should you start a newsletter?

Believe it or not, I don't recommend newsletters to everyone who asks.

After helping 50+ businesses launch successful newsletters that drive real revenue, I've learned how to spot who will succeed and who won't. And we don't take on clients who aren't positioned for success.

Here are 7 essential questions you need to answer honestly before starting a newsletter:

1) Do you have a clearly defined target customer with consistent pain points?

Without a specific persona in mind, your content risks being scattered and ineffective.

On the other hand, when you know exactly who you're speaking to, every piece of content hits home. Your message resonates, and readers feel like you're speaking directly to them.

This connection is the foundation of a successful newsletter.

2) Are you consistently getting the same questions from customers?

Ever notice that you get the same questions over and over?

This isn't just a coincidence—it's a goldmine. These questions pinpoint exactly what your prospects are curious about and prove market demand.

Answering them in your newsletter not only provides value but positions you as the go-to expert in your field.

3) Does your industry experience frequent changes or updates?

Industries that experience frequent changes or updates provide endless content opportunities.

If staying current is a challenge for your customers, your newsletter can become their trusted resource.

They'll rely on you to keep them informed, strengthening your relationship and keeping them engaged.

4) Do you have unique expertise, opinions, or insights?

Maybe you've developed a unique method or have insider knowledge that sets you apart. Sharing these niche “hot takes” give your audience something they can't get anywhere else.

Your distinct perspective will make your newsletter stand out in a crowded inbox.

5) Is there critical knowledge that would help customers make better buying decisions?

If your audience is wrestling with uncertainty—comparing options, weighing features, or trying to figure out the right fit—a newsletter can be the compass that points them in the right direction.

Educate your audience, and they’ll turn to you when they’re ready to buy. As people grow to rely on your expertise, they’ll be far more likely to choose your solution in the long run.

6) Do you have an established sales process?

A newsletter isn't just about sharing content—it's a strategic tool in your sales funnel.

It keeps prospects warm, nurtures relationships, and guides them toward making a purchase when they're ready. (Not to mention the first-party data about who specifically is reading/clicking…)

If you have a sales process in place, a newsletter will significantly amplify its power.

7) Are you willing to play the long game?

The biggest returns come from consistent effort over time. Quick wins do happen, but the real magic comes from the long-term compounding.

Each issue you send steadily builds trust, keeps you top-of-mind, and strengthens credibility.

🛑 Reality Check

Here's the reality check: If you answered "no" to more than three of these questions, you might not be ready for a newsletter yet. And that's okay.

But if you're nodding along to most of these questions, you're exactly who we love working with.

One of our best clients only would’ve scored 4/7 of these questions when we started working together. Within 90 days, they saw a huge bump in sales. They weren't perfect, BUT they were prepared.

Ready to explore if a done-for-you newsletter is right for you? Reply with "READY" and I'll share how we can help.

Best,

Louis Shulman

Co-Founder at Orbit Marketing

P.S. The businesses that start newsletters now will have a massive advantage over those who wait. Don't let analysis paralysis cost you another month of missed opportunities.

At Orbit Marketing, we’ve helped 50+ businesses launch weekly newsletters.

Whenever you are ready, here’s how we can help you:

1. Done-For-You Weekly Newsletter - Start a weekly publication to nurture your prospects on auto-pilot, build authority, and stay top of mind. Learn more.

2. Tune Into The Orbit Marketing Podcast - Actionable tips and insights on email marketing, directly from industry leaders. Listen now.