4. Avoid advertising overload. Yes, we all know, our ezine is our promotion connection to internet world. But don't take advantage of your subscribers. Minimize advertising as much as possible. One or two sponsor ads, and a handful of classified ads (no more than 10!) are about all any reader can handle. And beware of trying to pawn off advertising for all your informational content. It might work on some newbies, but you're not going to pull it over on more experienced reader who is looking for real information. At least, not if it is all they are getting.

This is an important point, especially if you write your own articles. The most published and anticipated articles are those that contain NO personal promotional links whatsover, except in your bio or resource box that you include with article.

Think about how its done on television, radio, and in all hard copy magazines. The advertising is there, no doubt. And there is usually more than we appreciate, but we accept it and tolerate it, knowing it pays their bills. But in between ads, we are more than likely reading that magazine, watching that program, or listening to that station because we are getting something we can use and/or enjoy.

Publishing an Ezine is an important part of marketing any internet site or Ebusiness. It's not an easy task, or something to take lightly. It takes loads of time, lots of research and/or writing, and genuine dedication to your subscribers! Just give them information that is useful, entertaining, inspiring, or of course, all three! They'll anticipate arrival of your latest issue, and keep on coming back for more!

After you have chosen a topic, stated your purpose, and determined your audience, it is time to start outlining your article. This will help you to see exactly what you want to develop in your article and what details are needed to support each main idea. Don't worry about it looking like a final polished work. Just outline your article as follows:

Introduction The relationship of ezines and subscribers The importance of subscribers Purpose What article will provide for reader Methods How to obtain more subscribers Free Ads in other ezines Paid ads in other ezines Ezine Directories Announcement lists Pay for subscribers services Subscribers for ads Ad Swaps Writing articles Summary

Now that you have your outline, you are ready to begin writing. Don't let that frighten you. Just write using your topic sentence to begin first paragraph and continue from there. When you need more information on a subject, use your search service on internet and you will find all you need. Just keep writing. Don't worry about quality. You can take care of that during editing period. If necessary, add links to where information my be found, e.g., ezine directors.

With your first draft finished, it is time for editing. Go over every sentence to make sure it is complete and coherent. Edit every paragraph to make sure it ties in with your outline. Do a complete edit and rewrite as necessary. Check for misspelled words.

Now rewrite your complete article and proofread it carefully. If necessary, let someone else read it. When you are satisfied with final product, pat yourself on back. You are on your way to becoming a professional.

__________________________________________ Luther Powell (Papalou) is publisher of "A Poor Man's Newsletter." It contains tips and articles on various writing and marketing techniques. You may subscribe to it at: Papalou@bellsouth.net?subject=Subscribe