If you're like most of us, each week you receive dozens of e-newsletters, e-zines or e-bulletins in your inbox. The trouble is, most of them are full of utter rubbish - just a thinly veiled attempt to disguise "spam" or raw advertising messages as valuable information.

On the other hand, buried within that pile of inbox rubbish is the piece of gold ... an e-newsletter that you actually look forward to receiving each month. Perhaps it's in a flashy HTML format or perhaps it's just a simple, text-based email loaded with valuable ideas.

Whatever it is, the important thing to consider is that "e-newsletters" do get read IF (and I stress if), you make them worth reading. That is, if you write them in an interesting way and you include interesting, valuable information, you will develop a loyal following.

Over time, this loyal following will turn into a significant increase in sales. I guarantee it.!

HTML or plain text?

Eight months ago, I would have answered this question with an emphatic "text, text, text", however today is a different story. Text newsletters are still definitely the best option if you are on a very low budget and can't afford the design fees for a HTML version.

There are pros and cons for each. On one hand, HTML looks more professional, BUT on the other hand, it is instantly recognised as NOT being a personalised email so there's a chance it won't get read.

The solution that is best for your situation boils down to the type of business you're in, what profile your clients fit and what do you want to achieve from an e-newsletter.

The most important thing is that it contains interesting articles, it builds a relationship and the information is in an easy to read format. More specifically:

1. Include a quick introductory paragraph which introduces subscribers to what they'll learn

2. Create enticing, curiosity building headlines

3. Include a "what's inside" section at the start of the email

4. Include a teaser paragraph which then links through the full article on your website

5. Include a list of past articles at the bottom with links to your site

6. Ensure your lead article is a very short, "quick tips" article which is housed completely within the email so people can view at least one article without clicking through to your site.

7. Involve your audience by including special offers, surveys and contents.

8. Include some links to interesting resource sites they might like.

9. Do not use it solely for promoting special offers or selling stuff. You'll burn most of your subscribers that way.

For more internet marketing and e-newsletter tips visit the Words that Sell website: http://www.wordsthatsell.com.au/adtrackz/go.php?c=wordsthatsell

Kristina is a successful and internationally acclaimed Copywriter, Internet Entrepreneur, Author and Speaker. Kristina has also pioneered many business success stories.

Words that Sell services and products include:

Secrets of Freelance Copywriting Success course Website Copywriting Mastery course Direct Mail Copywriting Mastery course Press Release writing Direct Response Copywriting Proposal writing Yellow Pages ads Website and SEO content writing Newsletter writing

http://www.wordsthatsell.com.au

About the Author

Kristina is a successful and internationally acclaimed Copywriter, Internet Entrepreneur, Author and Speaker. Kristina has also pioneered many business success stories.

http://www.wordsthatsell.com.au