Blogs and newsletters are excellent ways for you to connect with readers. Have you ever wondered whether you should do one over the other or both? In this episode, we’ll provide you with the purposes and differences of blogs and newsletters, so you can make an informed decision about how you can best connect with readers. And, we’ll make suggestions for content for both.
SHOW NOTES:
Key differences between blogs and newsletters
Blogs usually focus on one topic and go into some depth about it. They are a great way to connect to readers and let them know something about you, personally and professionally.
Newsletters usually include several short topics, lead magnets, and links. They are a great way to keep your readers updated on your author-life and provide ways for them to take action (writing a review, entering a giveaway, buying your book…)
Hybrids can be a combination of both
Both can be sent on a schedule which you should determine based on your needs
Challenges:
Matching your own skill set & what you are comfortable sharing
Getting readership-relying on social media promotion
Gaining subscribers-sign-up sheets, giveaways that collect email addresses, Many Chat (app for Meta) Linktree
How we use blogs and newsletters
Blog sites: Wix, Wordpress, Squarespace
Mailers: Mailchimp, MailerLite
Substack: for both blogging and newsletters
Blog Topics:
Tell a personal story
Share a hobby
Provide instruction (a How To)
Write a review
Share your writing inspiration
A new project you’re starting
Newsletter Topics:
Quick writing update
News about upcoming events
Links to books, website, etc.
Links to giveaways or special offers
Exclusive offers
Links to appearances
Lists (Top Ten…)
Book recommendations
SOURCES & LINKS:
Blogging Versus Email Newsletter: Which Is Better for Writers?, Jane Friedman
How to Start Blogging: A Definitive Guide for Authors, Jane Friedman
Email Newsletters for Authors: Get Started Guide, Jane Friedman
“Creating Effective Author Newsletter,” Rebecca Rosenberg/ LaunchPad: The Countdown to Marketing Your Book
Episodes mentioned in this one:
Creating a Website: Options and Content, Episode 23
DO NOW: Assess your goals and skills. Research some of the (blog/newsletter) websites to determine the best fit for your needs. Make a list of topics that align with your brand.
Full Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.
Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.com
Hope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/
Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.com
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