Many companies produce newsletters. But after a while, the purpose of the newsletter is lost and so is its impact. I think of a newsletter as not just a big business mailer but a way for me to put my personal message in every guests hands. I not only write a newsletter for my restaurant guests but I also go out of the way to produce a newsletter directed specifically for catering. Here are a few tips for turning your newsletter into a powerful marketing strategy.

1. Determine what your readers want– too many newsletters are used simply to boast. Although your newsletter should promote your business, it’s also a time to build your relationship with your prospects and customers. Be sure to discuss topics of interest and value for your customers and prospects.

2. Personalize your newsletter– there are hundreds of newsletters circulating on the Internet and in the mail. You need to make your newsletter stand out from the crowd. Making your newsletter uniquely you will make a difference. So be real. Feel free to include personality and emotion in your newsletter.

3. Make it look good– the visual aspect of your newsletter can make all the difference. Make it brief. (You only have the reader’s attention for a few minutes.) Use bullets and appealing headlines. And include graphics.

4. Let your readers give you their opinion– ask your readers to comment on the newsletter. They will tell you what they liked, disliked, or want to see more of. Additionally, the interaction with your readers draws you closer to a sale.

5. Include your contact information– the ultimate purpose of the newsletter is to get more customers (through name recognition, relationship building, and promoting your products). However, without your contact information, those potential customers will never appear.

Create a newsletter worthy of your company and you’ll drive your readers to future sales. Make it simple, make it short, and make it a powerful tool that reflects you and your business!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the topics I present and their link to True Restaurant Success. Please do not hesitate to share –