I suppose the newsletter types I've referred to in this article are outside of Substack, so they're probably "bigger" creators (ie. those with at least 5-figure sub lists). I think most Substack newsletters look good and are easy to read, because the platform's good at facilitating that, but the same basic rules apply to everyone: white space, shorter lines and subheadings are the newsletter writer's best friend.
Understand. When I was looking to launch mine, when I first joined Jamie’s Minimalist Hustler Skool group, I found it hard to imagine how I could deliver a minimalist newsletter yet still convey a message or inform. But it’s possible. And you’ve outlined many of the desirable traits in you post.
I'm onto the not-too-long as well, though it is hard when you have a lot meaningful to share. On the other side how many other newsletters are addressed to the same mailbox? I'm learning not to reduce but select contents 😊
Attention to punctuation is key for me to read with ease and enjoyment. Email and text messaging have destroyed good grammer and punctuation rules, which were created for a reason! And does anyone proof articles before posting? Seriously! I can’t get through the first paragraph of most reads today without errors jumping off the page. If I have to reread a sentence to understand it then it should have been proofed for proper punctuation and flow. Sorry; I’m old school, but I believe those rules still hold today, along with your content suggestions if one wants to maintain a reader’s attention to the end.
I am wondering how and whether I should introduce a conversational tone to mine though... I guess it depends on what you think your specific readers want?
David, your comparison between newsletters and meals offers an insightful perspective that's often overlooked. Particularly compelling is the emphasis on a conversational tone, which truly bridges the gap between writer and reader, making the newsletter feel like a warm, engaging dialogue rather than a monologue. This aspect not only fosters a stronger connection but also enhances the reader's engagement, encouraging a more immersive reading experience. It’s a testament to the power of personal touch in digital communication.
Thanks for this great article David. Your points sum up my thoughts exactly so it's nice to know I'm not alone in my desire for clear, short pieces that mean something to me.
David this was really useful!
David, any newsletter examples from non-so-big creators? Someone we’re less likely to have heard of whose format and layout are on point?
Hey Andrew! Can you give me an example of a creator you're currently subscribed to?
https://open.substack.com/pub/jrheimbigner?r=77lwi&utm_medium=ios
I suppose the newsletter types I've referred to in this article are outside of Substack, so they're probably "bigger" creators (ie. those with at least 5-figure sub lists). I think most Substack newsletters look good and are easy to read, because the platform's good at facilitating that, but the same basic rules apply to everyone: white space, shorter lines and subheadings are the newsletter writer's best friend.
Understand. When I was looking to launch mine, when I first joined Jamie’s Minimalist Hustler Skool group, I found it hard to imagine how I could deliver a minimalist newsletter yet still convey a message or inform. But it’s possible. And you’ve outlined many of the desirable traits in you post.
*your post…. Wouldn’t want the trolls to come after me! 🙂
Beware of the trolls! 😂
Great advice :)
Thanks Gina!
Love this! Working on the conversational tone😊
I'm onto the not-too-long as well, though it is hard when you have a lot meaningful to share. On the other side how many other newsletters are addressed to the same mailbox? I'm learning not to reduce but select contents 😊
Golden information. All of it
Thanks David!
Attention to punctuation is key for me to read with ease and enjoyment. Email and text messaging have destroyed good grammer and punctuation rules, which were created for a reason! And does anyone proof articles before posting? Seriously! I can’t get through the first paragraph of most reads today without errors jumping off the page. If I have to reread a sentence to understand it then it should have been proofed for proper punctuation and flow. Sorry; I’m old school, but I believe those rules still hold today, along with your content suggestions if one wants to maintain a reader’s attention to the end.
I'm a newsletter addict too! I need to take the time to log/count them. I'm sure it's over 250.
You practice what you preach! :-)
I am wondering how and whether I should introduce a conversational tone to mine though... I guess it depends on what you think your specific readers want?
I've read it through. That should telk you it's delicious.😋
David, your comparison between newsletters and meals offers an insightful perspective that's often overlooked. Particularly compelling is the emphasis on a conversational tone, which truly bridges the gap between writer and reader, making the newsletter feel like a warm, engaging dialogue rather than a monologue. This aspect not only fosters a stronger connection but also enhances the reader's engagement, encouraging a more immersive reading experience. It’s a testament to the power of personal touch in digital communication.
No 10 easy steps? 🤣
Thanks for this great article David. Your points sum up my thoughts exactly so it's nice to know I'm not alone in my desire for clear, short pieces that mean something to me.
Love the point on focus. I do tend to mirror my mental wanderings onto the page and veer off the point.
great article with some useful tips. The image has reallllyyy made me hungry though!!