A newsletter is a printed or electronic publication that is distributed to an audience, usually through email or snail mail. They are marketing tools created to inform the audience about news, events, promotions, products, or other information they may be interested in. The audience is given the choice to opt into receiving the publication for as long as they want, either for free or through a paid subscription.
What is the Purpose of a Newsletter?
Newsletters are used by companies to build a relationship with their audience. They keep the audience engaged with the brand by incentivizing them to use the service, purchase the product, or look toward the brand for their necessities. A regular reminder to the audience of the company’s existence also keeps the audience from forgetting about them or going to competitors.
A successful newsletter is one that is capable of providing some sort of value to the person it reaches. Depending on the company and the audience, this could mean information, discounts, or invitations.
What Are the Different Types of Newsletters?
Because each company will build different types of relationships with their audience, there is more than one kind of newsletter. Let’s explore the different types:
- Company newsletters: These are newsletters produced by businesses and organizations to keep employees, customers, and other stakeholders informed about news, events, and updates related to the company. For example, if a company is changing their security policies, they will send a newsletter to employees to inform them of the changes.
- Email newsletters: These are standard newsletters delivered via email.
- News and information newsletters: These newsletters are focused on delivering news and information about a specific topic or industry. For example, many news channels send their audiences newsletters, so they can receive news through methods other than their TV channel.
- Educational newsletters: These newsletters are designed to teach and inform readers about a particular subject. For example, National Geographic sends educational newsletters, so their audience can learn more about the topics they cover.
- Promotional newsletters: These newsletters are used to promote products or services, and often include discounts, special offers, or other promotions. For example, if a company wants to inform customers of a new product, they will promote it directly to them via a newsletter.
