10 Steps to a GREAT Newsletter

A newsletter can be a wonderful, economical way to communicate
with prospects, customers, employees or distributors. Just
follow these ten easy steps for newsletter success.

1) Define Your Audience -- Who are you publishing for? Clients
(customers) – present, past and prospective? Employees? Your
audience will define your content.

2) Set Objectives -- Create a solid foundation for your
newsletter by writing down what you want to achieve.

3) Plan Content -- What interests your audience? Build your
newsletter around whatever that is. Plan content at least half a
year at a time. You can make changes along the way.

4) Establish a Budget -- Newsletters can be cost effective, but
they’re not FREE. When you set a budget, consider start-up as
well as ongoing, per-issue costs.

5) Decide On a Schedule -- Like any new habit it takes time to
establish a pattern for a newsletter. But DO establish a
pattern. Your reward will be consistent readership.

6) Select a Name -- Your “baby” needs a name. Choose something
simple and relevant.

7) Develop a Design -- Determine format and length. Then select
a simple design – and stick with it.

8) Assign the Task of Writing -- Designate a good writer, editor
and proofreader – people who’ll respect your deadlines and tone.

9) Build Your Audience With Promotion -- There are lots of ways
to build internal or external readership. Use them.

10)Keep It Going -- Plan ahead. Maintain your schedule. Be
disciplined.

Don’t be afraid to call in help if you need it. Once you start
the newsletter habit, it’s important to stick with it.