Reginaldo Osnildo
Learn how to increase email open rates, get more replies, and build real relationships with your readers on Substack. Engagement = trust.
Hey again! Reginaldo Osnildo here.
Let’s be honest—clicks and followers are cool, but email engagement is where the magic happens.
Think about it:
- Opens mean your subject line worked
- Clicks mean your content resonated
- Replies mean you’re building real relationships
And when readers feel connected to you?
They’re more likely to support your work, share your newsletter, and stick around for the long haul.
So today, I’m going to walk you through exactly how to boost your email engagement on Substack—even if you’re just starting out.
Let’s dive in.
1. Write Subject Lines That Spark Curiosity (Without Being Clickbait)
Your subject line is the door to your content.
Here’s what works:
- Ask a question: “What’s really going on with downtown parking?”
- Use urgency: “3 local updates you need before Friday”
- Be specific: “New café, local hero story, and school board news”
- Get personal: “Why I almost didn’t send this issue…”
Keep it under 50 characters when possible. Test different styles and watch what gets opened most.
2. Use a Friendly “From” Name
Make sure your email comes from:
- Your real name (e.g. Reginaldo Osnildo)
- Or a combination like Reginaldo from [Newsletter Name]
People are way more likely to open emails from someone they know—or feel like they know.
Pro tip: Stick to the same sender name every time to build recognition and trust.
3. Make Your First Line Count
The first line of your newsletter (aka the preview text) appears in inboxes before someone clicks.
Make it compelling.
Instead of:
“This week’s edition includes a few updates…”
Try:
“I almost skipped this issue—but then something amazing happened downtown.”
Use that first sentence to hook, not just explain.
4. Add a Personal Touch to Every Email
Even if you’re covering hard news, always sound like a human, not a press release.
- Use conversational language
- Share how the story affected you
- Include “you” and “we” more than “I”
- Add a personal note in the intro or footer
People don’t just subscribe for facts—they subscribe for connection.
5. End With a Question or Invitation
Want replies? Ask for them.
End your emails with:
“What do you think? Hit reply and let me know.”“Have you seen something similar in your neighborhood?”“Want me to cover a specific topic next week?”
Readers often want to respond—they just need permission.
6. Add Clickable Calls-to-Action (But Keep It Simple)
Don’t overload your newsletter with links.
Instead:
- Highlight 1–2 main actions: “Read more,” “Reply,” “Share”
- Use clear buttons or bolded text
- Link to your paid post (if you have one) near the top
Keep your reader focused—and avoid decision fatigue.
7. Use Visual Breaks and Scannable Formatting
People skim newsletters—so make it easy:
- Use headings and subheadings
- Break paragraphs every 2–3 lines
- Add bullet points or numbered lists
- Use bold for important info
- Drop in a photo or pull quote every few scrolls
Clean design = higher engagement.
8. Send at the Right Time for Your Audience
Try:
- Tuesday or Wednesday mornings
- Around 8–10 AM local time
- Avoid Friday afternoons or late Sundays
But more importantly: test your timing.
Your audience might surprise you. Substack shows open rates—use that data!
9. Highlight Reader Replies and Contributions
Want more replies? Show that you read them.
- Feature a “Reader Quote of the Week”
- Respond to a comment in the next issue
- Thank someone publicly for a correction or story tip
This makes your audience feel heard and valued.
It also encourages others to speak up next time.
10. Track What’s Working—Then Do More of It
Substack shows you:
- Open rates
- Click rates
- Unsubscribes
Review your top-performing posts:
- What was the subject line?
- What kind of story was it?
- Was it personal? Visual? Breaking news?
Use that feedback loop to double down on what engages.
Want the Full Guide to Substack Strategy and Sustainability?
If you want to build a newsletter that not only informs—but connects, grows, and thrives—then this is your next step:
👉 Local Journalism on Substack: How to Create a Low-Cost, Monetizable News Site and Newsletter Network
Inside, you’ll get:
- Templates to boost open rates and clicks
- Reader engagement formulas
- Tools to turn casual readers into loyal supporters
- Systems to publish regularly without burning out
- A 30-day action plan to launch, grow, and monetize your newsletter
This isn’t about inboxes. It’s about impact.
Let’s make your newsletter one they look forward to opening every time.