Most businesses recognize the importance of an effective newsletter. If organized and executed properly, you will attract the right customers, spread brand awareness, and build a relationship with your client base.

In order to accomplish these goals, a newsletter serves several purposes. First, they should update your subscribers, or rather, potential customers on any relevant news of the business. This may include advertising sales and promotional items or services, changes in location or policies, product or service tips, as well as any special events or activities sponsored by your business.

Keeping customers in the loop with this information gives them the opportunity to stay involved. Remember to send newsletters only to those who have opted to receive.

Next, your newsletter may provide supplemental material for subscribers including relevant articles related to your product or service, fun facts or “how to’s.” Provide these resources in creative ways to keep the reader engaged. Be sure to occasionally insert hyperlinks to articles and videos to give your information credibility, and allow the reader to explore more of the topic on their own.

There is a tremendous amount of power in word of mouth among consumers. Newsletters can offer subscribers a platform to read positive feedback regarding your product or service. Customer testimonials can be influential, as they provide a first-hand story or experience. Implement these stories and display quotes to build the integrity of your business.

The president or CEO of your business or organization represents who you are and what you stand for. The newsletter is a great opportunity to have them write a personal note introducing themselves to subscribers. Adding this personal touch helps build a friendly, personable relationship with customers.

Lastly, a newsletter is a great platform to advertise all of your social media handles. Building this follower base will provide customers yet another opportunity to connect with you.

As far as design and layout is concerned, there are a few tips and tricks to ensure your newsletter looks clean and orderly. If it looks appealing, subscribers are more likely to click and follow up. Use an appropriate number of boxes or sections. You do not want to bombard your readers with a mass amount of information. Instead, spread the material you would like to share with them over the course of once-monthly emails.

Be sure to keep colors and fonts uniform for the sake of continuity. Insert your company’s logo as well to ensure brand awareness. Subheadings are helpful when differentiating a change in topic.

In summary, newsletters should be clear and legible for readers. Send them out gradually and consistently, so subscribers can expect them in their inbox. This marketing tool is genuinely helpful in promoting your business and keeping customers interested in the newest offers and opportunities.

So what are you waiting for? Start to develop a newsletter strategy using these best practices to ensure customer attraction and retention.