🍴3 tips for making your newsletter feel more personal

They're simple, but effective.

Author

Maria Marchewka
February 28, 2025

Sponsored by

406 words ⬇️

Do you ever feel a little apprehension before creating and sharing something online?

I feel it sometimes when I publish my newsletters.

My goal is to create helpful content and continually validate my parking spot in your inbox.

The other day, I was looking for inspiration and came across a blog on Matt McGarry’s website, Newsletter Operator.

In this article, he shares ideas on how to write stuff even if you’re a bad writer.

One idea stuck out, and it’s perfect for newsletter writers.

This writing tip challenged my occasional digital stage fright (is that a thing?) because it made me realize that while newsletters are a one-to-many communication channel, they can feel like a one-to-one exchange if you do it right.

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But, as is with most tips, it’s easier said than done.

So, I took his advice a step further with three ways to put it into practice:

  1. Use your imagination.

Don’t just pretend you hit the “Compose” button on Gmail; actually do it.

Sometimes, I clam up when I open the composer on beehiiv.

When this happens, I literally open up Gmail and start writing my content there.

It takes the pressure off and helps me pretend I’m writing to one person.

When you try this exercise, think about:

  • The tone you’d use when talking to one person.

  • The angle you’d taken when sharing your thoughts.

Try to truly picture the person on the receiving end of your email. This simple (and maybe strange) exercise helps you transform your content from formal to friendly.

  1. Use “you” statements.

You’ll love this one because it’s so simple.

Avoid blanket statements and address your readers by saying “you.”

When people see “you” phrases, it almost acts as a signal that grabs their attention and makes a personal connection.

  1. Encourage engagement.

End your emails with a question or a poll.

Make it clear you actually want to hear back from readers, and respond personally.

These exchanges deepen your connection with your readers and add another layer to the fact that your newsletter is a one-to-one communication.

How do you make your newsletters feel personal? I’d love to know (seriously.)!

PS: This week, I was featured in WordStream’s list of top marketing newsletters! 😀

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