How I Got 36 New Subscribers this Weekend from Just 2 Notes (that took me 15 minutes to write)
Wes Pearcesubstack.com
How I Got 36 New Subscribers this Weekend from Just 2 Notes (that took me 15 minutes to write)
Your hook really is so important. You could write two almost identical Notes with different hooks and they may get varying engagement.
Wes Pearce • How I Got 36 New Subscribers this Weekend from Just 2 Notes (that took me 15 minutes to write)
Note #1: “Only nine months ago, I started writing again on Substack.... See more
Today, I’m writing a new post for 8,500+ beautiful subscribers. It’s all about consistency.
If you’re growing on Substack, drop a link to your recent post for us to read.
I’d love to scroll and find a few new writers to restack and recommend. ✌🏻
How has Substack been going for you?
Wes Pearce • How I Got 36 New Subscribers this Weekend from Just 2 Notes (that took me 15 minutes to write)
I use Claude to help brainstorm variations: "Here's a Note format that's working well. Help me create 5 similar Notes for my audience about [topic]."
Bonus Tip: Find any high-engagement Note, scroll down below the comments, and you'll see "Related Notes." This is a goldmine of proven viral content you can use as inspiration templates.
Bonus Tip: Find any high-engagement Note, scroll down below the comments, and you'll see "Related Notes." This is a goldmine of proven viral content you can use as inspiration templates.
Wes Pearce • How I Got 36 New Subscribers this Weekend from Just 2 Notes (that took me 15 minutes to write)
Note #2: "Quit social media & focused on Substack.
Now, 8000+ subscribers later (and a full-time income), I’m glad I did.
I write part-time. Live life full-time.
And enjoying a lot more peace without the social media chaos.
It’s possible to do things your own way and succeed.”
Wes Pearce • How I Got 36 New Subscribers this Weekend from Just 2 Notes (that took me 15 minutes to write)
Every effective Note follows this structure:
- Hook: One attention-grabbing line that stops the scroll
- Value: A clear insight, validation, or moment of connection
- Action: End with a question, invitation, or call to engage
Wes Pearce • How I Got 36 New Subscribers this Weekend from Just 2 Notes (that took me 15 minutes to write)
The best-performing Notes address universal struggles: imposter syndrome, procrastination, comparison trap, fear of judgment, work-life balance.
Everyone faces these challenges, not just writers. When you validate these experiences, people feel seen and understood.
They want to chime in and share their experience, too...
Everyone faces these challenges, not just writers. When you validate these experiences, people feel seen and understood.
They want to chime in and share their experience, too...
Wes Pearce • How I Got 36 New Subscribers this Weekend from Just 2 Notes (that took me 15 minutes to write)
According to Substack's own data, about 30% of new subscribers come from within the platform itself. Yet most writers spend 95% of their time trying to drive external traffic while completely ignoring this built-in growth engine.
Wes Pearce • How I Got 36 New Subscribers this Weekend from Just 2 Notes (that took me 15 minutes to write)
Instead of posting random thoughts, spend 10 minutes studying Notes that are getting high engagement. Look at their structure, their hooks, their calls-to-action.
Then create your own version using the same format but with your unique voice and perspective.
Wes Pearce • How I Got 36 New Subscribers this Weekend from Just 2 Notes (that took me 15 minutes to write)
The biggest mistake I see is writers making every Note about their newsletter.
Instead, create Notes that build community and connection. Invite people to share, introduce themselves, or connect with each other. You become the host, not the performer.