There are a number of good things to be said about publishing a newsletter online and distributing to a mailing list via email.
For one, it’s a green effort to move your newsletter to the web. (In case you’ve been living under a rock, “green” is that thing that smart business owners are bragging about because it’s a change that’s good for the environment, and great for public relations.)
If you want to do your part to save the world, one tree at a time, then it just might be time to consider moving your newsletter to the internet. But slow down, because there’s even more benefits to consider.
Publishing your newsletter online is unbelievably cost effective compared to the cost of printing and distributing via direct mail. Is there possibly a better reason to make this change than saving a ton of money?
Hold on a second, I’m not done yet!
Yes, it’s a great idea to transition an existing newsletter to a strictly web based publication.
But it’s not something to jump right into!
You also have to keep in mind the following:
How Will Your Current Subscription List Respond?
Consider your demographics. Will they feel comfortable, if not appreciative, of this change? Or will your market respond with an upset?
It is rude to think that every living person relies on a computer for information. Believe it or not, there are still many out there who prefer the standard (“old fashioned”) newspaper with a cup of coffee rather than the RSS feed of headlines.
Ask yourself: Is saving a few bucks really worth losing a loyal subscription list?
Solution: Test Your Audience
The best way to find out how your loyal readers will feel is to ask. Include a poll or announcement in your next newsletter, posing the idea to drop the print version and switch to the web. Not only will this help you determine the response of the idea, but it might also help you adjust your distribution list to eliminate the unresponsive subscribers.
Ready To Take That Fatal Jump?
The transition varies for everyone, based on many factors. It might be easier to start by reducing your publication in print, and using recycled paper (which may cost more, but it still has that “green” message to go with it…)
Collect email addresses of those who are interested in receiving the newsletter on the web, and work on growing a new subscription list. You can update the contact info of current subscribers, and gain new prospects with just a little marketing on the web.
Need help moving a newsletter to the web, or getting new subscribers interested in your publication? Contact us for a consultation to learn how Custom Copy Solutions can help!
