Delivering Information in a Way that Entices Readers
Let’s face it, black text on a white background wears out even the most loyal readers. And, sometimes, we just plain want the Internet to live up to its original promise. Where’s that multimedia and interaction when you need it?
It’s not enough for you to share great information in your newsletter–you need to share it in a way that’s easy and enjoyable for your readers.
Today, we’re going to talk about making your email content more interactive so that your readers will really look forward to each issue.
Here are four tips to help you engage your readers beyond the typical email design:
1. Add audio. You can use a service like AudioGenerator or a program like Audacity. The audio doesn’t have to be a word-for-word reading of your newsletter.
- Get creative. NIF reader and Boston Health Coach Christi Lehner shared a piano recording with her newsletter readers (using her voicemail) in her March issue.
2. Add video. PowerPoint slideshows, screenshot demos, and other presentations that combine both audio and video are a great way to connect with your readers. Learning to do this well will take more time, but once you’ve mastered audio, this is the natural next step.
3. Add alternative delivery methods. Some people prefer reading RSS feeds to email, while others really like the format of a blog. Do your best to accommodate these different styles. While there are significant differences between blogs, RSS and email newsletters, they’re very complimentary technologies.
- Keep it simple. Check out the new blog and RSS feed for Newsletters in Focus at www.thenewslettercoach.com to see our basic approach.
4. Accept no substitutions. Making your newsletter more interactive and offering new distribution options is a wonderful way to make your newsletter more accessible to readers. Just remember not to abandon your read-able email newsletter. You’ll find that’s still a comfortable format for many of your readers.
Your Challenge: Come up with one new creative way to deliver your newsletter content or interact with your readers. How might you enrich their experience with multimedia?
Members: Talk about this topic in the forum.
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About the Author
Jessica helps independent professionals become Indispensable Experts through powerful publishing programs. She works with clients one-on-one as a newsletter designer and writer and in groups through the Newsletter Spa.
Email Jessica directly, to find out more.