Why does subject line matter?

Why does subject line matter?

Almost 47% of email receivers open their email based on the subject line. Whereas 69% of email receivers report email as spam based solely on the subject line.

Although the subject line may seem insignificant, it represents your message’s first impression on a subscriber. As click-through rate is completely dependent on people opening your email, therefore you need more people to open your messages to increase sales.

Subject line writing tips:

Capital letters

When you see a subject line with all caps, it comes across as SPAM! AND SHOUTING! But there is a savvy way to use the capitals that can improve the open rate. It is to emphasize the customer. 

Example:

“SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING WORKSHOP — YOU’RE INVITED!” – Sounds like a spam

“Social Media Marketing Workshop — YOU’RE Invited!” – highlights the invitation’s exclusivity and showcases excitement.

Work Their Ego

Everyone like to feel special and not just be a number in a spreadsheet. Use this to your advantage while writing a subject line.

Example:

“You’re Invited! Softball Honor Roll Showcase Camps” – Sounds general

“Happy Birthday from Frank’s Bavarian Inn Club!” – personalized for the birthday.

Exclamation Points 

This method is similar to using capital letters. An exclamation point can either make a great impact or land you in the junk folder.

Example:

“Fabric Advice, Hand-Dyed Velvet, and a Chance to Win Kit!” – suggests spam advertisement.

“Welcome to Trucks & Campers Magazine!” – it is much more engaging.

Ellipses…

Ellipses are a great way to make the customer anticipate what’s in the email. It captures people’s curiosity and makes them feel like their missing out on something if they don’t open the email.

Example:

“Something cool is waiting for you…” – Does not capture curiosity.

“Your SneakPeek Is In…” – Creates an air of mystery.

Use Numbers or Dollar Signs

Putting a dollar sign in the subject line captures attention.

Example:

“Check Out Our Latest Discounts on Furniture” – No number and does not capture the attention.

“Furniture Discounts - $200 Off Select Styles.” – It’s a big number and attracts attention.

Spark Anticipation

Make the subject line enthusiastic and this tactic specifically goes for event/vacation companies. Consider a call-to-action to encourage website trip.

Example:

“Thank you for your visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center!” – No anticipation, message is already in the subject.

“Children’s Hospital Marathon Final Instructions!” – There is an anticipation to know what the instructions are.

Words that work:

Following are some of the words that has received 80% open rate-

“Please read, important, urgent, last day to enter, action required, alert, reminder, information enclosed, update available, announcing”

Also, the timing of your email matters. Keep a record of your “emails sent” schedule, audience, and subject line. There is a possibility some audiences may have a better response rate during different hours of the day or certain days of the week. Having knowledge of this information will help you plan future email better.