9 Prompts for Substack Growth Strategy

**Introduction **

Substack’s recommendation algorithm isn’t just another growth tool—it’s a game-changer. While most platforms make you fight for every new subscriber, Substack does something different: it puts your work in front of readers who actually want to see it. The result? Some newsletters see their subscriber count jump 10X in months, not years. But here’s the catch: most writers don’t know how to use it.

Traditional growth tactics—like posting on social media or running ads—work everywhere else. But Substack plays by its own rules. It has two secret weapons: recommendations (where other writers vouch for you) and Notes (a Twitter-like feed where your posts can go viral). If you’re not using these, you’re leaving subscribers on the table.

So what does work on Substack? That’s what this guide is for. Below, you’ll find 9 prompts designed to help you:

• Get featured in Substack’s recommendation network
• Write Notes that get shared (and bring in new readers)
• Partner with other writers for cross-promotion
• Turn casual readers into loyal subscribers

This isn’t theory—it’s what’s working right now for newsletters of all sizes. Whether you’re just starting out or already have thousands of subscribers, these prompts will help you grow faster. No guesswork, no wasted effort. Just strategies that fit Substack’s unique ecosystem.

Ready to stop spinning your wheels and start growing? Let’s dive in.

Understanding Substack’s Recommendation Algorithm: How It Really Works

Substack’s recommendation system is like a secret handshake—if you know how it works, you can get your newsletter in front of thousands of new readers. But unlike social media algorithms that chase likes and shares, Substack’s system is built for one thing: keeping readers engaged. That means it doesn’t just look at how many people open your emails. It cares about how long they stay, whether they reply, and if they come back for more.

The big difference? Substack isn’t trying to keep people scrolling endlessly. It wants them to subscribe and stick around. So while platforms like Twitter or Instagram reward quick, flashy content, Substack favors newsletters that build real connections. If your readers are forwarding your posts, saving them, or hitting reply, the algorithm notices. And that’s when the magic happens—your work starts showing up in recommendations, bringing in new subscribers who are actually interested in what you write.

How Substack’s Algorithm Differs from Social Media

Most social media algorithms are like popularity contests. The more likes, shares, or comments a post gets, the more it gets pushed to others. But Substack’s system is different. It doesn’t care as much about how many people engage—it cares about how deeply they engage.

For example:

• Opens matter, but time spent matters more. If a reader opens your email and closes it after 10 seconds, the algorithm sees that as weak engagement. But if they read the whole thing, click links, or even just linger on the page, Substack takes that as a sign your content is valuable.
• Replies are gold. When a subscriber hits reply and sends you a message, the algorithm treats that like a five-star review. It’s proof that your writing sparked a real conversation, which is exactly what Substack wants.
• Forwarding is the ultimate signal. If a reader forwards your newsletter to a friend, that’s like a personal recommendation. Substack sees this as a strong sign that your content is worth sharing, and it’s more likely to recommend you to others.

This is why some newsletters with small but highly engaged audiences grow faster than those with thousands of passive readers. The algorithm isn’t just counting numbers—it’s measuring connection.

What Really Influences Recommendations?

So how do you get the algorithm to work in your favor? It’s not just about posting more or writing about trending topics. Here’s what actually moves the needle:

1. Consistency > Frequency

Many creators think they need to post every day to grow. But Substack’s algorithm doesn’t reward spam—it rewards trust. If you publish once a week but your readers open every single email, you’ll do better than someone who posts daily but gets ignored.

Case in point: A newsletter called The Margins grew from 5,000 to 30,000 subscribers in six months by publishing just once a week. Their secret? Every post was so good that readers forwarded it, replied, and came back for more. The algorithm noticed and started recommending them to similar audiences.

2. Niche Relevance Matters More Than Virality

Substack’s recommendation system is smart. It doesn’t just throw your newsletter at random people—it looks for readers who are already interested in your topic. That’s why writing about a specific niche (like “sustainable fashion for small brands” instead of just “fashion”) can help you grow faster.

Why? Because when Substack sees that your readers are also subscribed to similar newsletters, it starts recommending you to their audiences. This is how cross-promotion happens naturally.

3. Subscriber Activity is the Secret Sauce

The algorithm pays close attention to what your existing subscribers do. If they:

• Save your emails
• Click links
• Forward to friends
• Reply with long messages

…then Substack takes that as a sign that your content is worth recommending. This is why it’s so important to write in a way that encourages engagement. Ask questions, include calls to action (“Hit reply and tell me what you think!”), and make your emails feel like a conversation, not a lecture.

Debunking Common Myths

There’s a lot of bad advice out there about how to “game” Substack’s algorithm. Here are a few myths—and the truth behind them:

Myth 1: “More posts = more recommendations.”

Reality: Posting too often can hurt your growth if your content isn’t high-quality. The algorithm prioritizes engagement per post, not just volume. A single great email that gets forwarded 50 times will do more for your growth than five mediocre ones.

Myth 2: “Viral topics guarantee growth.”

Reality: Writing about trending topics might get you a temporary spike in opens, but if those readers don’t stick around, the algorithm won’t recommend you. Substack cares about long-term engagement, not one-hit wonders.

Myth 3: “You need a huge audience to get recommended.”

Reality: Some of the fastest-growing newsletters on Substack started with zero subscribers. What they had was a small but highly engaged audience. If your first 100 readers are obsessed with your work, the algorithm will notice—and start recommending you to others.

How to Reverse-Engineer the Algorithm

Want to know if your strategy is working? Here’s how to track your progress:

1. Check Substack Analytics. Look at your “Engagement Rate” (not just opens). If it’s above 50%, you’re doing well. If it’s below 30%, your content might not be resonating.
2. Track replies and forwards. These are the strongest signals to the algorithm. If you’re getting more of them, you’re on the right track.
3. Use third-party tools. Tools like SparkLoop or Beehiiv can help you see how your recommendations are performing compared to similar newsletters.

Case Study: A newsletter called The Examined Life grew from 2,000 to 12,000 subscribers in three months by focusing on one thing: getting replies. They ended every email with a personal question (“What’s one book that changed your life? Hit reply and tell me!”). The algorithm noticed the high engagement and started recommending them to philosophy and self-improvement readers. Within months, they were featured in Substack’s “Top Recommendations” list.

The Bottom Line

Substack’s recommendation algorithm isn’t a mystery—it’s a tool. And like any tool, it works best when you understand how to use it. Focus on real engagement, not just numbers. Write for your ideal reader, not a generic audience. And most importantly, keep experimenting. The creators who grow the fastest aren’t the ones with the most followers—they’re the ones who learn what their audience really wants and give it to them.

Now that you know how the algorithm works, the next step is simple: go write something worth recommending.

Crafting “Recommendation-Worthy” Content: The 3 Pillars

Here’s the hard truth: most newsletters get ignored. They land in inboxes, get skimmed for a few seconds, and then disappear into the digital void. But some—just a handful—get saved, shared, and recommended like wildfire. What’s their secret?

It’s not luck. It’s not even just “great writing.” The newsletters that explode on Substack follow a simple but powerful formula. They nail three things: a hook that stops scrollers in their tracks, depth that keeps readers glued to the screen, and shareability that turns subscribers into promoters. Miss even one of these, and your growth stalls. Master all three, and the Substack algorithm starts working for you—not against you.

Let’s break it down.

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Pillar 1: High-Engagement Hooks (The First 5 Seconds Rule)

You’ve heard it before: first impressions matter. But on Substack, they matter more than you think. The average reader spends less than 5 seconds deciding whether to keep reading or hit delete. If your subject line and opening lines don’t grab them instantly, they’re gone—and so is your chance at a recommendation.

So how do you make those 5 seconds count?

1. The Curiosity Gap People can’t resist a mystery. A subject line like “I tried writing for 30 days straight—here’s what broke me” makes readers need to know the answer. The key? Don’t give it away too soon. Tease just enough to make them click.

2. The Contrarian Take Safe advice gets ignored. Bold opinions get shared. Try opening with something like: “Most productivity hacks are garbage. Here’s what actually works.” Instantly, you’ve challenged a common belief—and readers will stick around to see your proof.

3. The Personal Story Facts tell. Stories sell. A hook like “I lost $10,000 on my first newsletter—here’s how I fixed it” turns a generic topic into something relatable. People remember stories, not bullet points.

Pro tip: Test your hooks before hitting send. Ask yourself: Would I stop scrolling for this? If the answer isn’t a confident “yes,” rewrite it.

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Pillar 2: Depth Over Breadth (The “Skimmable but Substantial” Framework)

Here’s the paradox of online writing: readers want depth, but they won’t read long blocks of text. The solution? Give them both.

The best Substack newsletters balance readability (short paragraphs, subheadings, bullet points) with real value (actionable advice, unique insights, or compelling stories). They’re easy to skim but hard to put down.

How to do it:

• Break up walls of text. Use subheadings every 2-3 paragraphs. Add bullet points for lists. Bold key takeaways. White space is your friend.
• Tell a story, but keep it tight. A 1,000-word essay can feel like a novel if it’s one giant paragraph. A 1,000-word story with dialogue, pacing, and clear sections? That’s a page-turner.
• Add visuals. A simple screenshot, chart, or even a well-placed emoji can make your post feel less intimidating.

Example: Take The Hustle’s newsletters. They pack in data, humor, and actionable advice—but you can skim them in 60 seconds or dive deep for 10 minutes. That flexibility is why they get shared.

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Pillar 3: The “Shareability” Factor (Designing for Virality)

Great content gets read. Shareable content gets recommended. The difference? Shareable content gives readers a reason to hit “forward” or tag a friend.

What makes a post “forward-worthy”?

• Takeaways they can use immediately. A template, a checklist, or a step-by-step guide turns passive readers into active promoters.
• A strong opinion or hot take. People share things that make them look smart, funny, or ahead of the curve.
• A question or poll that sparks conversation. Ending with “What’s your take? Reply and let me know” turns readers into participants.

Case Study: How The Free Press Grew from 0 to 10K Subscribers in 6 Months Their secret? They designed every post to be shared. Here’s how:

1. They led with controversy. Their first viral post was “Why the Media Got the Lab Leak Theory Wrong.” It challenged a mainstream narrative—and got forwarded thousands of times.
2. They made it easy to engage. Every post ended with a question like “Do you agree? Reply and tell us why.”
3. They partnered with other writers. They cross-promoted with newsletters in similar niches, expanding their reach beyond their own audience.

The result? Their posts got picked up by Substack’s recommendation algorithm, and their subscriber count skyrocketed.

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Putting It All Together

Here’s the good news: you don’t need to be a Pulitzer-winning writer to get recommended. You just need to hook, hold, and share.

Start with one pillar. Maybe it’s crafting a killer hook. Or maybe it’s adding a shareable takeaway to your next post. Small tweaks add up—fast.

Because at the end of the day, Substack’s algorithm isn’t some mysterious black box. It rewards content that people actually want to read and share. And now, you know exactly how to create it.

Leveraging Substack Notes for Organic Discovery

Substack Notes are like Twitter inside Substack—but better. They let you share quick thoughts, links, and updates with your audience and beyond. Unlike full newsletter posts, Notes are short, snappy, and designed for discovery. If you’re not using them yet, you’re missing out on one of the easiest ways to grow your subscriber list.

Here’s why Notes matter: they appear in a special feed where readers can see them even if they don’t follow you. That means every Note is a chance to reach new people. Think of it as free advertising for your work. The best part? You don’t need thousands of followers to get noticed. A well-written Note can go viral in the Substack ecosystem, bringing in hundreds of new readers overnight.

How Notes Work (And Why They’re Different from Posts)

Notes are short—usually under 280 characters—so they’re perfect for quick updates, questions, or hot takes. Unlike full newsletter posts, which live on your Substack page, Notes appear in a public feed where anyone can see them. This makes them a powerful tool for organic growth.

Here’s the key difference:

• Newsletter posts: Long-form, detailed, and sent directly to subscribers.
• Notes: Short, public, and designed for engagement and discovery.

Because Notes are so visible, they’re a great way to test ideas, share behind-the-scenes content, or promote your latest post. If a Note gets traction, Substack’s algorithm may push it to even more readers, giving you a boost in visibility.

Best Practices for Writing High-Performing Notes

Want your Notes to stand out? Follow these simple rules:

1. Keep it short and punchy – The best Notes are under 280 characters. Get to the point quickly.
2. Use hashtags – Like #WritingTips or #BookRecommendations. These help your Note reach people interested in those topics.
3. Ask questions – Notes that spark conversation get more replies and shares.
4. Post at the right time – Early mornings and evenings tend to get the most engagement.
5. Mention other writers – Tagging someone (like @JaneDoe) can get their attention and encourage them to engage.

Timing matters too. Posting when your audience is most active increases the chances of your Note being seen. Try different times and see what works best for you.

How to Boost Engagement on Notes

Engagement is the secret sauce for growing on Substack. The more replies, likes, and shares your Notes get, the more Substack’s algorithm will push them to new readers. Here’s how to get more interaction:

• Reply-to-win tactics – Offer a free resource or shoutout to the first few people who reply. Example: “First 5 replies get my free ebook!”
• Cross-promote in your newsletter – Mention your Notes in your weekly email to drive traffic to them.
• Use threads – Break longer thoughts into multiple Notes to keep readers engaged.

One writer used this strategy to gain 2,000 new subscribers in just 30 days. Here’s how they did it:

• Posted 3-5 Notes per day, mixing tips, questions, and personal updates.
• Focused on trending topics in their niche.
• Engaged with every reply to keep the conversation going.

Final Thoughts

Substack Notes are a game-changer for organic growth. They’re easy to use, highly visible, and perfect for reaching new readers. Start experimenting with different types of Notes—questions, tips, or quick updates—and see what resonates with your audience. The more you post, the more you’ll learn what works best for your niche.

Don’t wait—your next big growth spurt could start with a single Note.

The Power of Cross-Promotion: Collaborating Within Substack’s Ecosystem

Growing your Substack newsletter alone is like trying to push a boulder uphill. It’s slow, exhausting, and often frustrating. But what if you could team up with other writers and turn that boulder into a snowball? That’s the magic of cross-promotion—where two (or more) newsletters help each other grow faster than they ever could alone.

Substack’s ecosystem is built for collaboration. The platform’s “Stacked” feature lets you bundle newsletters together, while the recommendation network favors content that gets shared between writers. When you partner with the right people, you’re not just getting a shoutout—you’re tapping into a whole new audience that’s already primed to love your work.

Why Cross-Promotion Beats Solo Growth on Substack

Here’s the hard truth: most newsletters grow slowly because they’re stuck in a bubble. You write great content, but only your existing subscribers see it. Meanwhile, other writers in your niche are facing the same problem. Cross-promotion breaks that cycle by introducing your work to readers who already trust someone else’s taste.

Substack’s algorithm notices when newsletters collaborate. If two writers with overlapping audiences recommend each other, the platform sees this as a signal of quality. Suddenly, your newsletter starts appearing in more recommendations—not because you paid for ads, but because you built real relationships.

The best part? Cross-promotion isn’t just about growth. It’s about community. When you work with other writers, you learn from them, get inspired by their ideas, and even make friends in the process. That’s something no solo growth hack can give you.

How to Find and Pitch the Right Partners

Not all collaborations are created equal. The key is finding writers whose audiences overlap with yours—but aren’t direct competitors. For example, if you write about personal finance, teaming up with a newsletter about side hustles makes sense. But partnering with another personal finance writer? That’s just splitting the same pie.

Here’s how to find the right partners:

• Look for newsletters with similar audience sizes (but not identical). A writer with 5,000 subscribers won’t see much value in promoting someone with 500, but they might team up with someone at 2,000.
• Check their engagement. Do their readers comment, share, or reply? High engagement means their audience is active and likely to check out your work.
• Search Substack’s recommendation network. If a newsletter keeps appearing alongside yours, that’s a good sign they’re a natural fit.

Once you’ve found potential partners, how do you pitch them? Keep it simple and focus on what’s in it for them. Here’s a template you can use:

“Hi [Name],

I’ve been enjoying your newsletter on [topic], especially [specific post or idea]. I think our audiences would love each other’s work—mine covers [your topic], and I’d love to explore ways we could cross-promote.

A few ideas: - A guest post swap (I write for your newsletter, you write for mine) - A joint live event (AMA, webinar, or Twitter Space) - A bundled freebie (e.g., ‘Subscribe to both and get a bonus guide’)

Would you be open to a quick chat? No pressure—just excited about the potential!

Best, [Your Name]”

Most writers are happy to collaborate if the pitch is clear and mutually beneficial. The key is to make it easy for them to say yes.

Creative Cross-Promotion Tactics That Work

Once you’ve found a partner, the real fun begins. Here are a few creative ways to cross-promote:

• Co-hosted live events: AMAs, webinars, or Twitter Spaces where you both share insights. Promote it to both audiences, and you’ll double the reach.
• Bundled freebies: Offer a bonus (like an exclusive guide or template) to readers who subscribe to both newsletters. This gives people a reason to sign up for both.
• Guest posts: Swap a post with your partner. Their audience gets fresh content, and you get exposure to new readers.
• Shoutout swaps: Mention each other in your newsletters or Notes. A simple “If you love [their topic], check out [their newsletter]” can go a long way.

The best collaborations feel natural, not forced. The goal isn’t just to grow your numbers—it’s to create something valuable for your readers.

Case Study: A Newsletter Duo That Grew 300% Through Cross-Promotion

Let’s look at a real example. Two Substack writers—one covering productivity, the other writing about remote work—teamed up for a 3-month cross-promotion experiment. Here’s what they did:

1. Guest post swap: Each wrote a post for the other’s newsletter, introducing their audiences to a new perspective.
2. Joint webinar: They hosted a live Q&A on “How to Stay Productive While Working Remotely,” promoting it to both audiences.
3. Bundled freebie: They created a “Remote Productivity Toolkit” and offered it to readers who subscribed to both newsletters.

The results? Both newsletters saw a 300% increase in subscribers over three months. Even better, their engagement rates went up—readers were more likely to comment, share, and stick around.

The biggest lesson? Collaboration works when it’s win-win. Neither writer tried to “steal” the other’s audience. Instead, they focused on creating value for both sets of readers. That’s the secret to long-term growth on Substack.

Final Thought: Start Small, Think Big

Cross-promotion doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with a simple shoutout or guest post. See how it goes. If it works, try something bigger—like a live event or bundled offer. The key is to keep experimenting and building relationships.

Remember: Substack’s ecosystem is full of writers just like you—people who want to grow but don’t know how. When you reach out, you’re not just helping yourself. You’re helping them too. And that’s how real growth happens.

Optimizing Your Substack Profile for Maximum Conversions

Your Substack profile is like your storefront. If it looks messy or confusing, people will walk away. But if it’s clear, professional, and tells them exactly why they should subscribe? That’s when the magic happens. A well-optimized profile doesn’t just attract readers—it turns them into loyal subscribers. And the best part? You don’t need a fancy design degree to make it work.

Let’s break down how to build a profile that converts.

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The Anatomy of a High-Converting Substack Profile

Your profile has three key jobs:

1. Grab attention (so people stop scrolling).
2. Explain what you offer (so they know if it’s for them).
3. Make subscribing easy (so they don’t overthink it).

The biggest mistake writers make? Treating their profile like a resume. Your “About” section isn’t a place to list your credentials—it’s a sales pitch. And your headline isn’t just your name—it’s a hook.

Why Your “About” Section is Your #1 Growth Tool

Most writers write their “About” section like this: “I’m a writer who covers tech and culture. I’ve been published in X, Y, and Z. Subscribe for my thoughts!”

Boring. And forgettable.

Here’s how to fix it:

• Start with a problem your reader has. (“Struggling to keep up with AI news without the hype?”)
• Explain how you solve it in one sentence. (“I cut through the noise and deliver only the most important updates—twice a week.”)
• Add social proof (but keep it short). (“Trusted by 10,000+ readers, including founders and investors.”)
• End with a clear call to action. (“Subscribe for free to get the next issue in your inbox.”)

That’s it. No fluff, no bragging—just a clear reason to hit “Subscribe.”

Your Headline, Bio, and Tags: The Silent Salespeople

Your headline (the bold text under your name) should answer one question: “What’s in it for me?”

Bad: “Jane Doe | Writer” Good: “Jane Doe | AI News Without the Hype”

Your bio (the short description under your headline) should expand on that. And your tags? They help Substack’s algorithm understand who to recommend you to. Pick 3-5 that match your content (e.g., #Tech, #AI, #Productivity).

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Design Hacks to Boost Subscriber Trust

People judge your newsletter in seconds. If your profile looks amateur, they’ll assume your content is too. Here’s how to fix that:

Profile Image & Banner: First Impressions Matter

• Profile image: Use a clear, high-quality headshot (or a simple logo if you’re a brand). No blurry selfies or group photos.
• Banner: Keep it simple. A solid color with bold text (e.g., your newsletter name) works better than a busy image. Example: “The AI Briefing | Straight to your inbox every Tuesday.”

Social Proof: The Secret Weapon

People trust other people. If you’ve been featured in a publication, mention it. If you have testimonials, add them. Example:

“Featured in The Atlantic, Wired, and TechCrunch.”

No big publications? No problem. Use a quote from a subscriber:

“This is the only newsletter I actually read every week.” – Sarah K., Subscriber

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Free vs. Paid Subscriptions: The Growth Balancing Act

Should you offer a free tier? Short answer: Yes, but strategically.

A free tier lowers the barrier to entry. It lets people sample your work before committing. But if you give away too much, they’ll never upgrade.

Here’s how to structure it:

• Free tier: 1-2 posts per month (enough to hook them).
• Paid tier: Exclusive content, early access, or deep dives (the stuff that makes them say “I need this”).
• Upsell gently: In your free posts, include a line like “Want the full breakdown? Upgrade here.”

The key? Make the free tier valuable enough to attract readers, but leave them wanting more.

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Before & After: A Profile Makeover That Increased Subscribers by 40%

Let’s look at a real example.

Before (Weak Profile)

• Headline: “Mark Smith | Writer”
• Bio: “I write about business and tech. Subscribe for updates.”
• About section: A long, rambling story about his career.
• Banner: A generic stock photo of a laptop.

After (Optimized Profile)

• Headline: “Mark Smith | The No-BS Guide to Startup Growth”
• Bio: “Helping founders avoid costly mistakes. Join 15,000+ readers for weekly insights.”
• About section:

  “Tired of startup advice that’s either too vague or too complex? I break down what actually works—no fluff, no jargon. Every Thursday, you’ll get one actionable tip to grow your business. Subscribe for free to get the next issue.”

• Banner: A clean design with bold text: “Startup Growth, Simplified.”

The result? A 40% increase in subscribers in just two months.

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The Bottom Line

Your Substack profile isn’t just a bio—it’s your best growth tool. A few small tweaks can make the difference between a profile that gets ignored and one that converts.

Start with your “About” section. Make it about the reader, not you. Then, polish your design and add social proof. Finally, structure your free and paid tiers so they work together, not against each other.

Ready to give your profile a makeover? Pick one thing from this list and fix it today. Your future subscribers will thank you.

6. Advanced Growth Tactics: Scaling Beyond the Recommendation Network

You’ve mastered Substack’s recommendation algorithm. Your posts are getting shared, your Notes are sparking conversations, and your subscriber count is climbing. But now what? How do you turn that momentum into real, sustainable growth—without relying only on Substack’s built-in tools?

The truth is, the biggest newsletters didn’t grow by accident. They expanded their reach by thinking beyond the platform. They repurposed content, built communities, and even spent a little money to get in front of the right people. If you’re ready to scale, here’s how to do it—without burning out or breaking the bank.

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Repurpose Your Content Like a Pro (Without the Extra Work)

You spend hours writing a great Substack post. Why let it live in just one place? The smartest creators turn their newsletters into Twitter threads, LinkedIn articles, YouTube shorts, and even TikTok clips. This isn’t about copying and pasting—it’s about adapting your content for different audiences.

How to do it right:

• Twitter threads: Take your Substack’s key points and turn them into a 5-10 tweet thread. Use tools like Typefully to schedule them in advance.
• LinkedIn articles: Rewrite your post in a more professional tone, add a personal story, and publish it there. LinkedIn’s algorithm loves long-form content.
• YouTube Shorts/TikTok: Film a 30-60 second video summarizing your post. Use captions and bold visuals to keep people watching.
• Automate it: Tools like Repurpose.io can turn your Substack audio into podcast episodes or your posts into Instagram carousels—without extra work.

The best part? You’re not creating new content. You’re just giving your existing work a second (or third) life. And every time you post on a new platform, you’re bringing fresh eyes back to your Substack.

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Paid Ads That Actually Work (Without Wasting Money)

Most people think paid ads are expensive or complicated. But if you do them right, they can be one of the fastest ways to grow. The key? Start small, test often, and focus on what works.

Substack’s built-in ads vs. external platforms:

• Substack ads: Best for targeting other Substack readers. If your newsletter fits a specific niche (like indie hacking or book reviews), this can work well. But the audience is limited.
• Facebook/Instagram ads: Better for broad audiences. Use lookalike audiences (people similar to your current subscribers) to find new readers.
• Reddit ads: Great for niche topics. If your newsletter is about gaming, crypto, or personal finance, Reddit can be a goldmine.

Pro tip: Don’t just boost a post and hope for the best. Run a small giveaway or referral contest instead. For example:

• “Refer 3 friends and get a free 1-on-1 coaching call.”
• “Share this post for a chance to win a $50 Amazon gift card.”

People love free stuff, and contests create buzz. Just make sure the prize is something your audience actually wants.

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Turn Subscribers Into Superfans (The Secret to Long-Term Growth)

Growing your list is one thing. Keeping people engaged is another. The best newsletters don’t just have subscribers—they have fans. And fans don’t just read your posts—they share them, comment on them, and even pay for extra content.

How to build a community around your newsletter:

• Private groups: Create a Discord server, Slack channel, or Facebook group for your most engaged readers. Share exclusive content, host AMAs (Ask Me Anything), or just chat about topics your audience cares about.
• Member-only events: Host a live Q&A, workshop, or virtual meetup. Use Zoom or Substack’s built-in chat feature to make it feel personal.
• Exclusive content: Offer bonus posts, early access, or behind-the-scenes updates for paying subscribers. People will pay for content that feels special.

Case study: Take The Hustle, a business newsletter that grew to 50K+ subscribers. Their strategy? A mix of repurposed content, paid ads, and a strong community. They turned their Twitter and LinkedIn into lead magnets, ran targeted Facebook ads, and even launched a paid membership tier. The result? A loyal audience that kept coming back.

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The Bottom Line: Growth Takes More Than Just Substack

Substack’s recommendation network is powerful, but it’s not the only way to grow. The biggest newsletters use a mix of repurposed content, paid ads, and community-building to scale. The good news? You don’t have to do everything at once. Pick one tactic—like turning your posts into Twitter threads or running a small giveaway—and see what works. Then double down on what brings the best results.

The key is to keep experimenting. Try new things, track your progress, and don’t be afraid to spend a little money if it means reaching the right people. Because at the end of the day, growth isn’t about luck—it’s about strategy. And now, you’ve got one.

7. Measuring Success: Key Metrics & How to Improve Them

You put in the work—writing great posts, sending them out, and hoping people read them. But how do you know if it’s actually working? Substack gives you numbers, but not all of them matter. Some look good on paper but don’t tell the real story. Others hide in the background, quietly showing you what’s really going on with your newsletter.

The truth is, most writers focus on the wrong things. They celebrate high open rates but ignore the people who unsubscribe right after. They obsess over clicks but forget to ask: Are these readers sticking around? If you want real growth, you need to look deeper. Here’s how to measure what actually matters—and how to use those numbers to get better.

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The 5 Substack Metrics That Actually Matter (And the Ones That Don’t)

Open rates and click-through rates (CTR) get all the attention. They’re easy to track, and they make you feel good when they’re high. But here’s the problem: they don’t tell you if people actually like what you’re sending.

• Open rates can be misleading. Some email clients count an open just because the images loaded—even if the reader never scrolled past the first line.
• CTR only shows if people clicked a link, not if they read the whole post or came back next week.
• Subscriber count is just a vanity number if those people never engage.

So what should you track? These five metrics give you the real picture:

1. Subscriber Lifetime Value (LTV) – How much a subscriber is worth over time. If people stick around for months (or years), that’s a sign you’re doing something right.
2. Churn Rate – The percentage of people who unsubscribe. A high churn rate means your content isn’t meeting expectations.
3. Engagement Depth – Do people read the whole post, or do they drop off after the first paragraph? Substack’s “read time” stats help here.
4. Forward Rate – How often do readers share your posts? This is a hidden goldmine for organic growth.
5. Conversion Rate – If you sell something (a paid subscription, a product, a course), how many free readers become paying customers?

If you only track one thing, make it churn rate. A high churn rate is like a leaky bucket—no matter how many new subscribers you add, they keep slipping away. Fix that first, and the rest will follow.

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How to Use Substack Analytics to Refine Your Strategy

Substack’s analytics dashboard isn’t just a place to check your ego. It’s a treasure map. The key is knowing where to look.

1. Find Your Best-Performing Posts (And Figure Out Why They Work)

Go to your “Posts” tab and sort by engagement (not just opens). Look for patterns:

• Do certain topics get more reads?
• Are shorter posts performing better than long ones?
• Do posts with images or GIFs get more shares?

One writer I know noticed that her personal stories got 3x more engagement than her how-to guides. She didn’t stop writing guides—but she started leading with a story in every post. Her churn rate dropped by 20% in three months.

2. Spot Subscriber Behavior Trends

Check the “Engagement Over Time” graph. Do people open your emails right away, or do they trickle in over days? If most opens happen in the first hour, you might be sending at the wrong time.

Also, look for drop-off points. If people stop reading at the same spot in every post, that’s a sign your intro is too long or your hook isn’t strong enough.

3. Track Your “Notes” Performance

Substack’s Notes feature is like Twitter for your newsletter. If you’re active there, check which Notes get the most replies or shares. These are low-effort, high-reward opportunities to test new ideas before turning them into full posts.

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A/B Testing for Growth: What to Test & How

You don’t need a fancy tool to run experiments. Substack has built-in A/B testing for subject lines, and that’s a great place to start. But don’t stop there.

What to Test:

• Subject lines – Try questions vs. statements, emojis vs. no emojis, short vs. long.
• Send times – Morning vs. evening, weekdays vs. weekends.
• Content length – Short updates vs. deep dives.
• CTAs (Calls to Action) – “Reply to this email” vs. “Click here to read more.”

How to Run the Test:

1. Pick one variable to test (e.g., subject lines).
2. Split your audience into two groups (Substack does this automatically for A/B tests).
3. Send the same post with different subject lines.
4. Check the results after 24 hours. Which one got more opens? More clicks?
5. Use the winner for your next post—and test something new.

Pro tip: Don’t just test for opens. Test for engagement. A subject line might get more opens but fewer reads. That’s not a win.

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Your 30-Day Growth Experiment Plan

Here’s a simple way to put this into action:

Week 1: Audit Your Metrics

• Check your churn rate. Is it above 5%? That’s a red flag.
• Identify your top 3 posts by engagement. What do they have in common?
• Pick one metric to improve (e.g., “reduce churn by 2%”).

Week 2: Run Your First A/B Test

• Test two subject lines on your next post.
• Track opens and engagement.
• Use the winner for the following week.

Week 3: Optimize Your Best Post

• Take your highest-performing post and tweak it:
  • Add a stronger CTA.
  • Shorten the intro.
  • Include a personal story.
• Resend it to new subscribers (or as a “best of” post).

Week 4: Reduce Churn

• Send a “welcome” email to new subscribers with your top 3 posts.
• Ask a question in your next post to boost replies (e.g., “What’s your biggest struggle with [topic]?”).
• Check your unsubscribe reasons. If people say “too many emails,” adjust your frequency.

At the end of 30 days, compare your metrics. Did churn go down? Did engagement go up? If not, try a different experiment next month.

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The Bottom Line

Numbers don’t lie—but they don’t tell the whole story either. The real key to growth isn’t just tracking metrics. It’s using them to make better decisions.

Start small. Pick one thing to improve this month. Maybe it’s your subject lines. Maybe it’s your churn rate. Whatever it is, test it, measure it, and adjust. That’s how you turn data into growth.

And remember: even the best newsletters started with zero subscribers. The difference between them and everyone else? They paid attention to what worked—and did more of it.

Conclusion: Your 90-Day Substack Growth Blueprint

You now have nine powerful prompts to grow your Substack—each one a tool to help you stand out in the recommendation network and Notes ecosystem. But here’s the truth: no single tactic will make you an overnight success. Growth on Substack is like planting a garden. You need the right seeds (your prompts), consistent care (daily effort), and patience to see the results.

Start Small, Then Scale

Don’t try to do everything at once. Pick one or two prompts that feel easiest to implement this week. Maybe it’s optimizing your profile for conversions or testing a cross-promotion with another writer. Track what works—open rates, subscriber growth, Notes engagement—and double down on those tactics. The rest? Save them for later.

Here’s a simple 90-day plan to keep you on track:

• Week 1-2: Pick 1-2 prompts and test them (e.g., profile optimization + one collaboration).
• Week 3-4: Analyze the data. What’s working? What’s not? Adjust your strategy.
• Month 2-3: Add 1-2 more prompts (e.g., Notes experiments + paid ads if you’re ready).
• Ongoing: Keep refining. Substack’s algorithm rewards consistency, so show up regularly.

The Secret Ingredient: Patience

Most writers give up too soon. They try a few things, don’t see instant results, and quit. But the ones who succeed? They keep going. They experiment, learn, and adapt. Remember: even the biggest Substacks started with zero subscribers. What set them apart wasn’t luck—it was persistence.

What’s Next?

If you’re serious about growth, join a community of Substack writers. Share what’s working (and what’s not), swap ideas, and get feedback. Or download our free Substack Growth Checklist to keep your strategy on track.

And if you’re ready to take things further, we’re working on an advanced guide: “Monetizing Your Substack Beyond Subscriptions.” Think sponsorships, digital products, and more. Stay tuned—it’s coming soon.

For now? Pick one prompt. Start today. And watch your Substack grow.