Email is still one of the most critical components of digital marketing.

Standing out in crowded inboxes is a challenging task. So, how can you craft messages that get opened and position you as a trusted expert?

Today, we’re looking at five content frameworks to bolster your email strategy.

The Evolution of Email Thought Leadership

In the early days of email marketing, simply having a list was enough.

But as inboxes became saturated, smart marketers realized the need for a more strategic approach. Authentic thought leadership goes beyond promotional blasts. It’s more about providing consistent value and unique insights that keep subscribers eagerly anticipating your next message.

The Secret to Email Authority

Becoming a thought leader sounds cool, but how do you make it happen?

It’s not about having all the answers. It’s about asking the right questions and guiding your audience to new perspectives. The key lies in using proven content frameworks that showcase your expertise while keeping readers engaged.

These structures enable you to present information in a way that’s both accessible and impactful.

5 Content Frameworks

Here are five content frameworks that will raise your email game:

1. The Problem-Agitate-Solve (PAS) Framework:
   • Identify a common problem your audience faces
   • Agitate by highlighting the consequences of not solving it
   • Present your unique solution or insight
2. The What-Why-How Framework:
   • Explain WHAT a concept or trend is
   • Dive into WHY it matters to your audience
   • Show HOW to implement or benefit from it
3. The Contrarian View Framework:
   • Present a popular industry belief or practice
   • Challenge it with a well-reasoned contrary opinion
   • Offer evidence and a fresh perspective
4. The Case Study Framework:
   • Introduce a real-world example or client story
   • Walk through the challenge, solution, and results
   • Extract actionable lessons for your readers
5. The Curated Insights Framework:
   • Gather and synthesize information from multiple sources
   • Add your expert analysis and commentary
   • Provide a unique, big-picture view of a topic

Each of these frameworks allows you to structure your emails to demonstrate expertise, provide value, and keep readers engaged.

Implementing Your New Strategy

Adopting these frameworks doesn’t mean completely overhauling your email approach.

Start by incorporating one framework into your next newsletter. Pay attention to how your audience responds – increased open rates, more replies or social shares are all positive indicators.

Consistency is key.

Use these structures regularly to create a recognizable pattern that your subscribers will come to appreciate and expect. Becoming a thought leader isn’t about having a fancy title or the largest list.

It’s about consistently delivering value and insights your audience can’t find anywhere else.

Key Takeaways

• Email thought leadership is about providing unique value, not just promotion
• Content frameworks help structure your expertise in engaging ways
• Consistency and audience focus are crucial for building authority
• Experiment with different frameworks to find what resonates with your subscribers
• Track engagement metrics to refine your approach over time

Cheers, Gareth. P.S. If you have any questions or reflections, please reply and let me know.

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