🧰 👋 Hey again, CJ here (with ChatGPT on copy duty).
Let’s talk about one of the smartest things you can do for your blog’s future: setting up an email newsletter. A good newsletter helps you stay connected with readers without depending on social media algorithms, and it can eventually support your blog’s growth, income, or community.
Don’t worry — this post keeps it beginner-friendly, no jargon or tech headaches.
✉️ Why Start a Newsletter?
- You own the list — not a social network
- You can share updates, freebies, and content directly
- It helps you build real relationships
- Later, it can help with affiliate income or product launches
Think of it as your blog’s lifeline to loyal readers.
🔧 Step 1: Choose a Free (or Open Source) Email Tool
For beginners, start with a tool that’s easy to use. You can always upgrade later.
| Tool | Cost | Why Try It |
|---|---|---|
| EmailOctopus | Free up to 2,500 subs | Simple, no fuss, works with WordPress |
| SendFox | Free with limits | Blog-focused, owned by AppSumo |
| Mailerlite | Free up to 1,000 | Clean design, great for beginners |
| Listmonk | Free, self-hosted | Open source, if you’re tech-savvy |
📌 CJ’s tip: I’m using EmailOctopus right now — it’s clean and easy to link with WordPress.
📬 Step 2: Create a Signup Form or Widget
Most email tools give you an HTML embed code or a WordPress plugin to create a signup form.
Put your form:
- In your blog sidebar
- At the bottom of every post
- On a dedicated Subscribe or Newsletter page
✏️ Keep your signup message clear and appealing:
“Get free blogging tips, tools, and updates from CJ – no spam, ever.”
💌 Step 3: Write a Welcome Email
This is the first message your reader sees — make it count!
What to include:
- A friendly thank-you
- What they’ll get (ex: weekly tips, free tools, etc.)
- A link to a helpful blog post or your toolkit
- Your name + site + contact
📌 Set this up as an automated welcome email in your newsletter dashboard.
🔁 Step 4: Plan Your First 3 Newsletters
Don’t overthink this. Here’s a quick format:
- Intro note from you (keep it warm and personal)
- 1–2 blog post links they may have missed
- One tip or tool of the week
- Optional CTA (comment, share, reply)
Start with 1 email every 2 weeks, then go weekly if you enjoy it.
🧠 Bonus: What Makes a Newsletter People Want to Open?
- A subject line that promises value or curiosity
- A personal, friendly tone
- Useful tips, not just promos
- A predictable schedule (people like knowing when to expect it)
✨ TL;DR – How to Start Your Newsletter
| Step | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Pick a free tool | Get started without cost |
| Add a signup form | Start building your list |
| Write a welcome email | Make a strong first impression |
| Send useful newsletters | Build connection + keep readers coming back |
🌿 Final Word from CJ (and ChatGPT)
Starting a newsletter might feel like one more task — but it’s one of the most valuable things you can do.
You don’t need a big list to make it worth it. Just start simple, be consistent, and treat subscribers like trusted friends.
We’ll help you build it step-by-step. 💌
Discover more from Empower yourself: build, own, and share your true voice.
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