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Q: Are subject lines in emails really all that important?
A: Yes! Absolutely!
Here are some stats to prove it:
Almost 50% of email recipients will decide if your email is worth opening based on the subject line alone.
Almost 70% will send it immediately to spam if the subject line looks too spammy.
Effective subject lines can make a difference!
Key Questions & Strategies
When sending an email, keep in mind the recipient:
Who will read this email? Customer, coworker, stranger, etc.
Why are you sending this email? To share information? Or is action needed?
Do you need an urgent response? If yes, be clear.
Does the email seem like spam? Sales emails, unknown senders, not personal, etc.
According to some proven email marketing techniques:
Simple and short is best. You need to catch your recipient's attention in 7 seconds or less, so keep the subject between 35 and 50 characters.
And if you're actually sending a marketing email:
Questions can capture attention. Ask a question that addresses the recipient's needs: "Looking for the perfect Mother's Day gift?"
Explain what's in it for the recipient. Make the recipient aware of the benefits they can get from opening the email: "15% Off All Skateboards!"
Example 1: Work Email
Response Needed by 4 pm — Budget Approval
Sender: an accountant to their client
Why is it effective?
Highlights action needed from the recipient
References the related project
Includes a sense of urgency
Did you know?
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Example 2: Job Application
Account Coordinator — Swiftshoes Ltd. — Ref # 34573 — Fatima Knight
Sender: job applicant to a recuiter
Why is it effective?
Clear and to the point
Makes it easy for the recipient to identify you
Includes requested information
Take Action
It is easy for your emails to be ignored, skimmed, lost, or accidentally deleted.
If you want don't want the recipient to treat our email like spam, remember to:
This Byte has been authored by
Kassie Dwarika
Director of Content Programs | Debate Coach