expect to hear from you on a regular basis, and if there is a disruption in your shipments, this may reflect poorly on your reliability in all aspects of your business.
Your website alone cannot help you develop the kind of ongoing relationship with your contacts that your newsletter can. Newsletters have a personal touch because they arrive in the inbox of your potential customers. This type of communication is one of the best ways to position yourself as an expert and sell your services and products. Over time, publishing newsletters can improve the way you do business.