Blogs and newsletters are excellent ways for you to connect with readers. Have you ever wondered whether you should do one over the other or both? In this episode, we’ll provide you with the purposes and differences of blogs and newsletters, so you can make an informed decision about how you can best connect with readers. And, we’ll make suggestions for content for both.

SHOW NOTES:

Key differences between blogs and newsletters

Blogs usually focus on one topic and go into some depth about it. They are a great way to connect to readers and let them know something about you, personally and professionally.

Newsletters usually include several short topics, lead magnets, and links. They are a great way to keep your readers updated on your author-life and provide ways for them to take action (writing a review, entering a giveaway, buying your book…)

Hybrids can be a combination of both

Both can be sent on a schedule which you should determine based on your needs

Challenges:

Matching your own skill set & what you are comfortable sharing

Getting readership-relying on social media promotion

Gaining subscribers-sign-up sheets, giveaways that collect email addresses, Many Chat (app for Meta) Linktree

How we use blogs and newsletters

Blog sites: Wix, Wordpress, Squarespace

Mailers: Mailchimp, MailerLite

Substack: for both blogging and newsletters

Blog Topics:

Tell a personal story

Share a hobby

Provide instruction (a How To)

Write a review

Share your writing inspiration

A new project you’re starting

Newsletter Topics:

Quick writing update

News about upcoming events

Links to books, website, etc.

Links to giveaways or special offers

Exclusive offers

Links to appearances

Lists (Top Ten…)

Book recommendations

SOURCES & LINKS:

Blogging Versus Email Newsletter: Which Is Better for Writers?, Jane Friedman

How to Start Blogging: A Definitive Guide for Authors, Jane Friedman

Email Newsletters for Authors: Get Started Guide, Jane Friedman

“Creating Effective Author Newsletter,” Rebecca Rosenberg/ LaunchPad: The Countdown to Marketing Your Book

Episodes mentioned in this one:

Creating a Website: Options and Content, Episode 23

DO NOW: Assess your goals and skills. Research some of the (blog/newsletter) websites to determine the best fit for your needs. Make a list of topics that align with your brand.

Full Show Notes are available on our website as well as free downloads mentioned in the episode.

Authors Talking Bookish https://www.authorstalkingbookish.com

Hope Gibbs, author of Where the Grass Grows Blue https://www.authorhopegibbs.com/

Donna Norman-Carbone, author of All That is Sacred & Of Lies and Honey https://www.donnanormancarbone.com

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