diff --git a/.github/workflows/good-first-issue.yml b/.github/workflows/good-first-issue.yml
index 638e6bce6190..209d9dde29dc 100644
--- a/.github/workflows/good-first-issue.yml
+++ b/.github/workflows/good-first-issue.yml
@@ -15,8 +15,19 @@ jobs:
         with:
           issue-number: ${{ github.event.issue.number }}
           body: |
-            Please see [our Contributing guide](https://matplotlib.org/stable/devel/index) for
-            more information on how to contribute.
-            **We do not assign issues**, and unless there is a PR for this issue already, feel free
-            to start working on it. Do not hesitate to ask if something needs clarification - see
-            also [our different communication channels](https://matplotlib.org/stable/devel/contributing.html#get-connected).
+            ### Good first issue - notes for new contributors
+
+            This issue is suited to new contributors because it does not require
+            understanding of the Matplotlib internals. To get started,
+            please see our [contributing guide](https://matplotlib.org/stable/devel/index).
+
+
+            **We do not assign issues**. Check the *Development* section in
+            the sidebar for linked pull requests (PRs). If there are none, feel
+            free to start working on it. If there is an open PR, please
+            collaborate on the work by reviewing it rather than
+            duplicating it in a competeing PR.
+
+
+            If something is confusing or unclear, please reach out on any of our
+            [communication channels](https://matplotlib.org/stable/devel/contributing.html#get-connected).