How to monetise your Substack without feeling salesy

First comes heart, then comes hustle.

Let’s talk about something that makes a lot of creators squirm: Getting paid.

If you’re a writer, author, or content creator using Substack, you’ve probably asked yourself at some point:

• When should I monetise?

• Will people actually pay me for my writing?

• How do I do it without sounding obnoxious and salesy?

I know I certainly did when I moved to Substack after years of blogging on a WordPress site and barely remembering to send out a newsletter via my Mailchimp.

For seven years, I hadn’t charged for the content I posted on the above sites, offering advice to publishing hopefuls and aspirational writers. But when I lost my job last year and I was left with no income and no plan, I had to think on my feet. Or, on my fingertips.

I’d previously been a freelance journalist, on-and-off, since 2017 to 2020. I’d managed to pitch an article on being made redundant to Stylist within 24 hours of getting my P45 - that was satisfying, I have to admit! - so I thought: why not try to monetise my writing?

I was already heading naturally into the world of freelancing, and if I can charge a day rate to publishers and a coaching fee to authors, then why shouldn’t I put the content I’m providing - the same content I often supply to those paying publishers and authors - behind a paywall?

But then came the next question: why would readers want to pay me for my advice, book recommendations and life updates?

Good news: there is a way to do it that feels natural, authentic and - dare I say it - fun?!

To find out more, though, I recommend treating yourself to 40% off the annual subscription to Market Your Marketing - see above! - for just £21, you’ll get full access to my Substack for an entire year. That means:

• A twice-weekly newsletter including details on growing your audience, developing your career, developing your writing and achieving success as a writer, publisher and/or both. Information I regularly provide to Big Five publishing companies, bestselling authors and independent businesses for a much larger fee!

• Access to exclusive messaging chats, comments and the chance to contact me whenever you require advice, mentoring or would like to request specific content.

• Discounted rates on events, books, and coaching because investing in your career shouldn’t break the bank.

• VIP access to Market Your Marketing events with exclusive networking opportunities, insider tips, and workshops you won’t find anywhere else.

And more! I’m always adding new perks based on what you need, so subscribe for more now.