One of the best ways to reach your true readers and fans is through your email newsletter. Only those who want to hear from you will sign up for a newsletter, so these people are the most invested in your writing and are most likely to purchase a new book when one comes out. Here are a few ways you can grow your newsletter list. I’d also love to hear what you have done in the past to build up your lists.
1) Whenever you speak or make a public appearance, pass along a clipboard with a sign-up sheet on it or use a QR code that automatically directs readers to your sign up page. Be sure to specify that the sign up sheet is for your newsletter and state that you will not use the information for anything other than your newsletter list. All you need to ask for is name and email address, but sometimes having a home state or zip code is nice so that you can tailor your email communications to specific areas. Like if you are speaking in Texas, you can send a note to your Texas readers.
2) Have a sign-up button on the home page of your website. Make it easy to find and easy to do. Do not add unnecessary steps or ask for too much information. Keep it simple. If you ask for home state or zip code, be sure this information isn’t required to complete a sign up, only requested. Email address and first name is pretty standard for what should be required. Your newsletter service will generally verify the email address for you and make sure the person with that email address really does want to sign up for your list.
3) Include a share button on your newsletter that allows fans to forward your message to friends or to share it on social media.
4) Do not email a newsletter too often or too infrequently. Once a month is plenty and don’t wait more than 3 months between newsletters. Setting a newsletter schedule is a good idea.
5) Be sure your newsletter has good content that offers something to your readers. You don’t want to lose followers after you get them to sign up. Be yourself, but in a professional way!
6) Include a link to sign up for your newsletter as part of your email signature. If you have an auto-response that goes to any fans who send fan-mail, include a link in the auto-reply.
Do you have any tips or tricks you use to build your list? Please share them with us!
(c) Copyright 2025 Books & Such, Inc.
Distraction Detox: How to Keep Writing When Everything Else Looks Easier!
What? A link to sign up for my newsletter in my email signature? Brilliant! Since I’m cozily settled in a recliner with broken bones after an accident, I have all the time in the world to make that happen. Day goals!
Thank you for your article, Rachel.
I’d also suggest keeping your byline photo (if you use one) fresh. Having the same picture for years bespeaks carelessness, and sometimes vanity.
Have a random drawing for a small Amazon or Starbucks gift card every three months or so, for those who, say, reply to a question asked in the newsletter (like, “Of my characters, which is your favourite?”)
Not a list-builder but perhaps necessary, don’t include any content that lets people identify where you live. Stalkers are not fun folks with which to deal.
This was an interesting post. Thanks Rachel!
Happy thanksgiving! I pray it was a wonderful day and filled with many blessings.
fnf