My freelance writing and editing business has a global focus, as well as a local one (Portland, Oregon), and I tune my marketing accordingly. I advertise locally, and I write this blog to reach potential clients all over the world.
I added e-mail marketing this week. I kept my first e-mail newsletter (e-newsletter) short, included a grammar tip and a “mystery word,” and ended it with two promotions: one for new clients and another for clients I haven’t spoken to in awhile.
I designed my e-newsletter this way because I receive several e-newsletters from clients, friends, and companies I’ve hired. I only enjoy reading them if the content is useful and compelling. I hit “unsubscribe” or click “delete” when e-newsletters come too frequently or if they’re the e-mail equivalent of someone who loves the sound of his or her own voice (a big pet peeve of mine).
I received some nice comments, so I know I’m on the right track. According to my MailChimp stats, I enjoyed an open rate of 44%. That means I’m an effective marketer, according to one expert, or I’m somewhat delusional if I think that’s an accurate rate, according to another expert. ;-)
I’m still learning. But I am committed to improving the content so my readers enjoy this once-a-month missive. If you’re interested, I hope you’ll join me.
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How about you? How do you feel about e-newsletters?
