As an email marketer, you’re constantly seeking a balance between the right amount of text, the perfect images, and buttons that drive clicks. But before clicks and purchases even begin, you need to ensure your customers are willing and excited enough to open your emails.
If you feel like you’ve tried everything and your open rates still aren’t going up, it can be frustrating, to say the least. However, at Email By Design, we’ve seen how mastering how to write subject lines can guarantee you get more eyes on your emails and ultimately, on your website. We've shared our top tips below for you...
Calling out their name
Did you know that you can include your customers’ first names in your email subject lines? Just like you would include their name at the start of an email, using the name property tag, {{ first_name }} in your subject can personalise their experience from the get-go. It can also make them more attentive to your emails. When paired with the right text, such as “We picked this for you” or “We know you’ll love this,” it can drive up those open rates.
Be careful, however. This tactic can easily begin to feel repetitive, especially when used too often. Try to break it up with other subject lines to guarantee your customers don’t become desensitised.
Don’t overshare too quickly
Your subject line is your gateway to your email, but you don’t want it to give everything away. Doing this means customers who aren’t initially interested, won’t find a reason to open.
Work on telling your story and getting your point across. But, stay elusive at the same time. For example, instead of saying 10% off the entire range, try something like “A special offer inside.” Instead of “Discover our new product” try “Something exciting has arrived.” You can even swap out text such as, “A note from our founder” to read “A special message for you.”
While only small changes, each leaves the reader wanting to know more, making open rates grow.
Use eye-catching emojis
When customers are receiving so many emails, you need to stand out! One of the easiest ways to do this is by adding a pop of colour to your subjects with emojis. We recommend playing with a combination of emojis, trying some popular and less common ones.
Popular emojis (such as hearts, thumbs ups and stars) can create a sense of familiarity, helping your audience feel comfortable with opening your email. On the other hand, less frequently used emojis (such as cars, animals or flags) could get your audience's attention quicker.
When using emojis, try to stick to a maximum of two to prevent overkill. Also, check if your chosen emojis remain relevant to your brand. This way your subject lines work in the context of your email.
Remember to be clear
Being elusive is one thing, but lying in your subject lines is another. While you may find speaking about sales, deals and promotions always grants you higher open rates, you shouldn’t use bait tactics to encourage opens. Sure, it may work the first few times. However, before long, it will build a relationship of distrust between your brand and your customers.
Always stay on a theme to ensure that once you secure the high open rates, you can retain them.
Keep it short and sweet
Subject lines typically get cut off after 40-60 characters, depending on the email client and device. To make sure your message is fully visible, aim to keep your subject line within that character range.
Don’t overlook preview text
It’s the sneak peek right under your subject line - your chance to add a little extra excitement, tease what's inside or spark curiosity. Make sure to use it to its full potential and leave your readers excited to see what’s in your email.
Need help on how to write subject lines
Email by Design understand the frustration of pouring endless effort into your emails for the open rates to fall short. Ready to make a positive change to your email metrics? Contact us today to get started.
