Newsletters are still great ways to attract your list subscribers, bring them back to your blog, cross-promote on social media, and much more. But if your newsletters aren’t getting good results, here are some tweaks to consider.
1. Use the name “From” right
When sending a newsletter (or any email to your list), do not use a “no reply” email address or a generic name. You want them to know that this is yours and something they want to open. You’ll get more opportunities and more engagement when you use your name in email than if you use a generic name or even your company name.
2. Determine the basis of the format
Take a test to see if your audience responds better to HTML or text-based newsletters. It would be a shame to spend a lot of time creating a wonderful template for your newsletter and find that the majority of your audience prefers text-based emails. You can also give your audience the option when signing up depending on your email autoresponder platform.
3. Create an appropriate title
Your newsletter should have a title that is similar each time so they know what your newsletter is. Name your newsletter something appropriate and use it in your headline with personalization and the date if you have enough space.
4. Create thick content
When people read content online (whether it’s via email, phone, or PC), they don’t read it from left to right like they do on paper. They often scan the message and look at the main points and headings. By creating thick content with appropriate captions that grab attention and signal calls to action, you’ll get more response.
5. Segment your list
If you have a large list, it is important to segment it and then send each segment its own specialized newsletter. Often it can be the same newsletter but with different items highlighted and placed at the top, and a different call to action depending on where you are on the list.
6. Use compelling images
If you choose to send an HTML newsletter, use attractive images that grab attention and make your audience members want to click. Also, offer them the ability to click through and read the newsletter online on your site and not just by email.
7. Focus on benefits over features
When you mention any product, service, or information that requires a response from your audience, it’s imperative to focus on benefits over features. If you mention a feature, always keep track of the benefits of that feature.
8. Always include a call to action
It’s important to always include a call to action in your email newsletter announcing products, services, and events they can buy or participate in, and why they should.
