Click here if you would rather listen to this article.
[audio:https://kendall.audioacrobat.com/download/kendall-20150329120353.mp3]I recently received this email:
“Kendall, I LOVE your newsletter. You always have something fresh to say to your readers. How do you manage to come up with new and interesting things to write about every single week? I’m struggling to get a newsletter out even once a month! Can you offer any suggestions to someone desperate for content?”
Email newsletters have been one of the top 3 best strategies I’ve ever used for marketing my business. And our tracking statistics prove it, with more people opening my ezine than any other email we send.
If the idea of publishing a newsletter feels overwhelming, it’s probably because you don’t yet have a good system for creating fresh content.
If you feel stuck trying to figure out what to write about, try using these 5 tips on creating fresh content quickly and easily. I think you’ll find they are a life saver!
Tip #1 Use A Template So You’re Not Starting From Scratch
Having a consistent format for your articles frees up your creativity so you don’t feel like you’re starting from scratch with each article. For example, the template I love using is:
- Start each article with a question or an attention grabbing statement
- Follow it with a short paragraph describing the problem
- Next, include a bullet or numbered list where you briefly share new insights, ideas or how-to tips
- Wrap up with a summary sentence that includes a call to action or a mindset tip. Simple and easy!
Tip #2 Keep An Article Idea Journal
I keep an article file on my computer that’s easy to find. Inspiration for articles is everywhere so every time a client says something that sparks an idea or I see a video or online article that’s relevant, I immediately note it in the journal. With this, you can simply pull out your journal each week when you’re looking for inspiration.
Tip #3 Workshops Are A Gold Mine For Article Ideas
Have you noticed your best and most creative ideas don’t happen when you’re in front of your computer? When I attend a workshop I start a special note sheet of article ideas. Often, the presenter will say something that sparks an idea but I’ve also had ideas divinely downloaded just by being out of my normal routine.
Tip #4 Listen To What Your Clients Are Struggling With
If all you do is jot down ideas based on what your clients are struggling with you’ll never run out of articles (or articles that get read!). Need I say more?!
Tip #5 Stop Trying To Fit In
What annoys you or makes you mad?Where do you see your ideal clients making mistakes that are easy to fix? People love articles that express a strong opinion and expressing your point of view makes you memorable.
My coaching challenge for you this week is to grab a piece of paper, title it “Article Ideas” and carry it around with you for the week with the intention of jotting down 10 new article ideas. Enjoy!