by Claire Cunningham

A newsletter can be a wonderful, economical way to communicate with prospects, customers, employees or distributors. Just follow these ten easy steps for newsletter success.

1) Define Your Audience -- Who are you publishing for? Clients (customers) – present, past and prospective? Employees? Your audience will define your content.

2) Set Objectives -- Create a solid foundation for your newsletter by writing down what you want to achieve.

3) Plan Content -- What interests your audience? Build your newsletter around whatever that is. Plan content at least half a year at a time. You can make changes along the way.

4) Establish a Budget -- Newsletters can be cost effective, but they’re not FREE. When you set a budget, consider start-up as well as ongoing, per-issue costs.

5) Decide On a Schedule -- Like any new habit it takes time to establish a pattern for a newsletter. But DO establish a pattern. Your reward will be consistent readership.

6) Select a Name -- Your “baby” needs a name. Choose something simple and relevant.

7) Develop a Design -- Determine format and length. Then select a simple design – and stick with it.

8) Assign the Task of Writing -- Designate a good writer, editor and proofreader – people who’ll respect your deadlines and tone.

9) Build Your Audience With Promotion -- There are lots of ways to build internal or external readership. Use them.

10)Keep It Going -- Plan ahead. Maintain your schedule. Be disciplined.

Don’t be afraid to call in help if you need it. Once you start the newsletter habit, it’s important to stick with it.