How to Leverage Substack as a Content Creator and Reader

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What Is Substack?
3. Why Use Substack as a Content Creator?
4. How to Start Using Substack as a Writer
5. How to Use Substack as a Reader
6. Best Practices for Maximizing Substack
7. Conclusion
8. FAQ

Introduction

Imagine a platform that allows writers to publish their original work, connect deeply with their audience, and monetize their content without the strings attached. Enter Substack, a growing hub for established authors, upcoming writers, and avid readers alike. With its unique blend of a blog, magazine, and newsletter platform, Substack promises to revolutionize how creators share their work and how readers consume it. If you're a writer frustrated by the limitations of traditional social media or overwhelmed by managing complex email newsletters, this post is for you. Dive in to learn how Substack can become your new favorite writing and reading platform.

What Is Substack?

Substack is an online platform specifically designed for content creators who want to publish their work and make money through paid reader subscriptions. Established in 2017, Substack allows writers to earn approximately 90% of their subscription revenue while the platform takes a 10% cut. This model encourages writers to maintain their creative autonomy and intellectual property rights while reaching a broad, engaged audience.

Moreover, Substack isn't just about written content. It empowers creators with tools to manage email newsletters, set up podcasts, upload videos, and build a consistent readership. This versatility sets Substack apart from other content creation platforms like WordPress.

Why Use Substack as a Content Creator?

For writers, Substack provides a unique opportunity to publish independent content digitally. The platform supports a free-thinking environment, allowing creators to publish without brand partnership restrictions. Unlike social media channels, where your audience might be limited to followers who share your viewpoints, Substack offers a broader reach.

Celebrated authors like Margaret Atwood, George Saunders, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar use Substack to share their thoughts and engage with their readers. George Saunders, in an Esquire article, mentioned that Substack allows him to communicate more personally and regularly with his audience.

Statistics further underscore Substack’s popularity. According to Backlinko, Substack boasts over 2 million paid subscriptions and more than 500,000 paying subscribers. More impressive is that over 17,000 writers get paid for their newsletters, with the top ten highest-paid authors collectively earning more than $25 million per year.

Freedom and Monetization

Substack excels in helping writers monetize their own unique voice. The platform's subscription model eliminates the need for invasive brand partnerships and gives you the freedom to create the content you are passionate about. Whether you have a significant following or you're just starting, Substack makes it easier to turn your passion into profit.

Ease of Use

Another huge benefit is the ease of use and flexibility Substack offers. Unlike other platforms that require extensive setup and management, Substack allows for seamless publishing and distribution. You can focus on your content while the platform takes care of the logistics.

How to Start Using Substack as a Writer

1. Create an Account

Creating an account on Substack is straightforward. If you have an existing email list from platforms like WordPress or Mailchimp, you can import it to set the stage for your Substack journey. If not, you can manually add subscribers. Start with a free account to give your audience a preview before committing to a paid subscription model.

2. Manage Your Writer Dashboard

Once your account is set up, familiarize yourself with the writer dashboard. Here, you can see the steps needed to complete your profile, such as turning on paid subscriptions and sharing your Substack link. Customize your publication's name, branding, and about page through the settings tab to make it uniquely yours.

3. Create and Publish Your First Post

Now comes the fun part—creating your content. You can either repurpose an existing piece that performed well elsewhere or write something fresh. Use Substack’s built-in formatting tools to ensure your post looks great. Test the post by sending a preview email to yourself, making sure it reads well on both mobile and desktop before hitting publish.

4. Promote Your Content

Once published, share your post on social media platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn to drive traffic. Substack also provides free images for promotions, making it easier to advertise your work.

5. Track Your Performance

The Stats tab in your dashboard is invaluable for tracking your post’s performance. Here, you can see traffic sources, subscriber info, and open rates. Use this data to refine your strategy and better understand your audience.

6. Discover and Recommend Other Writers

Substack features an Explore tab that lets you find and recommend other writers. Supporting fellow creators can help you build a network and gain reciprocal recommendations.

How to Use Substack as a Reader

1. List Your Interests During Sign-up

When setting up your reader account, select your interests to help Substack suggest relevant publications. This streamlined approach makes it easier to filter through topics and find content you'll enjoy.

2. Search for Your Favorite Writers

Use the Search function to locate writers you already admire. Subscribing to their publications not only supports them but also helps Substack better understand your preferences.

3. Explore New Writers

Use the Explore feature to find new writers. The For You tab and topic-based browsing make it easy to discover relevant content. Check the Leaderboard for top publications in your chosen genres.

4. Use the Substack App

For a more seamless experience, consider using Substack's mobile app. The app’s user-friendly interface and push notifications make it simpler to keep up with your favorite writers.

5. Engage with the Community

Substack's comments sections facilitate thought-provoking discussions. Engage with other readers and writers to build a meaningful community around your favorite content.

Best Practices for Maximizing Substack

Select a Continuous Topic

Choose a subject you can write extensively about. The content should offer value to subscribers, either by teaching skills, providing information, entertaining, saving time, or making money.

Publish Consistently

Frequent posting increases the chances of your content going viral. Consistency builds trust and keeps your audience engaged.

Connect with Other Creators

Networking is crucial. Subscribe to, comment on, and recommend other publications to build relationships and expand your reader base.

Keep It Fun

While it’s essential to take your writing seriously, don't forget to enjoy the process. Creativity thrives in a relaxed environment.

Conclusion

Substack offers stacks of opportunities for both content creators and readers. With its user-friendly platform, diverse content options, and collaborative community, Substack is more than just a content hub; it’s a thriving ecosystem for meaningful engagement. If you’re a writer looking for an uncomplicated yet potent platform to share your work, or a reader seeking high-quality, independent content, Substack is worth exploring.

FAQ

What makes Substack different from other content platforms?

Substack combines the features of blogs, newsletters, and magazines, allowing for a more diversified content creation and distribution experience. It also offers monetization options that favor the writer's financial autonomy.

Do I have to pay to use Substack?

Creating an account and accessing most content is free. However, some writers offer paid subscriptions for exclusive content.

Can I switch from a free to a paid model later?

Yes, you can start with a free account and switch to a paid model whenever you feel ready.

How does Substack's email newsletter feature work?

Substack simplifies the process of sending email newsletters to your subscribers. You can manage and track these newsletters directly from your writer dashboard.

Is Substack suitable for all types of content?

While Substack is popular among writers and journalists, it also supports podcasts and video content, making it versatile for various kinds of creators.