Notes Boost Challenge
(00:00:22) Introduction to the Notes Boost Challenge
Created when Substack introduced notes
Notes is now 2 years old and offers phenomenal growth potential
(00:01:21) Purpose of the Notes Boost Challenge
Created to connect Substack writers with each other
Helps writers gain visibility through engagement
Not about frequency but quality of engagement
(00:03:11) How the Notes Boost Challenge works
Writers share notes in comments
Others can boost notes they genuinely like
Creates community and connection between writers
(00:04:05) Mental health considerations
Emphasis on keeping Notes a mentally healthy space
Recommendation to limit time in the main notes feed
Notes Boost helps avoid toxic aspects of social media
(00:06:01) Participation process
Post your note in the comments
Others find and boost notes they genuinely like
Will separate into categories (culture, health, literature, etc.)
(00:07:32) Timing of Notes Boost
Emails go out at 9 AM daily
Being early increases traction
Will add afternoon boost at 2 PM (everything closes at 5 PM)
(00:09:49) Types of notes that get traction
Tweet-like short posts
Facebook-style life updates
Instagram-style photos with captions
Longer text-only posts with a story/narrative
Avoid links in posts
(00:14:13) SEO in notes
Using keywords helps visibility
Search for your topic to see what works
Curate your feed for better experience
(00:16:44) Importance of authentic voice
Don't use AI - readers can tell
Voice and tone are what AI can't duplicate
Personal stories and authentic voice get traction
(00:18:01) Growth potential
Example of client gaining 5,000 subscribers from one note
Email lists are valuable assets for authors
(00:20:59) Export your subscribers monthly
Critical safety tip after someone accidentally deleted their Substack
Export CSV files regularly to protect your subscriber list
(00:22:54) Time management advice
Don't engage with notes constantly
Just be in Notes Boost once a day during the 21-day challenge
Takes about an hour a day to participate meaningfully
(00:36:33) Final tips
Post an "introduce yourself to Substack" note
The challenge runs for 21 days, then you get time off
Take advantage of the growth opportunity while it lasts
