How to Write an Email Subject Line That Gets Opened: Tips & Examples

The subject line of an email is the first thing a recipient sees, and it can make or break whether your email gets opened or sent straight to the trash. Writing an effective email subject line is crucial for improving open rates and driving engagement. But how do you craft a subject line that grabs attention?

In this blog, we’ll cover key strategies for writing compelling email subject lines and provide examples you can use in your personal or professional emails.

Why Email Subject Lines Matter

Your email subject line is the “doorway” to your message. A well-written subject line can:

• Increase Open Rates: A strong subject line will entice recipients to open your email.
• Improve Engagement: With a clear, attention-grabbing subject line, recipients are more likely to engage with the content inside.
• Avoid Spam Filters: Certain words or phrases can trigger spam filters, so crafting a proper subject line also helps your email land in the inbox rather than the junk folder.

In email marketing, 47% of recipients open an email based solely on the subject line, making it one of the most critical elements of your campaign.

How to Write a Great Email Subject Line: 7 Tips

1. Keep It Short and Sweet

The best subject lines are concise and to the point. With most people checking emails on mobile devices, it’s essential to keep your subject line within 40-60 characters (about 6-10 words). This ensures the entire subject line is visible on smaller screens.

Example:

• ✅ “Your Order is Ready for Pickup”
• ❌ “We Are Excited to Inform You That Your Order Is Now Available for Pickup”

2. Create a Sense of Urgency

Encourage recipients to open your email immediately by creating a sense of urgency or scarcity. Phrases like “limited time offer” or “only a few spots left” can prompt immediate action.

Example:

• “Hurry, 50% Off Sale Ends Tonight!”
• “Last Chance: Early Bird Pricing Ends Tomorrow”

3. Use Numbers and Lists

Using numbers in your subject line is an effective way to catch attention and set expectations. Lists and numbers appeal to readers because they suggest specific, digestible content.

Example:

• “5 Tips to Improve Your Email Marketing Today”
• “3 Easy Steps to Boost Productivity”

4. Personalize the Subject Line

Personalizing subject lines with the recipient’s name or other personal details increases the chances of your email getting opened. According to studies, emails with personalized subject lines are 26% more likely to be opened.

Example:

• “John, Here’s How You Can Save on Your Next Purchase”
• “We Picked These Deals Just for You, Sarah”

5. Ask a Question

Posing a question in your subject line engages the recipient by sparking curiosity. Questions encourage readers to open the email to find the answer.

Example:

• “Want to Double Your Savings This Weekend?”
• “Are You Ready for the Ultimate Summer Adventure?”

6. Use Humor or a Play on Words

A clever or humorous subject line can stand out in a crowded inbox. Adding a bit of personality makes your email more relatable and memorable.

Example:

• “We Like You a Latte ☕ – Coffee Deals Inside”
• “Time Flies—Your Flight is Just Around the Corner!”

7. A/B Test Your Subject Lines

If you’re unsure which subject line will resonate most with your audience, A/B testing can help. Try sending two variations of the same email with different subject lines and analyze which one performs better. This can help you fine-tune your subject lines over time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing Subject Lines

1. Avoid Spammy Words

Words like “Free,” “Win,” or “Act Now” can trigger spam filters and prevent your email from reaching the inbox. Stay away from over-the-top claims and excessive punctuation (e.g., “!!!”).

Example of what to avoid:

• ❌ “FREE!!! Buy Now and Save 50%!!!”

2. Don’t Make False Promises

Your subject line should reflect the content of your email. Misleading subject lines can frustrate recipients and increase your unsubscribe rate.

3. Overusing All Caps

Using all caps can come across as shouting. Instead, reserve capitalization for specific words to draw attention without overwhelming the reader.

Example:

• ❌ “OPEN NOW FOR HUGE SAVINGS!!!”
• ✅ “Big Savings Just for You: Open Today”

Email Subject Line Examples by Category

For Sales and Promotions:

• “50% Off – Today Only!”
• “Don’t Miss Out! Sale Ends Soon”
• “Special Offer: Buy One, Get One Free”

For Newsletters:

• “Your October Newsletter is Here!”
• “Top 5 Industry Trends You Need to Know”
• “Updates You Can’t Miss This Week”

For Cold Emails:

• “Quick Question About [Company Name]”
• “John, Let’s Connect – I Can Help with [Pain Point]”
• “Can I Help You With [Specific Problem]?”

For Follow-Up Emails:

• “Just Checking In—Any Questions About Our Proposal?”
• “Still Interested in Our Offer? Here’s a Reminder!”
• “Thoughts on Our Last Conversation?”

For Re-engagement:

• “We Miss You! Here’s a Special Gift”
• “Long Time No See—Come Back and Save 20%”
• “Where Have You Been? Let’s Reconnect”

Conclusion: The Power of a Strong Subject Line

Your subject line is the gateway to your email’s success. By keeping it concise, adding personalization, and using engaging tactics like humor or urgency, you can improve your open rates and drive more engagement with your audience. Don’t be afraid to A/B test and refine your subject lines for maximum impact.

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