Boring Substack Newsletter?

Not on your watch

Photo by Sterling Lanier on Unsplash

I remember the day as clear as a summer sky. 

I was sitting in a dimly lit cafe, scribbling away in my trusty notebook, brainstorming new campaign ideas for a client. The usual suspects — catchy taglines, flashy visuals, and promises of grandeur — were all laid out before me. 

But something felt amiss. It was as if I was assembling a puzzle, missing its most crucial piece.

Just then, I overheard a conversation at the neighboring table. A couple was reminiscing about a recent trip to Italy. 

Their eyes sparkled as they recounted the cobblestone streets, the aroma of freshly baked bread, and the laughter shared over glasses of wine. 

It struck me then — they weren’t just talking about a vacation; they were reliving an experience.

That’s when the light bulb went off. I realized that people don’t buy products; they buy the experiences and memories those products create. And that’s the essence of the Experience Frame technique.

The Science Behind the Story

The Experience Frame, in its essence, is about shifting the focus from the product itself to the experiences it enables. It’s about selling the sizzle, not the steak. Additionally, some pretty reliable science supports it. Studies have shown that experiences tend to bring people more lasting happiness than material possessions. Why? Because experiences create memories, and memories, as we all know, are priceless.

Substack: A Platform Ripe for Experience Framing

Now, let’s talk about Substack. For those unfamiliar, Substack is a platform that allows writers to publish their work directly to subscribers. It’s a fantastic tool for building a loyal audience and generating recurring revenue. But here’s the thing: in the crowded landscape of Substack newsletters, standing out is crucial. And that’s where the Experience Frame comes in.

Framing the Substack Experience

Instead of simply promoting your newsletter as a source of information, frame it as an experience. What kind of transformation will your subscribers undergo? What kind of community will they become a part of? What kind of memories will they create? Let me give you an example.

Imagine you’re launching a Substack newsletter about personal finance. Instead of focusing on dry financial advice, frame it as a journey towards financial freedom. Paint a picture of your subscribers achieving their dreams, buying their first homes, traveling the world, or simply enjoying the peace of mind that comes with financial security.

Experience Framing in Action: Real-World Examples

Let’s take a look at some real-world examples of how the Experience Frame can be used effectively on Substack.

• The Food Enthusiast’s Adventure: Imagine a Substack newsletter that doesn’t just share recipes but invites subscribers on a culinary adventure. Each issue could transport readers to a different corner of the world, exploring exotic flavors and unique culinary traditions. The Experience Frame here is about creating a sense of discovery and excitement.

• The Personal Growth Adventure: A Substack newsletter focused on personal development could frame itself as an adventure of self-discovery. Each issue could offer insights and tools to help subscribers unlock their full potential, overcome challenges, and live their best lives. The Experience Frame here is about empowerment and transformation.

• The Tech Innovator’s Insider Club: A Substack newsletter covering the latest tech trends could position itself as an exclusive insider club. Subscribers would gain access to cutting-edge insights, expert analysis, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the world of tech innovation. The Experience Frame here is about exclusivity and access.

The Power of Storytelling

The beauty of the Experience Frame is that it allows you to tap into the power of storytelling. And as any good copywriter knows, stories are incredibly persuasive. They engage our emotions, spark our imaginations, and make us more receptive to your message. So, instead of just listing the features of your Substack newsletter, tell a story. Paint a picture of the experience your subscribers will have. Make them feel something.

Crafting Compelling Experiences

Now, let’s get practical. How can you craft compelling experiences for your Substack subscribers? Here are a few tips:

• Know Your Audience: Understand their pain points, their desires, their dreams. What kind of experiences will resonate with them?

• Create a Unique Value Proposition: What sets your Substack apart from the competition? What kind of experience can only you offer?

• Use Vivid Language: Paint a picture with your words. Use sensory details to bring your stories to life.

• Foster a Sense of Community: Encourage interaction and engagement among your subscribers. Create a space where they feel connected and supported.

• Deliver on Your Promises: The Experience Frame is only effective if you actually deliver the experiences you promise. So, make sure your content is consistently high-quality and valuable.

The Experience Frame: A Win-Win

The Experience Frame is a win-win for both creators and subscribers. Creators get to build a loyal and engaged audience, while subscribers get to enjoy a meaningful and enriching experience. It’s a powerful tool that can help you stand out in the crowded Substack landscape and achieve your goals.