Why Subject Lines Matter
Ever wondered why some of your emails hit the jackpot while others languish in the dreaded unread abyss? It all starts with the subject line. Think of it as the bait on a fishing hook. Without the right lure, you’re not catching anything!
Keep It Short and Sweet
No one has time for War and Peace in their inbox. Aim for subject lines that are punchy and to the point. You’re looking at 6-10 words, tops. Remember, less is more.
Take the classic “Sale ends today!”—only three words but it hits you like a flash flood. You know what they’re saying and that you need to act fast. Boom, you’re in!
Inject Some Curiosity
People are inherently nosy. Use it to your advantage. Try something that makes them itch to find out more, like “You won’t believe this secret…” or “Guess what just happened…” Now, they have to open your email to scratch that itch.
Personal Touches Pay Off
Dear reader, this bit’s for you. People love seeing their name, don’t they? Personalised subject lines have a higher open rate. Think along the lines of “Hey [Name], check out this exclusive offer!” You’ve grabbed their attention because you’ve made it about them. Brilliant, right?
Utilise Numbers
Numbers are your best mates. They stand out in a sea of text and give people an idea of what to expect. “5 Tips for Better Sleep” or “3 Secrets to Success” tell the reader immediately what they’re getting into.
Plus, numbers provide clarity. Who doesn’t want to know three easy ways to improve their life?
Create Urgency
Fear of missing out—it’s a thing. Harness it. Phrases like “Last chance” or “Only a few left” can spur people into action. Not many can resist the pull of a ticking clock, can they?
Get Funny or Clever
A bit of humour can go a long way. Nobody’s saying you need to be a stand-up comedian, but a clever play on words or a lighthearted quip can make your email stand out. “Don’t Miss This ‘Grape’ Offer” for a wine sale or “We’ve Got a ‘Latte’ to Tell You” for a coffee shop. See what we did there?
Test, Test, Test
Don’t just take our word for it; try different approaches and see what works best. A/B testing is your friend. Send one subject line to half your list and another to the rest. You’ll quickly see which one hits the target.
Know Your Audience
Your audience is not a monolithic block. They have different likes, dislikes, and quirks. Tailoring your subject lines to fit the audience’s interests can dramatically boost your open rates. Are they professionals looking for time-saving tips? Or maybe parents searching for quick dinner recipes? Craft your subject lines accordingly.
Watch Those Spam Filters
Be mindful of spammy words. “Free,” “Offer,” “Winner,” and their ilk often trigger spam filters. So, think twice before using them. Instead, opt for more creative language. You’re not trying to trick anyone; you’re trying to engage them.
Make It Mobile-Friendly
Many of us check emails on our phones. Subject lines can get cut off if they’re too long. Keep them short but impactful, ensuring they capture attention even when truncated.
Use Emojis Wisely
Emojis can add flair, but don’t go overboard. A well-placed emoji can make your subject line pop, but more than one can make it look like your cat walked across the keyboard. 🌟 is great; 🌟✨🎉⭐️🔥💥 is not.
Examples to Spark Inspiration
Need a jumpstart? Here are a few examples of subject lines that could get those gears turning:
- “Unlock the Secret to a Perfect Morning Routine”
- “Are You Making This Common Mistake?”
- “Your Special Offer Inside—Don’t Miss Out!”
- “Get 20% Off Before It’s Gone!”
- “Top 10 Travel Hacks You Need to Know”
Wrapping it Up
If you’ve been experiencing unopened emails, don’t fret. It’s not you, it’s (probably) the subject line. Follow these tips, experiment, and soon you’ll notice your emails getting the attention they deserve.
After all, an email can’t work its magic if no one’s opening it. Get those subject lines right, and you’ll be reeling in those clicks like a pro.
Happy emailing!