In the quest for cost-effective business promotion strategies, e-mail newsletters, or "e-zines," are a powerful tool that should not be overlooked. Three years ago, I launched my own e-zine, "AKB MarCom Tips," as a fresh-faced copywriting and marketing consultant. The goal was simple: maintain contact with past associates, current clients, and potential customers while showcasing my expertise in crafting compelling web content, ads, and brochures. The results exceeded my expectations, with my e-zine generating tens of thousands of dollars in new business annually. If you're looking to promote your business or personal brand, here are five compelling reasons to start your own e-zine.
E-zines offer a credible and subtle way to promote your services or products. Instead of merely proclaiming your greatness, an e-zine allows you to demonstrate your expertise by sharing valuable information with your readers. This approach not only avoids blatant self-promotion but also positions you as a knowledgeable resource in your field.
Publishing an e-zine can establish you as an expert in your field. By sharing your knowledge and skills, you can attract more clients. Remember, being an expert doesn't mean knowing everything about your topic; it simply means knowing more than most people. If you're uncomfortable with the term "expert," consider yourself a "resource."
An e-zine is an effective way to maintain regular contact with your clients and prospects. It keeps you on their radar in a non-intrusive way, making them more likely to think of you, not your competition, when they need your services or products.
A well-written e-zine can easily be shared among friends and colleagues, allowing for effortless word-of-mouth promotion. This principle, known as "viral marketing," can significantly expand your reader base over time.
Compared to print newsletters, e-zines are cheap and easy to publish. There are no design, printing, or postage costs involved, making it essentially free to produce. The length of the e-zine can be adjusted to your preference, with some of the most effective e-zines featuring just one tip per issue.
Before diving into e-zine publishing, it's crucial to plan a quality publication from the start. Numerous websites offer articles, reports, tutorials, and manuals on the subject of e-zines. Here are a few to get you started:
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