Why Newsletters and Online Communities Still Matter
Can I share something that’s been on my mind lately? In a world where our phones buzz constantly with ads and our inboxes are stuffed with “LIMITED TIME OFFERS!!!”, I’ve discovered something pretty amazing — sometimes the best way to connect is also the simplest.
You know those emails you actually look forward to reading? The ones that feel like getting a letter from a friend? Or those online communities where you feel truly understood? That’s what I want to talk about today — how newsletters and online communities can create real, meaningful connections in our hyper-digital world.
Let’s start with newsletters because there’s something really special about them. Think about it — when someone lets you into their inbox, they’re essentially inviting you into their digital living room. It’s intimate, it’s personal, and it deserves respect.
I learned this lesson the hard way with my first newsletter. I started out thinking I needed to sound “professional” and “businesslike.” You know the type — lots of fancy words and formal language. But then I got an email from a subscriber that changed everything. She wrote, “I love your expertise, but I feel like I’m reading a textbook instead of hearing from you.”
That hit home. So I started writing like I talk — sharing stories from my day, admitting when things went wrong, celebrating small wins. And you know what happened? People started writing back. Real conversations began. Instead of just broadcasting information, we were building a community.
Here’s what I’ve learned makes newsletters actually worth reading:
First, write like you’re catching up with a friend over coffee. Drop the corporate speak — nobody wants to “leverage synergistic opportunities” with their friends, right? Share your experiences, your challenges, your “aha” moments. When I started sharing the story of how I completely messed up a client project (and how I fixed it), my response rate tripled overnight.
Next, be consistent but not overwhelming. Whether it’s weekly chats or monthly catch-ups, let your readers know when to expect you. It’s like having a regular coffee date — it builds rhythm and anticipation.
And here’s something that transformed my newsletter — I started ending each one with a genuine question. Not “What do you think?” but specific questions like “What’s the biggest challenge you’re facing in your business right now?” or “What’s one thing you wish someone had told you when you were starting out?” The responses have been incredible — real stories from real people facing real challenges.
Now, let’s talk about online communities because they’re like the neighbourhood pubs of the internet — places where people gather to share, learn, and support each other. Whether it’s a subreddit, a Facebook group, or a professional forum, these spaces have their own culture and rhythm.
I remember joining my first online community for small business owners. I was so eager to contribute that I jumped in immediately with advice on everything. Big mistake. The old-timers basically ignored me until I took a step back, listened, and learned how the community actually worked.
Here’s what I’ve discovered about being a genuine part of these communities:
First, just listen. Spend time understanding what matters to people, what questions keep coming up, and what kind of support they’re looking for. It’s like joining a new friend group — you wouldn’t walk in and immediately start giving everyone life advice, right?
Share your experiences, not your sales pitch. When someone asks about handling difficult clients, I tell them about my own struggles and what worked for me. No “book a consultation” links, no promotional angles — just honest sharing from one community member to another.
And here’s something beautiful I’ve noticed — when you genuinely help others, they remember. I’ve received messages months after helping someone saying, “Remember when you helped me with X? Well, I’ve got a project now and I’d love to work with you.” Those are the best kinds of connections because they’re built on trust and genuine value.
You know what’s really cool? When you bring newsletters and community participation together, magic happens. The questions people ask in communities become newsletter topics. Newsletter subscribers join the communities and add their voices. It becomes this wonderful cycle of connection and growth.
I’ll be honest — this approach takes more time than blasting out promotional emails or dropping your business card in every online forum. But here’s the thing: we’re not just building a business, we’re building relationships. We’re creating connections that last.
Remember that subscriber who told me my newsletter felt like a textbook? She’s now one of my closest business friends. We’ve never met in person, but we’ve shared struggles, celebrated wins, and helped each other grow. That’s the real power of authentic connection in the digital age.
So if you’re feeling lost in the noise of digital marketing, try taking a step back. Write like you talk. Share what you know. Help where you can. The rest will follow naturally.
And hey, I’d love to hear your thoughts on this. What’s been your experience with newsletters or online communities? What makes you actually want to read an email or participate in a discussion? Let’s keep this conversation going.
Originally published at https://dominusmarkham.com on January 13, 2025.
