Shirk

However, even though it is so easy to write a newsletter entry, I am sure there aren't too many of you who are actually making the most of the space you have to capture the attention of those valuable subscribers!

Remember, email has been abused over the last few years, as it is free and wide open to SPAMMERS of all descriptions. If people are being spammed (and most are) then you have to use a service with a relevant theme and the credibility to go with it.

If you choose to use a service with a quality opt-in list, you know those people have requested the newsletter and they are aware of the associated terms, conditions and relevant privacy policy.

This gives you (the advertiser) the assurance of not only knowing that all of the recipients are relevant to your industry sector, but they are also attaching a value to the content within the newsletter.

So, if you are going to use this kind of service, there are three Fundamental points you must bear in mind:

1. Include a catchy heading
2. Offer something of real value
3. Define a clear call to action

You see, most companies treat newsletter entries as a cut down and simplified version of a PR story - this is not the way to go!

Your entry should have a catchy headline, punchy text and a call to action to get people to click on your links.

A short version of a case study about a company using your website to find photographers/suppliers will not provide the impact you are looking for.

So, how about this:

ALL the photographic and creative contacts you will ever need

We have now introduced amazing new functionality and content that ensures a complete and definitive guide to photographic and creative contacts on the web. If you are a publisher, ad agency or involved in the advertising industry, take a look today. It's free to join and we offer an unrivalled level of quality tools and resources.

Of course, this entry is just an example, but you can see why the 'sales message' approach, including a 'call to action' actually works. After all, you clearly have to offer something of value to entice people to click on your link.

Remember, a call to action can make the difference between a flop and a success, so take that all important 25 minutes out and write a good entry!

Andrew Long is an advertising sales consultant and expert in the field of generating revenues from websites and other media. He offers media companies a bespoke solution to selling advertising and making money from their websites and other media. This article can be used on other relevant websites but a reference to the author and a live web link to http://www.selling-advertising.com MUST be displayed. For more information about Andrew's services please go to http://www.selling-advertising.com or http://www.myadbase.com/cgi-bin/help.cgi?help_entry_id=22