Newsletter Best Practices

Structure - make sure readers can quickly and confidently find the information they need

• • Make sure your newsletter is the appropriate length

  • Organize the content so that it flows logically

    • Keep the most important information at the beginning, followed by less prevalent details

  • Break content into short sections that reflect natural stopping points

  • Use bullet points to break up text

  • Write headings that help readers predict what is coming up

  • Make it mobile phone friendly - keep it short and visually appealing

Accessibility and Plain Language - make it easy for your readers to consume your content

• • Use a template to make use of white space, margins, and graphics to create a more engaging experience for your readers and to ensure 508 compliance

  • Use plain language

    • Aim for a reading level of eighth grade or below - everyone can appreciate an easy read

    • Keep sentences short and concise

    • Use a conversational tone and avoid jargon

  • Make sure images have alt text

  • Use descriptive links - don't ask people to "click here"

  • For more information see Writing Resources. 

Write for Your Audience - make sure you're writing your newsletter for your audience and not for you

• • Make it interesting and relevant for you readers

  • Consider if you are you sending information you want to send, or information they want to receive

  • Start with main points that are important to your readers

Make it Actionable - include what people can do with the information you send them

• • Sign up for a service

  • Learn/read more

  • Volunteer

Be Consistent - send your newsletter on the regular schedule

Proofread before sending

See how VDH updated its Healthcare Providers Newsletter with best practices to increase readership.