TIERNEY JAMES

Lipstick & Danger

My Blog

Monkey Around With a Newsletter

New writers are often told they don’t need a newsletter at the start of their book promotion career. I think those warnings have more to do with the possibility of facing the monster of self-doubt, not a clue as to what needs to be done and what do you mean I need to self-promote my book? Been there, done that. In my case, I just didn’t have the tools or information to create a marketing plan. A newsletter is a significant part of that plan.

Reasons to Create a Newsletter
This is different than your website, which you also need to have in your marketing stable. But for today we are talking about a newsletter. Will it make a difference?
1. Inexpensive PR tool.
2. Most effective to bringing attention to your work and website.
3. Keeps readers, fans, and social media informed about new releases, book signing, and plans.
4. Shows you’re committed to your writing.
5. Sets you up as an expert and resource.

Things to Consider Before You Start
1. Who is your audience?
2. Choose your topics wisely.
3. Research whatever you’re talking about.
4. How often will your newsletter be available?
5. Will it be emailed or sent through traditional channels?
6. Colorful, good graphics and interesting content.
7. Which template and provider will you use?

What to expect?
I looked at the following newsletter gurus.
1. Constant Contact
2. MailChimp
3. Vertical Response

I chose MailChimp because I could afford it.
1. If you have 2000 names or less, MailChimp is free.
2. Integrates with Twitter
3. Easy to understand reports of accomplishments and campaigns.
4. Good lookout for spam.
5. Compatible with EventBrite.

Complaints:
I admit I’m not the most tech-savvy person on the planet. But I tried for weeks to get my newsletter setup by following their directions. I’m pretty sure there was a stroke in my future. Several people told me to stick with it, don’t give up and soon I would figure it all out. Didn’t happen. I just got more frustrated. However, I did myself a favor and followed a YouTube tutorial. The light bulb went on in the darkness and now I have a newsletter. Do yourself a favor. Start with the YouTube tutorial first! Turns out it wasn’t so hard after all.

I would love for you to sign up for my Lipstick & Danger Newsletter. For your support I’ll send you a free link to download my novel An Unlikely Hero. There is something big coming up in a couple of weeks where you could win a Kindle Paperwhite loaded with terrific books. It’s called Thrillers on the Beach. I’ll be sure to let you know all the details when you sign up. The contest starts April 15 and ends May 15. http://eepurl.com/doIUbv

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