As printing and mailing expenses continue to increase, e-newsletters provide a great way for churches to save money. Here are five quick tips for creating an effective (and easy!) e-newsletter for your members and visitors.
1. You only get one first impression.
Entice readers with subject lines that make them want to open and read your messages. Subject lines should identify your church or ministry, and then provide the theme of the overall message. For example, here is the subject of one of our e-newsletters (show onscreen: MyCom Feb. Issue: Easter & Worship Projection Tips).
2. Cut the confusion.
The best e-newsletters are easy to follow. Keep the layout basic and save time by using the same template each month. Create a table of contents at the top of the page to help readers navigate the format and easily locate articles they want to read. Set a delivery schedule and stick to it. This way, your readers will know when to expect communication from you.
3. Get to the point.
Just like the average attention span, articles should be short. Include the basics-who, what, when, where, why and how. You can always provide more details by giving links to your website or blog. Enhance articles with photos, but don't go overboard. If you have more than a few photos to share, host them in an album on your Facebook page or website and link to it.
4. Link the past to the future.
A series of articles or a featured section is a great way to build readership. Give a short tease of what's coming up in the next issue and link to past articles that relate to that subject or feature. This will keep them coming back for more.