A Good Newsletter Can Improve Your Image and Increase Sales

The email newsletter is an essential part of the marketing mix for companies large and small. Consumers are invited to sign up with the promise of a flow of fascinating and useful information. The reality is often different with the result that disappointed readers unsubscribe from the distribution list. Here are some do's and don'ts to help you succeed with your email newsletter:

Don't

1. Think it is about you and your products. Look at it from the reader's point of view. You have to provide something interesting and valuable to customers so lots of product features are not the answer. Tips, hints, how-to advice and user stories are better.

2. Try too hard to sell. Too many special offers and sales pitches will turn readers off.

3. Make it long, detailed and dull. Surely no explanation is needed yet many newsletters display these mistakes.

4. Mail too often. Most people are suffering from newsletter fatigue so a regular monthly mailing is generally preferable to something every few days. Continue reading ...

Article by, Paul Sloane and courtesy of Associated Content, Inc.