The Power of Notes: A Tool for Genuine Connection and Growth on Substack

Beyond the Newsletter: Embrace Notes for Genuine Connection and Personal Growth

Mar 25, 2025

If you haven’t noticed, Notes on Substack is… wild! It’s the heart and soul of the platform. It sparks fire, excitement, misery, and above all else—connection.

If that doesn’t grab your attention, I’m not sure what will. But hey, you clicked on this post for a reason, right? You saw the title—Notes Strategy That Equals Comprehensive Growth on Substack. And trust me, if you stick with me through this post (and beyond), you’ll get real value—mostly for FREE as well. Hit subscribe, and you'll see what I mean! 👇

Let’s dive in.

My Journey with Substack and Notes

When I first came to Substack around two years ago, Notes wasn’t even a thing. I wasn’t consistent, and honestly, I gave up after about a month. Fast forward to two years later, with a fresh perspective and a better outlook on things, I came back. And what did I find? Notes was here—and I almost ignored it.

I was laser-focused on my newsletter posts, thinking that Notes was just another gimmick from Substack. I assumed it was their attempt to create some social media frenzy and compete with the “big boys” like Twitter/X, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Sure, that could be one of the motives. But let me tell you, after diving in and actually experiencing Notes, I realised—this is different. Notes isn’t just another social media tactic. It doesn’t follow the strategies of the big platforms. It’s unique. It has its own style and mantra, and it’s actually incredibly revitalising to be a part of.

What Makes Notes Different?

Here’s the thing about Notes:

It’s not just for the algorithm. It’s for the people.

Think about the other platforms: Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn—even Twitter/X. Their strategies are all about one thing—revenue. They rely on algorithms designed to maximise engagement to boost their bottom line. Substack doesn’t have ads, and right now, it doesn’t seem to have any ulterior motives. (Maybe in 10 years, things will be different… but that’s a discussion for another time.)

Right now, Notes is a playground for writers, creators, and experts to connect with one another and showcase genuine work. It’s real. It’s authentic. And it’s incredibly vitalising.

What Notes Really Is

So, what exactly is Notes?

It’s not just a feed. It’s not just a place to post random thoughts. It’s something much deeper.

Here’s what Notes truly offers:

It helps you understand your voice.
When you write on Notes, it’s not about impressing anyone. It’s about connecting with your audience on a deeper level. You get to find your true voice and express your ideas clearly and authentically.
It reaches your people.
Unlike the algorithm-heavy platforms, Notes allows you to connect directly with the people who resonate with your message. Whether they’ve been following you from the start or stumble upon your post by chance, it’s genuine connection.
It connects intentionally.
Every post you write on Notes is intentional. You’re putting your thoughts out there with purpose, building a community based on shared interests and values.
It connects unintentionally.
Sometimes, the best connections are the unexpected ones. A post can spark an idea, provoke thought, or start a conversation that you never saw coming. These unplanned connections are what make Notes so unique.
It forms your writing strategy.
When you use Notes consistently, you begin to understand what resonates with your audience. You start to refine your writing style, knowing what works, what doesn’t, and how to engage more effectively.
It supports who you are and what you stand for.
Notes is a space where you can be unapologetically you. You can share your passions, beliefs, and even your struggles. People who align with your values will naturally find their way to you.
It grows your purpose—personally and professionally.
The connections you make and the content you create on Notes help you grow—not just as a creator, but as a person. Your work becomes an extension of your values, and as you continue, you’ll find your purpose evolving.

So, How Do You Use Notes to Grow?

Now that we’ve established what Notes really is and how it can help you, the question remains: How do you use it to grow your presence on Substack and beyond?

Here’s how I would use it:

Consistency is key.
Start by posting regularly. Notes rewards consistency. Although I would recommend it, you don’t need to post every day, but find a rhythm that works for you.
TIP: Momentum builds consistency, once you start and keep going, you will find your rhythm, which may surprise you.
Focus on quality over quantity.
Don’t just write for the sake of writing. Be intentional with every post. Share your thoughts, ideas, and stories that resonate with your audience.
Engage with others.
Notes is a two-way street. Engage with others in your community. Respond to comments, participate in discussions, and make meaningful connections.
Experiment and learn.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of content. Share behind-the-scenes moments, ask questions, or share personal anecdotes. See what resonates most with your audience.
Be authentic.
Above all, be yourself. Notes is about authenticity. Don’t try to mimic others—show up as you are, and your people will find you.

If you’re looking for more than just a place to post your newsletter, Notes on Substack offers a space to truly express yourself. It’s not just about broadcasting content—it’s about using it as a tool to connect, to refine your voice, and to grow beyond the usual boundaries of a traditional newsletter.

Embrace it!

Embrace Notes as more than just an extension of your newsletter. Let it be a place where you can explore ideas, spark conversations, and deepen the connections that matter.

It’s about showing up in a way that feels real and meaningful, both for you and those who resonate with what you’re creating.

Come on! Leave a comment, and let’s engage and connect some more. You never know what connections are around the corner…