As an author, building a strong connection with your readers is crucial.

One effective way to do this is by starting your own newsletter.

A newsletter allows you to cultivate a loyal audience by offering consistent, personal engagement. Readers who subscribe are inviting you into their inbox, giving you an opportunity to share updates, exclusive content, and insights into your creative process.

It gives us the chance to build a better relationship with our readers. .

So, how do we get started?

Select a platform that fits your needs. Popular options include Mailchimp, ConvertKit, and Substack.

Consider factors like budget, mailing list size, and necessary features, such as automation and analytics.

Your email list is vital to your newsletter’s success. Add a sign-up form to your website and social media profiles, and offer an incentive like a free short story or discount to encourage sign-ups. Promote your newsletter regularly to grow your list. 

Be sure to include an option to opt out. 

Consistency is key. Decide how often you can realistically send out newsletters without sacrificing quality. Most authors find that a monthly newsletter works well, but you can increase frequency around book releases or special promotions. Make it your main goal to maintain a regular schedule to ensure steady growth on your newsletter.

Create a content calendar to plan your newsletter topics. Consider including:

• Behind-the-scenes content
• Author interviews
• Book recommendations
• Writing tips
• Exclusive content

Your newsletter should mix engaging content to keep readers interested. Here are some ideas:

• Swaps: Partner with other authors to feature each other’s books, expanding your audience.
• Promos: Offer exclusive discounts or announce flash sales to boost engagement.

Recommended Frequency Most authors would at least get 1 newsletter released per month. Several sources states that the best time to publish is around 9:00AM to 12:00PM. 

However, the determining ideal frequency for your newsletter will depend on your content and audience.

Consider the following factors:

• How often do you create new content?
• When is your audience likely to check their mails?
• How much time can you dedicate to writing and sending your newsletter?

Need help managing your newsletter?