As writers, we’re always asking the same question: how do I find more readers? You might already have a website, maybe a few social media accounts, maybe even a book or two out in the world. But reaching the right people—and keeping them engaged—isn’t easy. That’s where Substack comes in.
You’ve probably heard the name tossed around, but what exactly is it? At its simplest, Substack is a platform that lets you send out email newsletters. But it’s more than that—it’s also a blog, a publishing tool, and even a way to make money from your writing. Think of it as a direct pipeline between you and your readers. See this week’s video to learn more…
Why Substack Works So Well for Writers
Simply put, Substack strips away all the noise. On social media, you’re constantly battling algorithms. You post something brilliant, and it gets buried under cat memes (not that we don’t love them) and political arguments. With Substack, your writing goes straight into your reader’s inbox. If someone subscribes, they see your work. It’s that simple.
Best of all, you own your audience. Unlike Instagram, where you’re really just borrowing followers, your email list is yours to keep. That means you’re building a lasting relationship with people who actually want to hear from you.
How Substack Can Help You Grow
So, what can Substack do for you if your goal is to grow your audience and bring readers back to your main site or your books? A lot, actually. Here are some of the highlights:
- Consistency builds trust. When you show up in someone’s inbox on a regular schedule—weekly, biweekly, monthly—you create a rhythm. Over time, readers begin to look forward to your posts.
- It’s a discovery tool. Substack has its own network of readers who browse, subscribe, and recommend newsletters. By being part of that ecosystem, you put yourself in front of people actively searching for new voices.
- It’s a launchpad. Every newsletter you send can include links back to your website, your new book release, or your other publications. The platform becomes the bridge between your latest work and the readers who want to support it.
- It builds community. Readers can comment, reply, and even join discussion threads. You’re not just broadcasting into the void—you’re starting conversations.
Making Substack Work for You
The good news is you don’t need to be a tech wizard to get started. Substack handles the design, the hosting, and the delivery. Your main job is simply to write. A few tips to keep in mind:
- Pick a focus. Readers love knowing what they’ll get when they subscribe. Will you share personal essays, behind-the-scenes looks at your writing process, serialized fiction, or maybe book recommendations?
- Be consistent, not perfect. It’s better to send a thoughtful piece once a month than to burn yourself out trying to post three times a week.
- Engage your readers. Ask questions at the end of your posts, encourage replies, and invite feedback. People stick around when they feel like part of the journey.
Substack and Your Bigger Goals
Remember, Substack isn’t just about the newsletter itself. It’s about the bigger picture: bringing new readers into your world. Someone who discovers you on Substack might go on to visit your website, follow your social channels, buy your book, or tell their friends about your work. The more touchpoints you create with readers, the stronger your audience grows.
Substack just happens to be one of the most direct, no-frills ways to make that happen.
Below are links to a few pages we enjoy and that you might also find useful.
How to Start a Substack Newsletter by Karen Cherry
How to Make a Great “About” Page by Karen Cherry
Simply Write by Polly Campbell
Lastly, here is the product page to Nadja’s Old Scratch Press collection:
Final Thoughts
Growing an audience takes time, patience, and a little strategy. But Substack makes it easier by giving you a tool that’s simple, personal, and built around connection. If you’ve been looking for a way to cut through the noise and get your words in front of people who actually want to read them, Substack is worth trying.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not about algorithms or follower counts—it’s about building real relationships with readers who care about your voice. And that’s exactly what Substack helps you do.
Looking for more guidance? You’ll find additional resources on our Free Author Resources page. Discover more great content on the Current Words YouTube Channel.
See you next time!