How to Start an Email Marketing Newsletter (Even If You’re New)
So you keep hearing the words “email marketing newsletter” but you’re not even sure what that really means.
Maybe you’re starting a blog.
Or you’re building a small online business.
Or maybe you just heard some expert say, “the money’s in the list” and you’re curious.
Good news: you’re in the right place.
In this guide, I’m going to break it down for you like we’re sitting at a coffee shop and you just asked, “Hey, what is an email marketing newsletter and why should I care?”
So let’s start with the basics and build from there.
What Is an Email Marketing Newsletter?
An email marketing newsletter is simply an email you send to a group of people who want to hear from you.
It’s not spam. It’s not begging.
It’s about showing up in someone’s inbox with something valuable: a tip, a new blog post, an exclusive offer, or even just your thoughts on something useful.
It’s your way of talking directly to your audience — without fighting algorithms or social media noise.
Just you, your message, and your reader.
If you’re brand new to all this, you should first read: 👉 What Is Email Marketing? The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide in 2025.
It’ll help you understand the foundation.
Why Email Newsletters Matter (Even in 2025)
You might think email is old-fashioned.
But here’s the truth: it still works better than most other marketing channels.
Why?
- You own your email list. No one can take it away.
- Emails reach your audience directly — no feed, no distractions.
- People check their inboxes every day.
Whether you’re a blogger, freelancer, course creator, or running a small shop — an email marketing newsletter helps you build trust and loyalty.
Okay, But What Do I Actually Send?
Great question.
Your newsletter isn’t about selling all the time.
Think of it like this: would you keep talking to a friend who only calls you when they want something?
Instead, focus on value.
That could be:
- Helpful blog content (like this post!).
- A personal story with a lesson.
- Answers to common questions your audience has.
- Behind-the-scenes updates.
- Exclusive content, discounts, or resources.
It walks you through how to plan your first few emails.
How to Start Your First Newsletter
Let’s break it down:
1. Choose an email marketing tool.
Start with something beginner-friendly.
2. Create a signup form.
This is what people will use to subscribe.
Put it on your blog, your About page, and maybe even below every blog post.
3. Offer a lead magnet.
People don’t just give emails for fun.
Offer something valuable like a checklist, short guide, or bonus content.
4. Write a welcome email.
This is the first impression.
Say thanks, deliver the freebie, and tell them what kind of content to expect.
5. Start sending regular newsletters.
You don’t need to email every day.
Once a week is perfect for beginners.
Stay consistent.
Avoid These Common Beginner Mistakes
Let’s save you some headaches.
Avoid:
- Sending too many emails too soon.
- Writing boring subject lines (nobody opens those).
- Using a free Gmail to mass email people (use proper tools).
- Skipping the unsubscribe link (it’s illegal and shady).
- Trying to be perfect instead of being helpful.
You’re not trying to write the next Harry Potter.
You’re just trying to connect.
Real Talk: Will People Even Read My Emails?
Yes — if you make them worth reading.
It’s not about writing long essays.
It’s about starting a relationship.
When people know, like, and trust you, they listen.
And when they listen, they buy, share, reply, and stay loyal.
So write like you’re helping a friend.
Final Thoughts
If you want to grow online — blogging, selling, influencing, whatever — an email marketing newsletter is your secret weapon.
You don’t need to be a tech genius.
You just need to start small and keep showing up.
Still overwhelmed? No problem.
Go back and read:
- How to Build an Email List
You got this. One email at a time.