How to Tell Your Network About Your Substack (Without Feeling Spammy)

This is a great way to launch with a bang! 🧨

I launched my Substack publication on January 10, 2024. By the end of the day, I had 104 subscribers (including 10 paid subscribers).

The crazy part is that I hadn’t even published any real content yet. The only thing I published that day was a short post introducing my publication.

This was only possible because I spent the rest of that day doing something more important: reaching out to my network.

By making sure my network knew about my new publication, I made it easier for them to show up and support me. This initial support helped kickstart the momentum I needed to grow a brand-new publication from scratch.

We all have networks.

I’m not famous or particularly important. I didn’t have a pre-existing email list I could import.

But like most people, I live in society and am part of many communities: my friends and family, people I’ve worked with, people I’ve met at industry events, and more.

Chances are good that you have a network, too! And if you let them know what you’re up to, you might be surprised by how they show up to support you.

How to Reach Out to Your Network

Telling people you’ve launched a newsletter can feel... weird. Many of us feel awkward after hitting send on an email or a DM and wonder if it sounds too self-promotional. 🤮

But here’s the thing: if you’re proud of what you’re creating, you should let people know. And it doesn’t have to feel cringy.

When done with care and authenticity, sharing your Substack with your network can be a generous act: an invitation to connect, learn, and share something meaningful.

It’s also one of the most effective growth levers you have early on. When you’re launching a new publication, your network is often your first source of traction. These early subscribers aren’t just numbers—they’re the people most likely to read, share, and cheer you on. Getting them onboard quickly can create momentum, build confidence, and help you attract a wider audience.

Here's how to do it in a way that feels good for both you and your network.