The 3 Basics You Need to Start an Email Newsletter
An e-mail newsletter is one of the best ways to make almost any business at least twice as valuable, to generate substantial cash flow, and to double or triple profits. It’s also the perfect way to turn an interest or hobby into a moneymaking venture.
And starting one is much easier than you might think. You really need only three things (and the ability to be a good writer is not one of them):
1. Something to Write About
The Internet is full of thousands of people who are interested in the same things you are. So when you’re looking for a topic for your e-newsletter, think about your own interests, your own hobbies, and your own areas of expertise. This has two benefits. First, you’ll be able to write about your topic with endless enthusiasm. Second, you’ll be able to write articles that are useful, informative, and based on your own real-life experience.
2. An Audience
There are 1.6 billion Internet users out there, according to Internetworldstats.com. Among them is your audience. The best way to find these folks is through search engine marketing.
First, set up a small “landing page” that explains the benefits of reading your newsletter. Include a sign-up form that allows you to “capture” names and e-mail addresses.
Next, set up a pay-per-click (PPC) ad campaign with some of the major search engines. When people search for the keywords you’ve purchased, they’ll have a chance to see your ad. Once they click on your ad, they’ll be routed to the landing page you set up earlier.
You can also include a small ad for your e-newsletter on the back of your business card, on your voicemail message, and at the bottom of your e-mails. And tell other enthusiasts about your e-newsletter and ask them to share it with their friends.
3. A Way to Get the Message Out
To send out your e-newsletter, use an e-mail service provider like Get Response, AWeber, or 1Shoppingcart. That should set you back less than $30 a month. Your service provider will allow you to add subscribers automatically, create newsletters with pre-designed templates, and determine which subscribers open your e-mails and click on your links (so you can track those who are most responsive to your offers).
Once you’re up and running, you’re ready to start using your e-newsletter to generate income. I’ll tell you how to do that in my next article…