How to Write an Author Newsletter
10 Tips to Write an Engaging Author Newsletter
For authors, engaging with your readers through a newsletter is an excellent way to build a loyal following and keep your audience excited about your work. Here are some effective strategies to make your newsletter a must-read for your fans.
1. Share Your Current Projects
Start by giving your readers a peek into what you are working on right now. For instance, if you are an author like Nadia, you might describe a project currently on your bench. Perhaps it’s a rainbow canvas featuring a still-life of combat boots. Share details about the media you are using, post some sketches, and include work-in-progress shots. Explain why this project resonates with you. If it is challenging, talk about those difficulties. If it’s a form of productive procrastination, discuss what other tasks you’re avoiding.
Engagement Tip: Ask your readers for their thoughts. Do they like the painting? Do they have a favorite type of boot? Engaging your readers with questions invites them into your creative process and makes them feel connected.
2. Discuss Your Thoughts and Decisions
Next, share what’s on your mind regarding your work. For example, Nadia might talk about her upcoming art show and the dilemma of choosing between big pieces and smaller items. Quote your internal debates verbatim: “If I bring the big stuff, will it be a show where people have light wallets? If I bring the little stuff, will people ask where all my big pieces are?”
Engagement Tip: Invite your audience to weigh in, especially if they’re attending the same event. Ask them directly: “What types of paintings, stickers, or sketches do you want to see?” This makes your newsletter interactive and gives your readers a stake in your decisions.
3. Highlight Something Cool
Share something you find cool or inspiring. It could be a friend's project, a podcast, a book, or even a TV show. For example, Nadia might mention sending scraps of canvas and papers to a friend who turned them into unique junk journals. Sharing these stories not only highlights your interests but also promotes other authors and creators you admire.
Engagement Tip: Include links to these cool projects or items. This not only enriches your newsletter content but also builds a sense of community and mutual support among creatives.
4. Offer Exclusive Deals
Reward your loyal readers with a special offer. Include a simple coupon code for a discount on your store items. For example: “As a thank you for being a subscriber, here’s a coupon code for 10% off anything in my store. Feel free to share it with friends, and if you could share the newsletter too, I’d appreciate it!”
Engagement Tip: Exclusive deals make your subscribers feel valued and appreciated, encouraging them to stay subscribed and share your newsletter with others.
By incorporating these elements into your author newsletter, you’ll not only engage your audience but also build trust and loyalty. If you need help setting up your newsletter or creating a website to showcase your work, I’d love to help. Let’s work together to make your online presence as compelling as your stories.
5. Provide Behind-the-Scenes Insights
Give your readers a behind-the-scenes look at your creative process. Share photos or videos of your workspace, talk about your daily routines, or describe the rituals that help you get into the creative zone. This can make your readers feel like they’re getting an exclusive peek into your world.
Engagement Tip: Encourage readers to share their own creative spaces or routines. You could even feature some of their responses in future newsletters.
6. Share Reader Testimonials and Reviews
Include testimonials or reviews from your readers. Whether it’s feedback on your latest book, artwork, or another project, sharing positive reviews can build credibility and encourage more readers to engage with your work.
Engagement Tip: Invite readers to leave reviews or share their thoughts on your work. Offer a small incentive, like a discount code or a chance to be featured in your newsletter.
7. Offer Exclusive Content
Provide your newsletter subscribers with exclusive content they can’t get anywhere else. This could be sneak peeks of upcoming projects, early access to new releases, or even exclusive short stories or artworks.
Engagement Tip: Create a sense of anticipation by teasing upcoming exclusive content in your newsletters, encouraging readers to stay subscribed and look forward to future issues.
8. Host Giveaways and Contests
Engage your readers with fun giveaways and contests. Whether it’s a signed copy of your book, a piece of your artwork, or a custom creation, contests can boost engagement and grow your subscriber list.
Engagement Tip: Ask readers to share your newsletter or follow you on social media for additional entries. This can help you reach a wider audience and gain more subscribers.
9. Include a Personal Note
End your newsletter with a personal note. Share a bit about your life, your thoughts, or your gratitude for their support. This personal touch can make your readers feel more connected to you as a person, not just as an artist or author.
Engagement Tip: Ask readers to reply with their thoughts or questions. This can start a conversation and make your newsletter feel more like a two-way communication channel.
10. Highlight Upcoming Events and Appearances
Keep your readers informed about your upcoming events, appearances, or releases. Whether it’s a book signing, an art show, or an online event, letting your readers know where they can see you or your work next keeps them engaged and excited.
Engagement Tip: Encourage readers to attend these events and offer special incentives for newsletter subscribers who do, like a discount or a small gift.