Creating an HTML Newsletter
By Archie Glikakis
What it is.
In a nutshell, an HTML newsletter is a web page that is transmitted via some email service. Because this format incorporates graphics and color, HTML newsletters are more attention-getting than plain text newsletters.
Better in every way.
HTML Newsletters are much better than regular text based newsletters and here are the four major reasons why;
(1) Have a higher click-through rate (more readers click on the links contained within your newsletter that link back to your site.)
(2) Permit you to track your open rate. (determine how many readers actually open your email newsletter.)
(3) Help you continue to establish your brand in front of your readers, as it may carry the same look as your website or other marketing materials you may use.
(4) Are read more often than plain text newsletters simply because of the eye-catching graphics.
Here are 5 steps you can follow to make the creation of your email newsletter quick and easy:
1. Determine your software needs.
There are several website design and HTML editing programs out there to help you design your newsletter template. If all you plan to do is create a newsletter, there’s no need to spend lots of money. I
recommend that you look for an easy-to-use HTML editor. There are plenty out there just do a Search and you’ll soon find some really good Free ones.
2. Create your newsletter template.
Your template will probably be a simple table format that incorporates your logo and a few other graphics. Your newsletter should not exceed 600 pixels in width, as you want to ensure that your readers won’t have to scroll across the screen to read your newsletter. And, in the case of HTML newsletter, size does matter. A newsletter that is large in size (greater than 25 MB) is tough to deliver through many email systems. Less than 20 KB is optimal for the greatest chance of delivery to your subscribers.
3. Create interesting engaging content.
This is by far the most crucial step. It is here where your marketing skills are put to the test. You have to think like a sales man. Your newsletter has to catch your readers attention. And furthermore you need three key ingrediants to make it perfect. The reader wants to know certain things and you need to deliver those things. First, define clearly what you are selling. Second, what does it cost. And Third, how to buy it.
4. Finalize your newsletter content.
Check your content for typos, punctuation mistakes, and grammar mistakes. Newsletters that have those appear unprofessional. Read and re-read your content. Make sure it sounds like a sales pitch but not a force it down your throat one. Then check it again and read it again. Does it sell you? If you answer yes then you are ready to send it out.
5. Upload the newsletter.
In most cases, this means you need to copy and paste the HTML coding from your editor into your broadcast program. Finding the right one is tricky. There are a few of them out there. Search for them using the key words auto responders or email publishers. Look carefully at the services offered. You will find a package that is right for you.
And don’t forget to personalize. When a subject line of an email contains your first name, doesn’t that quickly grab your attention? If your broadcast service permits you to personalize either the subject line of your broadcast or the content of your broadcast, take advantage of this feature and use it! This is an easy strategy to increase your newsletter’s open rate.
So get out there and start creating and broadcasting. If you follow these simple steps you will not only create awesome newsletters but you will also increase sales and demand for your product.
Archie Glikakis
SEO Consultant
Position Front Page
SEO Services Thailand
Archie Glikakis is a search engine optimization consultant for Position Front Page. His expertise in this field, has lead him to write many articles and he is always in forefront when large clients come along. He also does some freelance work for a division of that same company, Position First Page.
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