Newsletters that will get read

Course summary

Newsletters can be the backbone of a communications strategy but all too often they fail to hit the mark. With so many hard-copy and electronic newsletters being produced, it is vital that yours stands out from the crowd. Delivering information and key messages in a lively style is central to attracting - and keeping - readers.


Course outline

This practically-based course looks at all aspects of newsletter planning, writing and production. Over the day you will cover:

• audience
• categories of content
• the role of the editor and commissioning copy
• giving authors feedback
• sentences and paragraphs
• style and tone
• messages
• brevity and copy structure
• writing headers
• essential differences between hard copy and electronic versions
• best use of pictures and illustrations
• editing, subediting and proofreading
• house style and non-discriminatory language
• decisions about design
• distribution and evaluation

The course combines training sessions with practical exercises in small groups, where participants are encouraged to share experiences and problems. If your organisation already produces a newsletter, please bring a copy with you.
"The trainer was excellent. I was pleasantly surprised as to how much I have learnt." RP, London Sports Forum for Disabled People
"Very good. Well presented and comprehensive. A lot of useful advice." ET, London Borough of Camden
"Excellent. Really made me think and gave me new ideas. Lots of tips to take away." HS, Westminster City council


Who is this course for?

Anyone who has to write and produce newsletters for internal or external audiences. It is equally useful for those new to producing newsletters and those who are revamping an existing newsletter and are looking for some fresh ideas.


What will this course help me do: learning outcomes?

This course will help you develop a great newsletter for your organisation - electronic or paper. It will give you lots of tips for using pictures, attention grabbing headlines and designing for impact.