In Episode 31 of the Paywall Podcast, Pete and Tyler discuss how to quickly update your existing newsletter into a value-add for your paid subscribers. It’s easy and you already have everything you need to make it happen and automate the workflow.
In this podcast, the focus is on how publishers can easily create and offer a premium newsletter to their paid subscribers. Here’s a summary of the key points:
Why Premium Newsletters Matter
- Targeted Messaging: Publishers need to separate their free readers from paid subscribers. By segmenting newsletters, they can provide more relevant content and messaging to each group, increasing the chances of converting free users to paid subscribers.
- Free vs. Paid Newsletter: Free newsletters should include article excerpts and calls to action that encourage users to upgrade. Paid newsletters, in contrast, should provide more value, such as full-text articles or early delivery of content.
Benefits of a Premium Newsletter
- Adds Value to Subscriptions: Offering a premium newsletter as part of a paid subscription creates a compelling reason for readers to upgrade. It’s a clear, convenient package that delivers content directly to subscribers.
- Monetization and Upselling: Paid newsletters can include upsell opportunities, such as donations or promotions for other products. Subscribers are more likely to engage with these offers since they are already invested in the content.
Easy Setup and Automation
- Automate the Process: Using email tools like Mailchimp or our flowletter, publishers can automate sending both free and paid newsletters by tagging users appropriately (e.g., “free” or “paid”).
- Full Text for Paid Subscribers: Paid subscribers can receive the full article text in their email, improving convenience and enhancing the subscriber experience.
Recommendations for Publishers
- Start Simple: Publishers who don’t have a newsletter should begin with an RSS automated solution to ensure they are regularly delivering content to their audience, even if it’s a basic setup. Over time, more customized newsletters can be developed.
The episode underscores the value of newsletters in driving engagement, converting subscribers, and increasing revenue, and provides actionable steps for publishers to start or improve their newsletter strategy.
