3 Proven Ways to Ensure Your Newsletter Is Actually Read
3 minutes

3 Proven Ways to Ensure Your Newsletter Is Actually Read

By Susan Rose, Vice President of Strategic Insights and Content

Feb. 25, 2025

Newsletters are a strategic necessity in today’s government market.

Our 2024 media study shows that over 40% of public sector professionals dedicate at least 15 minutes daily to engaging with curated newsletter content.

That’s your golden window to position your brand, share your expertise, and offer innovative solutions directly to key government decision-makers without the noise of social media and broad digital ads.

_____


Why Public Sector Professionals Rely on Newsletters

Time is scarce, and credibility is crucial. Delivering curated, relevant content through newsletters can set your organization apart. Decision-makers seek information that’s both authoritative and actionable.

According to our media study:

  • Newsletters rank among the most frequently used sources for work-related news for both federal and state/local audiences.
  • Government employees trust industry-specific sources.

Their selective engagement means they mostly open newsletters from trusted sources.

According to the study, public sector professionals overwhelmingly prefer newsletters from government agencies or established government-focused media (like GovExec's platforms) over emails from vendors.

This matters because if your content isn’t perceived as credible, they won’t read it. Look for trusted newsletters in which to place your content.

_____


Plan Your Content Strategy for Maximum Impact

So, what kind of content actually gets read rather than instantly deleted?

Here are three topic areas that work well:

 

1. Policy & Regulatory Updates
Government professionals need digestible summaries of policy changes, regulations, and compliance requirements. Simplify complex executive orders, funding bills, or cybersecurity mandates into clear, actionable insights.

  • Pro Tip: Use bullet points and key insights to summarize complex topics with clear, actionable takeaways.

2. Case Studies & Success Stories
Nothing builds credibility faster than showing how others in government have successfully implemented a solution. Whether it’s a federal agency streamlining operations with AI or a state government improving emergency response with edge technology, real-world examples resonate.

  • Pro Tip: Focus on outcomes rather than features. Government buyers want proof that a solution works, not a sales pitch.

3. Expert Insights & Thought Leadership
Government professionals respect industry expertise. A well-crafted Q&A with a subject matter expert, a research-backed article, or a perspective on future technology trends can establish your brand as a go-to resource.

  • Pro Tip: Leverage internal experts or partnerships with thought leaders to add further credibility to your message.

_____


Leverage Trusted Platforms

When trust is paramount, where you publish matters as much as what you publish. Public sector professionals overwhelmingly prefer content delivered by established, credible sources. By strategically placing your newsletter content in trusted channels such as GovExec’s media sites (Government Executive, Nextgov/FCW, Defense One, Route Fifty, and Washington Technology), you harness a network that not only validates your message but also magnifies its reach.

We understand the unique challenges and opportunities of B2G marketing. Our proven strategies and deep industry insights empower you to deliver content that informs, engages, and drives real action, ensuring your message isn’t just heard but trusted.

_____
 

The Bottom Line

Newsletters are one of the most effective tools in your arsenal. They provide a direct, trusted channel to decision-makers who are actively looking for relevant insights. And with 40%+ of government professionals dedicating time daily to reading them, you have a prime opportunity to influence their thinking–if you deliver content that informs, engages, and adds value.

Ready to transform your public sector communications?
Discover how GovExec’s strategic content solutions can help you craft messages that resonate, build trust, and drive results.

Contact Solutions@GovExec.com today.

More to Read >