EXTRA! Read All About It! by Sandra Ardoin
Okay, so that post title is corny, but it does go with my topic … sort of.
For shy introverts who find it difficult to say “Boo!” to people they don’t know, marketing a book can be a daunting task. Most—like me—fall into that “reclusive” group. We want to spend the time writing and leave the hawking of our books to the publisher’s marketing department. Unfortunately, that’s not possible, so we look for unique and clever ways to get our names and product in front of readers.
Many writers use an author newsletter to inform readers of the latest project or book release. As a subscriber to several of these newsletters, I’m always amazed at the variety of designs and materials in them.
Two of my favorites come from Pam Hillman and Margaret Brownley, both western romance writers. Their designs are eye-catching and the information pithy. As a bonus, with each issue, Margaret draws names from her list for book giveaways. (And I’ll add, her newsletter went into my consideration in reading her latest novel, reviewed here on Tuesday.)
When I began my own newsletter a few months ago, I created a template based on the types of information I’ve enjoyed getting from others.
Above is a portion of my Spring issue. I decided four times per year was plenty to keep people updated and, hopefully, entertained. For my first issue in December, I took a cue from Margaret Brownley and did a giveaway. This last issue didn’t have one, but the next (end of June) will.
I created the above meme and included it in the spring issue to represent my fiction-writing status. However, it didn’t copy over with the image of the newsletter page for this post.
I’m still tweaking and deciding what’s best, but would be pleased to have your feedback to help me create a newsletter that people want to read. (Of course, you’re more than welcome to subscribe to mine here. ;))
So tell me …
How are the colors (above)?
What do you like to read/see in an author newsletter? What don’t you like included?
How long should it be?
Who sends YOUR favorite newsletter, or do you subscribe to any? Why or why not?
How often should you receive one?
Sandra Ardoin
As an author of heartwarming historical and contemporary romance, Sandra Ardoin engages readers with page-turning stories of love and faith. Rarely out of reach of a book, she's also an armchair sports enthusiast, country music listener, and seldom says no to eating out.
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authoramheath
I questioned the need for a newsletter too. It’s hard to use so many different platforms and keep them separate at the same time.
I have a newsletter that I meant to send out once a month, but I fell away from it. I also intend to always send out a newsletter letting people know when I have a giveaway. The giveaway letter is much shorter than the normal letter and is basically only quick info and a link.
I like the colors you used in your newsletter. I chose a red that worked with my series title. As for information: I shared any random update that seems important, I also share a quick update on the work in progress (I let them know the detail such as word count, etc.), and I have a blog recap with links and a quick preview on the major blogs that they might have missed.
Since I fell away from my newsletter, I need to determine if I want to get back on board with monthly writing, seasonal, or only for important notices.
I’m not sure if any of that helps you or not, but it’s nice to bounce ideas off each other and see what pans out. 🙂
Dora Hiers
Love your meme and it fits your theme perfectly, Sandy! Just subscribed to yours, although I thought I already had signed up. Sorry if you get my name twice!:(
I enjoy reading newsletters especially when they include personal glimpses. They’re great for those seasons when I’m really short on time and can’t keep up with social media status updates. I can get everything in one reading. 🙂
Have a fabulous weekend!
Sandra Ardoin
Thank you so much, Dora, for both the kind comments and subscribing. 🙂 They are a fun way to feel connected to an author. I tried to make the colors line up with my website to keep everything coordinated. Looking forward to receiving your next issue! Enjoy your holiday!
Jennifer
I’m pretty easy to please with a newsletter. What I don’t like is one that reads like that once a year Christmas letter that is strictly about what they are doing and all their accomplishment (and their kids). Give me a relevant article, a craft idea, a recipe, a giveaway; something that makes me think you are thinking of me too 🙂
Sandra Ardoin
We definitely don’t want it to be a sell, sell, sell thing. Your ideas are all good ones, Jennifer, but you’re not likely to find recipes in mine. Crafts are good, though. Happy weekend!
Sandra Ardoin
You’re right, Anita. We can’t do everything, so I wouldn’t feel obligated to begin it again. 🙂 I think I like the newsletter because it’s another creative outlet, but it does take a great deal of time. I do like your idea of including a short update on your WIP. Have a great holiday!