Do you want to write a newsletter? Have you been thinking about it but haven’t got around to it yet? Does it feel intimidating? Have you heard you should but not exactly sure why it’s worth the time and effort? If you answered ‘yes’ you are not alone.

Here are the top 7 reasons why you should write and distribute a newsletter and the benefits associated with doing so.

1. Stay in touch. Maintain ongoing client relationships by engaging your list of followers on an ongoing basis. ‘Touching’ your subscribers regularly keeps you top of mind and reminds them that you’re open for business. To grow your list, ensure you have a sign up form on your website to invite visitors to subscribe to your newsletter.

2. Show your expertise. You may think it’s all been said before and there is nothing new for you to write about. But when you write what you know it shows you have something important to share and you will have your own unique way of doing so that sets you apart. Demonstrate your expertise with informative articles and tips that address your clients’ needs.

3. The KLT (Know, Like and Trust) Factor. Your readers get to know you, like you and trust you by way of this type of regular communication. Providing them with great information shows that you care about them. And who will they call when they need the type of products or services that you offer? That’s right, you! Like any of us, they want to do business with the person they know, like and trust.

4. Help generate the ‘buzz’ about your business. Have you attended an industry event, conducted a workshop or been interviewed on a podcast? Sharing where you’ve been and what you’ve been up to helps build your credibility. It shows that you are active and committed to your area of expertise and you are the skilled and knowledgeable ‘go to’ person when they need what you provide.

5. Build your library of content. When you write a newsletter, the articles can be repurposed later and distributed to the article marketing directories and posted to your blog. 500 words is the standard requirement for article submissions so keep this in mind when writing. Combine several similar themed articles to build information products to give away or sell. Create a book, e-course or e-book by compiling your written content.

6. New opportunities arise. A reader may approach you to speak on a topic that you’ve written about or be a guest on their blog. I’ve been invited to be a regular columnist in a local publication. You may also be asked to partner with someone to develop a new program and more. All of which opens up opportunities to reach more people and build your list.

7. Make more sales. Your newsletter should be 80% informational, 20% sales-y. Once you have informed your readers, let them know what you have to offer that may help them. Launch new products and services through your newsletter and include ‘special offers’ exclusive to your subscribers only.

Creating and distributing an email newsletter is a marketing strategy that works and has many benefits. By building relationships and a level of trust your readers feel confident to do business with you. All of which can lead to more clients, more opportunities and more income!

 Try it yourself and see how your business can change when you write a newsletter.