How to Re-Engage Your Email List After Taking a Break
“How do I start emailing again when it’s been so long since I last showed up?”
Let’s be honest—reconnecting with your email list after being MIA for a while can feel awkward. You’re not sure what to say. You’re worried people will have forgotten you. And the pressure to “get it right” can keep you stuck in silence even longer.
But here’s the truth: your email list is still one of the most powerful assets in your business. Even if it’s been months (or longer) since you last hit send, you can absolutely revive that connection—with the right approach.
In a recent episode of The Online Business AMA Podcast, I answered a listener question from Beth, who asked: “How do I start emailing again when it’s been so long since I last showed up?”
Here’s the simple, strategic advice I shared—and exactly how you can do the same.
“Re-engage your email list with simple, authentic updates. It’s all about connection, not perfection.”
1. Start with a Reintroduction Email
The first step is writing a short, heartfelt reintroduction email. Think of it as a friendly wave to your subscribers, not a dramatic apology.
No need to over-explain your absence. Just acknowledge that it’s been a while, then shift the focus to what’s coming next. Let them know what kind of content or value they can expect from you moving forward. This helps reset the relationship without digging into the past too much.
Example subject line ideas:
“Can we reconnect?”
“A quick update + what’s next”
“Let’s try this again…”
2. Be Honest, But Keep It Simple
You don’t have to share every detail about why you stepped away. In fact, keeping your message simple and focused on the future can be even more impactful.
Your audience is busy. They don’t need an essay—they just need to know that you’re back, you care, and you’ve got something valuable to offer.
3. Consistency Is More Important Than Frequency
One of the biggest fears after a long break is not being able to keep up with a regular schedule. The good news? You don’t need to email your list every day. Once a week or even twice a month is enough—as long as you’re consistent.
The goal is to rebuild trust over time. Show up when you say you will. Deliver content that helps them. And over time, they’ll look forward to hearing from you again.
4. Don’t Obsess Over Perfection
If perfectionism is keeping you from emailing your list, it’s time to let that go. The most effective emails are often the most human ones—short, clear, and genuine.
It’s okay if your email isn’t perfect. What matters is that you send it. That single action can spark reconnection, rebuild engagement, and remind your subscribers why they signed up in the first place.
5. Expect (and Embrace) Some Unsubscribes
This is completely normal—especially if your list hasn’t heard from you in a while. Don’t take it personally.
In fact, unsubscribes are a good thing. They help clean your list and leave you with a more engaged audience that’s excited about what you have to say.
If you’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to get back into email marketing, this is it. Don’t overthink it. Just start.
Write the email. Be honest. Show up. Your audience doesn’t need perfection—they need you.
And if you want more encouragement and step-by-step guidance on how to re-engage your email list, tune in to the full episode of The Online Business AMA Podcast. I walk you through everything you need to know to hit “send” with confidence.
