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"How do I start a newsletter when I don't have any subscribers?  How do I get people to join my list?"

When we've talked about email newsletter marketing in the past, questions like these are by far the most frequently asked.

Today, we're going to tell you how to get started.  This is a very actionable idea and something you can do, to further your art business, during this unusual Covid19 lock-down time. 

Remember, everybody has to start somewhere. You have to start with the connections you currently have and with things you can control.  A list and a brand are built, one person, one moment at a time.  The secret to make this work is small actions taken consistently over time.

So, if you're just getting started (or want to expand your subscriber list), here's an action you can take today:

Write down the names of 10 people you know in real life who might be interested in your art or teaching. Even better, write down the names of past buyers if you have any.

Compose an email to these people.  If you don't have the email address for everyone then, for those people, send them a text message, Facebook message, or whatever other form of 1-to-1 communication that is normal for the relationship.

Here's an example of what we want you to send.  But, please, feel free to personalize it and make it read in your own "voice."

"Hi (NAME)! Thank you sincerely for your past and continued support of my artistic endeavors!  I’m starting a new website that will showcase exciting new directions in my work and the stories behind my work.  Would you be interested in learning more about that?"

Anyone who has previously bought from you, you will have a much deeper connection with.  And, for those people,  you can reach out to them on a deeper level.   For past buyers specifically, tell them your creating an special way to alert past buyers of new work before anyone else.  Ask them if that would be of interest.

One of the keys here is to ask something like, "Would you be interested in learning more about that?"

You're not asking people to "sign up for an email list" because most people won't even know what that means.  Don't ask them to "Sign up for my newsletter."  Because, really, who wants to get yet another "newsletter?" 

At this stage, you just want to know if they want to learn more, that's it.

If they reply yes then reply with something like the following:

"Thanks for your interest!  I'll update you periodically via email.  I'll be sending primarily my latest works and their stories, and announcements about exhibits or events. You can expect no more than one email message a month from me, except, possibly, for special-event occasions."

That's it, add them to your list.  Don't send an announcement more often than you promised.

Until next time, please remember that Fortune Favors the Bold Brush.

Sincerely,

Clint Watson

BoldBrush/FASO Founder & Art Fanatic