How I Write My Weekly Newsletter

The Process, Tips, and Weekly Execution.

I started sending out my weekly newsletter in September of 2020. And so far, I’ve sent my subscribers a weekly email at the same time on the same day of every week without fail.

As of today, that’s 43 straight weeks without missing.

When I first started Sunday Notes I didn’t have a clue what I was doing but like anything, it’s all figureoutable. And over the weeks, I started to get a system down that allows me to write and schedule my email in less than 3 hours' time.

This is my system. Hopefully, there’s a couple of nuggets of info here that will help you with your newsletter.

1.) Research

In the beginning, I spent each week scouring the web for ideas to add to my email. I spent an absurd amount of time looking for ideas and links I thought my readers would enjoy.

Over time, I learned where to find ‘good stuff’ and made a list of sites that consistently published quality articles. There’s no real secret here besides getting a feel of what your readers want to read.

TL;DR — Publish, gain feedback, refine.

2.) Tools Of The Trade

While ConvertKit is my ESP [email service provider], Google’s ‘Send from Gmail’ Chrome extension is the workhorse of my system.

I use Send from Gmail to email myself links. I also email myself quotes, notes, and ideas. Anything that I think might be useful.

Everything is stored in a Gmail folder named [Sunday Notes] Send from Gmail is handy and by keeping everything in my email I can easily access the info.

TL;DR — ConvertKit and Gmail are all you need.

3.) Curation

Because my newsletter goes out on Sunday, I write it on Saturday morning.

I sift through the emails and decide on which links and ideas are going into the newsletter.

Then, I re-read any articles I’m going to share to make sure I’m selecting quality content.

TL;DR — Choose the best content and double-check what you’re sharing.

4.) Creation

The newsletter takes me 2–3 hours from start to finish.

Before scheduling, I email it to myself to make sure the formatting and editing are good to go. Also, I always manually check the links to make sure they are working properly.

On occasion, I have to make some tweaks so sending yourself a preview is always a good practice.

TL;DR — Email yourself a preview to check for mistakes.

5.) Scheduling

Consistency is key.

I schedule my email to be sent at the same time on the same day every single week — no exceptions.

That’s when I take a deep breath knowing it’s good to go.

Time for a drink!!

TL;DR — Stay consistent by sending at the same time on the same day of the week so subscribers know when to expect your newsletter.

6.) Promotion

I usually send out a Tweet or two on Twitter before the email goes out.

I also post on Facebook and Linkedin the night before enticing my audience to sign up. This usually nets me a few new subscribers.

TL;DR — Promote your upcoming newsletter the night before using social media.

7.) Feedback

By using ConvertKit’s analytics I’m able to see which links were popular.

It’s important to see what’s resonating with your audience and what isn’t. I also look at open rates and click rates. The higher the numbers, the better.

The goal is to do more of what works and less of what doesn’t. It’s all about the audience.

TL;DR — Check to see what’s popular with your audience to provide more of what they prefer.

8.) Replies

Within 24–48 hours I reply to all emails readers have sent me.

This is the best feedback I get and I encourage my readers to reply to my newsletter.

By replying to each and every reader I am able to establish a better connection. The feedback is much appreciated.

TL;DR — Always reply to your audience. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect.

And that’s how Sunday Notes goes from start to finish every Saturday.

If you would like to subscribe to Sunday Notes you can do so here. If you have any questions about my process feel free to email me via my about page.

Thanks for reading. I hope this was helpful.

For thoughts and comments @ me on Twitter

Exploring Timeless Ideas, Life Design, and Simplicity at BarryFralick.com