Sending Out a Monthly Newsletter
What is an Email Newsletter?
An author email newsletter is an email that keeps readers informed about what you are doing.
Why is it Important?
By consistently providing them with information, you are kept at the forefront of their mind so that when someone needs to buy a gift for a friend’s birthday, a book club needs a new book to read, or a follower wants a read for his summer vacation, they think of you and your book.
But Do I Really Need One?
Short answer is yes!
Somewhat longer answer, no, not if you do not enjoy it.
(That is the beauty of all this! You are in charge. You do not have to do all this or even half of it. Pick and choose what feels right for you.)
But back to the short answer. Yes, an email newsletter is worthwhile. Why?
You Have a Greater Chance of Getting Your Audience’s Attention
It sometimes takes people a while before they start paying attention. In the chaos of the online world, we rarely have time to read anything in-depth. An author newsletter catches the eye, slows a person down, and may even stop them long enough to read what you have to say!
They Can Get to Know You
Month after month, your audience will read what you have to say. You will entertain, and you will share. Your newsletter subscribers will start thinking of you as a friend and source of unique information. They will get to know you and become loyal to you. They will think of you often and want to support you.
Before you think it, I am going to stop you!
Think what?
I Don’t Want to Bug People
You may be thinking you do not want to bug people. Remember this: your newsletter is only one of many things your readership will see throughout the day. They may read it, or they may not. It is the subscriber’s responsibility to decide what they wish to read, not the sender’s to worry about whether they want to read it. They can always choose to unsubscribe at any time. Let them make the decision.
You Can Reach Them Quickly
When you have an email list, you can invite those on that list to your book launch, book signing or reading at a nearby coffee shop. If they come, they will buy. But you can’t invite them unless you can contact them.
So, do you really need an email list? Yes, you need one so they get to know you, trust that you will continue to show up, and will think of you often and want to support you.
— Cindy