Every email begins with a subject line. Whether you work in marketing, IT, or any other field, for sure, you've had to send numerous emails yourself.
Writing a catchy subject line can be frustrating and cause sleepless nights. That's why we have prepared this guide to help you.
You’ll learn effective strategies for writing email subjects that won't go unnoticed. Besides, you’ll gain a clear understanding of what makes a good subject line and what to avoid.
Key Takeaways
Here are the key takeaways if you don't have time to read the entire article:
- An email subject should state or suggest what is inside the email.
- A good marketing email subject should be attention-grabbing without being clickbait.
- Subject lines should be brief, clear, and relevant to the recipient's interests or needs.
- Conduct A/B testing on your email subject lines to determine which one is the top performer.
- Avoid spam words that can trigger spam filters or simply turn off the reader.
Why are Email Subject Lines Important?
A well-written subject line does more than just summarize the email content. It is extremely important in determining whether your email will be opened and read (or just ignored).
The sad truth is that your email has to compete with many others for attention in a crowded inbox. An engaging subject line increases the chances of your email being noticed and read. It can also set the tone for the message and help the recipient prioritize its importance.
Having a well-crafted subject line is also crucial for the success of an email campaign. This is why it is best to get assistance from an email writer when needed. Such a tool will enable you to create high-quality subject lines. It directly affects open rates and the return on investment for marketing purposes(keep in mind that the average expected ROI is $40 for every dollar you spend on email marketing.)
Once you've crafted the perfect subject line, don't forget to learn how to start an email to make a great first impression.
For efficient email outreach, you can use an email finder extension can help streamline the process of finding accurate contact information, making your email campaigns even more effective.
How to Write Great Subject Lines?
When you're writing an email, you should think about your message and who you're sending it to. A catchy subject line will help your message stand out and get noticed.
Whether you're writing a newsletter, running an email campaign, or just trying to reach someone, it's important to keep a few things in mind:
- Be Concise: For effective email communication, keep your subject lines brief and powerful. Stick to 50-60 characters to ensure full visibility on mobile devices where most people read emails.
- Maintain Clarity: Your email subject line should be specific and avoid vagueness or ambiguity. A clear subject line helps in categorizing and searching and ensures trust.
- Make it Relevant: Customize your email subject line based on your audience's interests, needs, or actions. This is especially crucial for marketing emails to improve open rates. For workplace emails, ensure relevance by mentioning current projects, deadlines, or recent meetings.
- Use a Call to Action: Consider including a call to action (CTA) in your email subject line if it is appropriate. This tactic is effective in marketing and sales emails, as it urges the recipient to take a specific action, such as “Register Now,” “Claim Your Offer,” or “Read Our Latest Report.”
- Avoid Spammy Words: Certain words and phrases can trigger spam filters or simply turn off the reader. Avoid using overly promotional phrases, such as "100% free" or "0 risk". Also, be mindful of CAPITALIZING all letters or using excessive exclamation points, as these can come across as spammy.
- Test and Optimize: If you want to improve your subject lines, try doing A/B testing. Send different variations of your subject line to different groups of people and see which one performs better. Then, use this feedback to fine-tune your approach and improve your email campaign.
Now that we've covered the essential practices for writing an email let's move on to the list of great subject lines you can try. And, if you're looking for a quick and effective way to craft professional emails, a free AI email writer can streamline the process while maintaining quality.
Best Subject Lines for Emails
To make things easier, we've divided this list into separate categories since there are many types of emails you could write.
Persuasive Subject Lines for Sales and Marketing
When it comes to marketing, catchy email subject lines are everything. With the average marketer sending 2-3 emails daily, there is a significant opportunity for impact.
That's why we're starting with this category. We'll give you some examples that you can use to get inspired. However, remember that personalization and relevance to your audience are key here.
- "Unlock Exclusive Savings Today Only!"
- "Ready to Boost Your ROI? Let’s Talk."
- "🚀 Skyrocket Your Performance with This Tool"
- "Secrets to Doubling Your Conversion Rate 🤫"
- "Last Chance: Claim Your Spot in Our Webinar"
- "🌟 Elevate Your Brand: Secrets Revealed Inside!"
- "Here’s an Exclusive Offer Just for You"
- "Be the First to Experience [New Product]"
- "How We Helped [Company Name] Increase Sales by 70%"
- "Discover the Future of [Industry] Today"
- "Join the Elite: Exclusive Access to Premium Features"
- "Exclusive Sneak Peek: Revolutionary [Service] Launch!"
- "Transform Your Strategy with Our [Product/Service]"
- "Your Competitors Are Ahead – Here’s Why"
- "Open for a Special Surprise Inside!"
- "Revolutionize Your [Specific Task] with [Product]"
- "Elevate Your [Skill] with Our Secret Formula"
- "See What Everyone in [Industry] Is Talking About"
- "Next-Level [Industry] Strategies: Exclusive Access"
- "Act Fast: Exclusive Discount Ends Midnight!"
- "[First Name], Grow Your Business with These Tips"
- "Your Blueprint for Unmatched [Industry] Success"
- "Get Ahead: [Industry Trend] Tips Inside!"
- "Limited Spots Left for Our Exclusive Event"
- "[First Name], Don’t Miss These Insider Insights!"
- "Experience the Difference: [Product/Service] Awaits"
- "🔥 Hot Off the Press: [Industry] Trends Inside!"
- "Elevate Your [Skill/Process] with Our Expert Guide"
- "Boost Your [Specific Benefit] Today – Find Out How"
- "Exclusive Insights for [Industry] Leaders"
Take a look at the subject lines provided above and ask yourself - is there anything you could use and customize to enhance your marketing?
Consider the product or service you offer and think about the benefits you can provide to your customers.
Newsletters and Content Updates
According to OptinMonster, 79% of B2B marketers consider email to be the most effective channel for distributing content.
There are several benefits to gain here. We’ll aim to provide a well-rounded mix of industry insights, expert opinions, and the latest trends. This will ensure valuable content that engages your customers and encourages them to read your emails.
Here are some of the best email subject lines for newsletters and content updates:
- "This Week's Must-Reads: Insights for [Your Audience]"
- "📰 Your Monthly Digest: Trends, Tips, and Tales"
- "Exclusive Content Alert: Your [Industry/Topic] Update!"
- "[Month] Insights: Stay Ahead in [Industry/Field]"
- "Your Personalized News Round-Up: What Matters Most"
- "Breaking News in [Industry/Field]: Must-Know Updates"
- "Weekly Wrap-Up: Top Stories You Can't Miss"
- "🌟 Special Feature: Expert Opinions on [Hot Topic]"
- "Your A-Z Guide: This Month in [Topic/Industry]"
- "New in [Month]: Key Trends and Analysis"
- "🎓 Masterclass Moments: Monthly [Topic] Breakthroughs"
- "[Month]: A Journey Through [Industry/Topic] Mastery"
- "Your Interactive Guide: Navigating [Topic] Today"
- "Frontline Insights: [Topic] from the Experts"
- "🎉 Our Latest [Product/Service]: First Look Inside!"
- "[Brand/Name] Bulletin: Your [Frequency] Update"
- "Emerging Trends: Stay Informed, Stay Ahead"
- "👀 Peek Behind the Curtain: [Topic] Insights Revealed"
- "🚀 Blast Off: New Strategies for [Your Audience]"
- "Exclusive Analysis: [Topic] in Today’s World"
- "Monthly Mastery: Elevate Your [Skill/Industry Knowledge]"
- "Your [Frequency] Dose of [Industry/Topic] Wisdom"
- "Highlights: [Topic/Event] Recap & Learnings"
- "🌐 Global Perspectives: [Topic] Across the World"
- "Insider's Look: This Month in [Industry/Field]"
- "Next-Level Know-How: Tips for [Audience/Profession]"
- "🥇 Golden Nuggets: Rare Insights on [Topic]"
- "Unlock the Secrets: [Monthly/Weekly] Wisdom Insides"
- "[Topic]: Transforming Ideas into Actions"
- "Cutting-Edge Concepts in [Field/Industry] Revealed"
Once again, remember these should serve as inspiration.
Think about the value you want to provide your audience and the type of content that interests them. Tailor the email subject lines to match your brand and the specific content you'll be sharing.
Also, consider using personalization techniques like including the recipient's name or referencing their previous interactions with your brand. Personalized subject lines can make a notable difference in the results of marketing campaigns.
Seasonal and Holiday-Themed Emails
Seasonal and holiday-themed emails are a fantastic opportunity to connect with your audience in a more personal and festive way. According to statistics by Campaign Monitor, email is responsible for 20% of online holiday site visits.
This indicates that incorporating the spirit of the season or holiday into your email subject lines can significantly boost engagement.
Whether it’s a special offer for Christmas, a heartfelt message for Thanksgiving, or a Black Friday special discount, these emails allow you to tap into the current mood that your audience is experiencing.
Here are 30 unique and engaging subject lines for seasonal and holiday-themed emails:
- "🎄 Unwrap Our Exclusive Christmas Deals!"
- "Spooky Surprises Await This Halloween 🎃"
- "Ring in the New Year with Our Special Offer 🎉"
- "🌷 Spring into Savings: Seasonal Discounts Inside!"
- "A Thanksgiving Thank You from [Your Brand/Company]"
- "🏖️ Summer Specials: Hot Deals for Cool Times!"
- "Fall in Love with Our Autumn Collection 🍂"
- "Get Ready for Valentine’s Day: Romantic Gifts Inside 💖"
- "🌏 Earth Day Special: Go Green with [Your Brand]"
- "St. Patrick’s Day Luck: Find Your Pot of Gold 🍀"
- "🍁 Harvest the Savings: Autumn Deals Just for You"
- "Welcoming Spring: Fresh Finds for the New Season"
- "👻 Ghostly Good Deals: Halloween Flash Sale!"
- "❤️ Feel the Love: Valentine’s Day Exclusives"
- "🏡 Home for the Holidays: Cozy Deals Inside"
- "Light Up Your Christmas 🌟"
- "🎊 New Year, New Deals: Start Fresh with Us"
- "Next-Level Cyber Monday: Future Tech at Present Prices"
- "🌞 Sizzling Summer Sale: Hot Discounts Await"
- "🖤 Black Friday Exclusive: Once-a-Year Deals Inside!"
- "Cyber Monday Countdown: Epic Savings Start Now! 🚀"
- "24-Hour Cyber Steals: Grab Them Before They're Gone"
- "🌐 Cyber Monday Specials: Tech Deals You Can't Resist"
- “Next-Level Cyber Monday: Future Tech at Present Prices”
- "Cyber Monday: Top Tech at Jaw-Dropping Prices"
- "🛍️ Shop the Sale of the Year!"
- "Unlock Cyber Monday Secrets: Exclusive Offers Inside"
- "Black Friday Early Access 🚪💥"
- "Countdown to Black Friday: Daily Deals Revealed!"
- "Once-in-a-Year: Black Friday Mega Discounts!"
Seasonal and holiday-themed email subject lines should capture the essence of the occasion, resonating with the emotions and celebrations of the season.
These subject lines are crafted to evoke a sense of festivity and excitement, encouraging your audience to engage with your emails and celebrate the season with your brand.
Both personalization and timing are essential here.
Daily Communications
We have already discussed marketing and newsletters. Now, let's focus on our daily tasks.
Your daily emails play a crucial role in maintaining ongoing projects, collaborations, and professional relationships. A well-crafted subject line can significantly impact the response rate of your emails.
Here are some examples of good email subject lines for daily communications:
- "Quick Update on [Project Name] Progress"
- "[Meeting Date] Agenda - Your Input Needed"
- "Follow-Up: Today's Meeting Takeaways"
- “Today’s Top Priorities”
- “Update Requested: Status of [Task/Project]”
- "Available for a Quick Chat Today?"
- "New Idea for [Project/Task]"
- "Seeking Your Feedback on [Topic/Document]"
- "Important: Change in [Policy/Procedure]"
- "Reminder: [Task/Event] Deadline Approaching"
- "Thank You for Today's Discussion"
- "Clarification Needed on [Issue/Query]"
- "Celebrating [Team Member]’s Achievement!"
- "Brief Update: [Key Topic/News]"
- "Confirming Receipt of [Document/Email]"
- "Your Help Needed in [Task/Project]"
- "New [Resource/Document] Available for Review"
- "Re: [Previous Conversation Topic]"
- "Schedule Confirmation: [Meeting/Event] on [Date]"
- "Insight Needed on [Specific Issue/Query]"
- "Today's Objectives"
- "Out of Office: [Date Range] Availability"
- "Completed: [Task/Project] Update"
- "Join Us in Welcoming [New Team Member/Role]"
- "Your Expertise Needed: [Topic/Question]"
- "Weekly Check-In"
- "Congratulations on [Achievement/Event]!"
- "Post-Meeting Follow-Up"
- “Collaboration Opportunity: [Project]”
- "Join Our Discussion: [Relevant Topic] Today"
Of course, most of the time, you won't need to worry about writing a catchy subject line when communicating with your colleagues. However, if you're having trouble finding the right words, the examples above can be very helpful.
Event Invitations and Announcements
Creating compelling subject lines for event invitations and announcements is crucial in encouraging attendance. The right subject line can capture the event's essence and ignite potential attendees' curiosity.
Whether you are hosting a webinar, a corporate conference, a networking event, or a casual get-together, your subject line is the first impression. It plays a pivotal role in the success of your event.
Here are 25 engaging and catchy subject lines for event invitations and announcements:
- "You’re Invited: Exclusive [Event Name] on [Date]"
- "🌟 VIP Event Alert: Join Us for [Event Name]!"
- "Save the Date: [Event Name] is Coming Up!"
- "Open for a Special Event Invitation from [Your Company]"
- "Be Our Guest: [Event Name] Awaits You"
- "Exclusive Invite: [Event Name] with [Special Guest/Speaker]"
- "You're on the List: [Event Name] Today"
- "Front Row Seats: Register for [Event/Webinar Name]"
- "Celebrate with Us: [Event/Occasion] on [Date]"
- "🎉 Party Time: Join Us for [Event] at [Location]"
- "Announcing: [Event Name] – A [Type of Event] Not to Miss!"
- "Alert: Secure Your Spot for [Event Name]"
- "Your Invitation to a Unique [Event Type] Experience"
- "Join the Conversation: [Event Topic/Theme] Event"
- “Ready to Innovate? [Event Name] Workshop Awaits!“
- "Unveiling: [Event Name] – [Date/Location]"
- "Mark Your Calendar: [Event Name] You Can’t Miss"
- "Get Ready: [Event Name] – Tickets Selling Fast!"
- "🚀 Launch Event: Be Part of [Event/Product Launch]"
- "Let’s Connect: [Networking Event Name] on [Date]"
- "New Event Alert: [Event Name] – Join Us!"
- "Countdown to [Event]: Grab Your Early Access"
- "Step Inside: [Event Name] for [Target Audience]"
- "[Event Name]: A Journey into [Event Theme/Topic]"
- "🔔 Reminder: Don’t Miss [Event Name] on [Date]"
Event invitations and announcements require subject lines that are not only informative but also engaging and exciting. Your goal is to create anticipation and enthusiasm for the event, encouraging recipients to learn more and ultimately attend.
Keep in mind the nature of the event, your target audience, and what would appeal to them when you create subject lines.
Follow-Up and Reminder Emails
Follow-up and reminder emails play a crucial role in maintaining communication and ensuring tasks or events are on track. These lines should be clear, direct, and gently nudge the recipient to take action or remember important information.
Here are 25 great email subject lines for follow-up and reminder emails:
- "Following Up: Next Steps Post-Meeting"
- "Reminder: Project Deadline Approaching on [Date]"
- "Just Checking In: Any Updates on [Topic/Project]?"
- "Recap of Our Last Conversation"
- "[Task/Project] Due Tomorrow"
- "Awaiting Your Response on [Topic/Query]"
- "Upcoming Appointment on [Date]"
- "Quick Follow-Up: [Topic] from Our Last Meeting"
- "Re: [Previous Email Subject] - Awaiting Your Feedback"
- "[Task/Event] Coming Up!"
- "Please Address [Issue/Task]"
- "Have You Had a Chance to Review?"
- "Re: Our Recent Discussion – Awaiting Your Decision"
- "[Task/Event] Deadline Today"
- "Status Update Request on [Project]"
- "Time-Sensitive: Action Needed for [Task/Project]"
- "[Task/Event] Is Approaching"
- "Awaiting Your Input on [Topic/Question]"
- "Gently Reminding: [Document/Task] Needs Your Attention"
- "Quick Reminder: [Event/Meeting] Tomorrow at [Time]"
- "In Case You Missed It: [Important Info/Deadline]"
- "Just a Quick Follow-Up: [Specific Request/Question]"
- "Response Required ASAP"
- "Next Steps for [Project/Task]"
- “Confirming Appointment [Date]”
Automated follow-up and reminder emails are vital for keeping communication channels open and tasks on schedule. These subject lines are designed to be direct yet courteous, ensuring they convey the urgency or importance of the email content.
Personalization, clarity, and a respectful tone are key to making these emails effective.
Educational and Instructional Emails
Educational and instructional emails can be powerful for sharing knowledge, tips, and best practices. They are essential in contexts like online learning, professional development, or customer education.
An educational email should aim to spark curiosity and offer tangible benefits, encouraging recipients to engage with the content and gain new insights or skills.
Here are 20 subject line examples for educational and instructional emails:
- "Master the Art of [Skill] with Our Step-by-Step Guide"
- "Decoding [Skill]: Your Blueprint to Success"
- "🚀 Skyrocket Your Skills: Exclusive [Topic] Mastery Class!"
- "🌟 Transform into a [Topic] Wizard: Expert Tips Inside!"
- "Revolutionize Your Approach to [Skill]"
- "Unlocking [Topic]: A Comprehensive Tutorial"
- "Expert Tips: Enhance Your [Skill/Field] Proficiency"
- "Start Learning: [Course/Topic] Begins Today!"
- "Exclusive Insight: [Industry Expert] on [Topic]"
- "Webinar Invite: Transform Your [Field/Skill]"
- "Your Guide to Becoming a [Profession/Expert] in [Field]"
- "Join Us: [Topic] Q&A Session with Experts"
- "Your Roadmap to Mastering [Topic/Skill]"
- "🚀 Launch Your Learning: [Topic] Starts Now"
- "Exclusive Offer: Advanced Course in [Topic]"
- "🌟 Transform into a [Topic] Wizard: Expert Tips Inside!"
- "Next-Level [Skill]: Tips from Industry Leaders"
- "Today's Lesson: Key Insights in [Topic/Field]"
- "Discover the Secrets of [Skill/Topic] Mastery"
- “Masterclass Alert: Conquer [Topic] with Confidence”
These subject lines are created to clearly articulate the educational value, drawing in learners with the promise of skill enhancement, knowledge gain, or professional growth.
Creative and Fun Subject Lines
Creative and fun subject lines can be a breath of fresh air, enticing recipients to engage with your content. Whether it’s for marketing campaigns, team communications, or customer engagement, a cleverly crafted subject line can enhance the appeal of your email and set a positive, engaging tone.
You can use your favourite quotes from movies or memes. And feel free to add lots of emojis ✌
Here are 17 creative and funny email subject lines:
- "Brewing Something Special for You ☕"
- "You’ve Unlocked the Secret Level 🎮"
- "Spoiler Alert: You’re Going to Love This"
- "Guess What? You’ve Just Hit the Email Jackpot 🎰"
- "Shh… Sneak Peek at Our Secret Sale 🤫"
- "Who Needs a Superhero When You Have These Deals? 💥"
- "Abracadabra! Poof – Deals Appear ✨"
- "Ready to Be Amazed? This Isn't Your Average Email 🤫"
- "This Email is Like a Box of Chocolates 🍫"
- "You've Struck Gold! Exclusive Offer Inside 🌟"
- "Like Finding a Four-Leaf Clover: Lucky Deals for You 🍀"
- "Donut Miss Out on These Sweet Deals 🍩"
- "Feeling Lucky? Open for a Surprise 🎲"
- "We’re Not Bluffing: These Offers are Ace! ♠️"
- "No Tricks, Just Treats: Spooky Good Deals Inside 👻"
- "Catch Them While You Can: Deals Faster than a Cheetah 🐆"
- "Like a Comet: Our Flash Sale is Here and Gone 💫"
These subject lines are designed to infuse a sense of fun and excitement into your emails, using creative language, emojis 🌟, and playful references to spark interest and stand out in any inbox.
Remember, the key is to align the tone with your brand voice and audience preferences to maximize engagement.
FAQ
In case you still have some questions:
Q: What Makes an Email Subject Line Effective in a Professional Setting?
A: Make sure the catchy email subject line is also concise, personalized, and relevant to the recipient to increase the chances of them opening it.
Q: How Long Should an Ideal Work Email Subject Line Be?
A: Aim for shorter sentences of 50-60 characters to ensure readability, especially on mobile devices. Use fewer words to express your thoughts more effectively.
Q: Can Humor Be Used in Professional Email Subject Lines?
A: Yes, witty email subject lines can be used in appropriate contexts, such as internal communications and team-building messages, but it's important to use them sparingly and considerately. Keep in mind that not everyone may appreciate or enjoy witty subject lines in their emails.
Q: Are There Any Words or Phrases to Avoid in Work Email Subject Lines?
A: Remove sales language, jargon, and anything that may be seen as spam or deceptive. Avoid giving the impression that you solely aim to sell something to your audience.
Q: How Important Is Personalization in Email Subject Lines?
A: Personalization is very important and plays a significant role in marketing and daily emails. It can increase open rates, so include the recipient's name or specific references to their interests or needs when possible.
Q: Should Subject Lines Be Different for Internal Versus External Emails?
A: Emails sent internally can be more casual in tone, while external emails should maintain a professional and clear style. Use your best judgment.
Q: Can Asking a Question in the Subject Line Increase Engagement?
A: Yes, including questions in emails can pique curiosity and increase open rates. Consider using it in your A/B testing campaign.
Q: Should Email Subject Lines Be Tested for Effectiveness?
A: Testing different subject lines with a segment of your audience can provide valuable insights into what works best. It's a good idea to experiment with various subject lines, formats, and structures of your emails.
Q: Are There Any Tools That Can Help Craft Effective Email Subject Lines?
A: Yes, there are many modern email marketing platforms and online tools that offer subject line analysis and A/B testing features. If you're using a dedicated tool for email marketing, you'll likely have an easy way to test different variables.
Final Words
Choosing the right subject line can be challenging, but it's a skill that can be learned.
Remember to experiment with various formats, styles, and tones to find what resonates best with your audience. By doing so, you can write good subject lines that will elevate your email game.
P.S. If you want to improve your daily work in areas beyond marketing, check out AI-powered productivity tools like jamie, to optimize your meetings and other everyday tasks.
Good luck!
Leo is the Head of Growth at Jamie, a company on a mission to eliminate busy work for modern knowledge workers. With a deep-rooted passion for self-development, SEO, growth strategies, and product-led growth (PLG), Leo spearheads all growth initiatives at Jamie. His expertise drives Jamie’s journey toward scaling impact, focusing on innovative growth strategies that align with the company's vision.
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