Substack publishers can learn from 400+ newsletter pros’ data by doubling down on personalization, embracing AI, and using social media strategically for growth—not just relying on email. Here are actionable steps for Substack creators looking to stay competitive in this fast-changing environment:
1. Leverage LinkedIn and Facebook Distribution
- Prioritize sharing each edition on LinkedIn and Facebook, where 52% and 50% of creators respectively see greater reach and engagement than through email alone.
- Build dedicated audience segments on these platforms and engage in newsletter-promoting discussions or groups relevant to your subject area.
Here’s the type of content readers prefer most:
2. Invest in Personalization and Demographics
- Actively tailor your content strategy based on your subscriber demographics—formatting, publishing schedule, and even tone should reflect the preferences of your core readers.
- Publishers who neglect personalization see far lower revenue; among those not personalizing, 23% make $0/month and 43% make only $1–$100/month.
- Take advantage of Substack’s analytics and segmentation to experiment with A/B tests and reader surveys to guide your personalization efforts.
3. Use Direct Referral Strategies
- Foster direct recommendations and referrals by encouraging readers to share your newsletter with their peers or on their networks—this is cited as the single most effective subscriber growth tactic by 42% of successful newsletter pros.
- Launch referral or co-marketing campaigns, partnering with other Substack writers or brands to tap into new audiences.
4. Integrate AI for Efficiency
- 28% of newsletter creators use AI for brainstorming and content planning, and 25% for content creation—saving one to three hours per week.
- Try tools for drafting, outlining, or even generating images for editions, allowing you more time to focus on strategy and deeper reporting.
- Keep experimenting: 23% of creators not using AI plan to start within the next year, and 64% believe newsletters will be AI-generated by 2030. Being an early adopter can be a competitive edge.
5. Prioritize Mixed-Media and Authentic Content
- Newsletters with strong opinions, industry insights, and hot takes consistently have the best open and click rates, don’t shy away from voice and originality.
- Combine text with visuals or video for above-average engagement, using Substack’s multimedia support.
6. Focus on Performance Metrics
- Track core metrics: Views (58%), clicks (35%), and engagement (30%) matter most. Use Substack’s analytics to monitor these numbers and optimize with every edition.
Here are the average reported rates for key newsletter performance metrics:
7. Diversify Revenue Streams and Prepare for Competition
- Monetization is shifting: The leading method is sales of products, services, or memberships directly through the newsletter.
- Profit growth is up, but 55% of publishers expect it will get harder—not easier—to sustain newsletter revenue in the coming years.
- Test new sponsored content, memberships, exclusive access, or paid community features on Substack as part of your growth plan.
Success in 2025 means being platform-agnostic for distribution, relentlessly personalizing for your audience, embracing AI in smart ways, and focusing on community-driven subscriber growth. Consistency and authenticity, paired with smart tech adoption, will keep you ahead of competitors as newsletters become central to digital media.
Originally posted on RETAILBOSS Substack Newsletter on November 1, 2025.
