Ezine Secrets to Success

Get Readers' Attention Ezines have quickly become highly effective online marketing tools. Their sheer numbers are overwhelming evidence of their popularity. Each week, dedicated readers' access hundreds of thousands of ezines-- covering just about every topic you can think of--. This explosion of ezines creates a smorgasbord for readers, and competition for publishers. Often, people sign up for a number of ezines, but don't read them all. Some customers will decide whether an ezine is worth reading based on one issue. So, you can see how important it is that you every issue is entertaining and interesting. Remember that by keeping readers, you are building and strengthening relationships with customers. When your ezine consistently gives readers information they can use to improve their lives, you become a trusted source. Meet Their Needs It stands to reason that content is what makes or breaks an ezine. The first secret to producing a popular, successful ezine is to give readers what they need. How do you know what they need? Stop and think of who your readers really are. Whether your ezine is about financial planning or fly-fishing, your readers are likely novices in this field, while you are an expert. Think back to when you were just starting out, and make a list of things you had to learn "the hard way." What kinds of articles can you write to help them avoid mistakes and find success sooner? Helpful hints, quick tips, product and book reviews are enthusiastically devoured by ezine readers. They subscribe to your ezine in hopes of quickly learning how to solve or avoid problems. Interviews with experts in the field offer readers extra insight and increase your ezine's reputation. Let's take an example from a real life, my own. I publish an ezine targeting writers. Since I am a writer, I know the struggles they face, whether they are experienced or just starting out. Articles that give tips on busting through writer's block, techniques to improve productivity, and lots of helpful organization hints are at the top of my to-publish list. I also might review different software, either strictly writing-related or more general business oriented (for many, writing is a business, not a hobby). Staying On Top I make a point of keeping on top of what is happening in the writing business, so that my ezine gives readers up-to-date or even trendsetting information. I do this not only by reading other websites and ezines, but also by communicating with my subscribers. You should do the same, either by prominent placement of an announcement asking for feedback, or by sending a separate email to everyone on your list. If you take the latter route, be sure to have a few specific questions ("which segment is most helpful to you?" "do you consider yourself a novice, experienced, or very experienced in this field") as well as an open invitation to share ideas on how you can meet their needs. Every moment you spend improving your ezine is time well-spent. Your grateful readers will show their appreciation by reading your ezine and purchasing your products.