How to Use Email or Push Notifications to Bring Viewers Back

Email and push notifications are still two of the most reliable ways to bring viewers back to a streaming platform. The problem is that most messages feel generic or too frequent, so users ignore them. When the timing, tone, and content match what viewers actually care about, these messages become a simple and dependable way to increase weekly engagement.

Why notifications still work

People forget quickly. Even loyal viewers drift when life gets busy or when they assume nothing new has been added. A well timed message reminds them that something worth watching is waiting for them. Good notifications spark curiosity, not frustration, and they help viewers pick up where they left off without having to think.

Reasons viewers ignore messages

• Messages feel too broad or irrelevant.
• They arrive too often or at random times.
• No clear next action in the message.
• Information in the notification does not match what the user watches.
• Subject lines or titles feel automated rather than human.

How to use email and push notifications effectively

Match each message to a user’s recent activity

The best notifications reflect what someone watched recently. If they finished a documentary, highlight the next episode or a similar title. If they paused halfway through a class, send a gentle reminder that it is still waiting for them. Relevance is the strongest driver of return visits.

Send fewer messages with clearer intent

A controlled schedule performs better than a constant stream of alerts. One or two well written messages a week can move engagement far more than daily pushes. Each message should have one purpose, such as finishing a series, trying a new release, or returning to favorites.

Use straightforward subject lines and titles

Avoid clever or vague wording. Tell users exactly what the message is about. For example, “New episode in your series is ready” or “Continue your last workout.” Clear language reduces friction and increases open rates.

Highlight what is new or specific

When you release new content, announce the exact title, category, or benefit. If the message says something fresh is available, show what it is rather than a broad statement like “New videos added.” Specific information makes people more likely to click.

Send at the right time of day

Timing matters more than frequency. Early evenings often perform well because people are settling in and looking for something to watch. For fitness or learning content, mornings can also work. Test a few windows and track which hours lead to the most returns.

Use simple language that feels personal

Messages should sound like they were written by a human. Skip dramatic claims or promotional phrasing. Short, direct sentences work best. For example, “Thought you might like this new class” feels more natural than “Exclusive content waiting for you right now.”

Give users a quick action to take

Each message should lead directly to a video or collection. Avoid linking to the homepage unless absolutely necessary. Deep links reduce drop-off and remove extra decision steps. Less thinking leads to more watching.

How to measure if your messages are working

Track open rates, click-through rates, and return sessions within twenty four hours of sending a message. Compare performance between personalized and general notifications. If personalized messages consistently outperform, expand that approach. Look at long term patterns, not just one week spikes, to understand what actually influences return visits.

Tools or examples that help

Platforms such as AudiencePlayer let you automate behavior-based messages that react to how viewers use your service. You can send reminders when someone stops halfway through a series, promote new weekly releases, or highlight content similar to what they already enjoy. These small nudges help bring viewers back without overwhelming them.

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