How to Create an Author Newsletter (Without Losing Your Mind)
We've all been there – staring at a blank screen, wondering what on earth to write in our newsletter. Or worse, looking at our to-do list and thinking, "A newsletter? Really? On top of everything else?"
I get it. As authors, we're already juggling manuscript deadlines, social media, possibly a day job, let alone family obligations. The thought of adding one more task can feel overwhelming.
But here's the thing: your newsletter isn't just another marketing task – it's your direct line to readers who love your work.
Why Your Newsletter Matters More Than Social Media
Think about it: When you post on social media, you're essentially renting space on someone else's platform. Your carefully crafted posts might reach your followers... or they might get buried by the algorithm.
But your newsletter? That's yours. Those subscribers chose to hear from you, and no algorithm can get between you and their inbox.
Creating a Sustainable Newsletter Strategy (The Stress-Free Way)
So how can you actually create a newsletter in a way that doesn’t feel overwhelming and creates a genuine community with you and your readers? Here’s an easy to apply plan that you can put to work:
1) Start Monthly (Yes, Really!) Remember when you first started writing? You didn't sit down and write a novel in a day. The same principle applies here. Start with one newsletter a month – that's just 12 newsletters a year. It's like writing a short letter to a friend once a month. Manageable, right?
2) Use What You Already Have Here's where many authors overthink things. You don't need to create brand-new content for every newsletter. Look around – you probably have more content than you realize:
That TikTok about your writing process? Newsletter content.
The Instagram post about your research rabbit hole? Newsletter content.
That blog post from two years ago about character development? Still valuable newsletter content.
Think of your newsletter as a curator of your best content. Your subscribers might not have seen these gems the first time around, and even if they did, they chose to hear more from you because they want your perspective.
3) Keep It Snappy Put yourself in your readers' shoes. When you open your email and see a wall of text, what's your first reaction? Probably "I'll read this later" (which often means never). Your newsletters don't need to be epic sagas. A quick update, a valuable tip, or an interesting insight into your writing process – that's plenty.
4) The Give-and-Take Balance Here's a secret many authors miss: Your newsletter isn't just about selling books. It's about building relationships. Share your writing journey. Offer behind-the-scenes peeks at your process. When you consistently provide value, your readers will be much more excited to hear about your new release when it's time.
Planning Your First Year (Without the Stress)
Start by looking at your calendar. What's happening in your writing world over the next year? Book launches, writing milestones, seasonal themes – these can all become newsletter topics. Then fill in the gaps with evergreen content like writing tips, character insights, or research discoveries.
Remember: You're not writing for everyone – you're writing for your ideal readers, the ones who love your work and want to hear more from you. Keep that in mind, and suddenly, writing your newsletter becomes less about marketing and more about connecting with your community.
Quick Start Guide:
Pick one day each month for your newsletter
Gather existing content you can repurpose
Create a simple 12-month content calendar
Start with something easy – maybe a "behind the scenes" look at your current project
The key to adding a newsletter to your marketing process is all about working smarter and not harder - you don’t have to reinvent the wheel every time you send a newsletter.
But if you would like the step-by-step guidance to help you with the technicalities of setting up your newsletter and creating an engaging newsletter without the stress, I’ve got you covered! Get your copy of my Newsletter Starter Kit for Authors!
P.S. Be sure to check out my brand new 52 Newsletter Templates for Writers - coming in February 2025!! If you want to be put on the list to be notified when it’s live, download my FREE Newsletter Checklist and you will be the first to know when it’s available.
