The Open-Rate Playbook: Catchy Email Subject Lines That Get Clicked

Why Should Your Business Use Catchy Email Subject Lines?

When you send a marketing email, your main goal is to make a great impression and intrigue people to click on it and read what’s inside. To overcome this email marketing challenge, you must work on your copy game, as 35% of people admit that they open emails based solely on the subject. In fact, the average open rate across different industries is a mere 17.92%. It’s crucial you come up with catchy email subject lines so your messages are well-received and do not end up in the spam folder, although it’s easier said than done.

There are different subject lines depending on the email marketing list group you want to reach and the type of email marketing campaign you are launching. So, let’s dive deeper into the intricate world of the best email subject lines.

How Do You Craft A Powerful Email Subject Line?

1. Create Urgency

Catchy email subject lines create urgency without including spam words. Let’s say you have a limited-time-only offer. One of the best email marketing practices is to make your email sound urgent. Even if prospects are not considering buying yet, they may think about it after seeing a great opportunity. However, don’t use words like “buy,” “sale,” or “deal,” as they have been used limitlessly by marketers, and people often perceive them as spam. Try to be more creative and fun with your copy and generate urgency only when you have a decent deal to offer.

2. Personalize It

If you want to accelerate business growth and boost sales and engagement, personalization is key. For starters, use merge tags to add each recipient’s name at the beginning of your emails or even the subject line. You can go one step further by wishing people a happy birthday and offering them discounts on their special day. Post-purchase follow-ups are another way to personalize your emails and make your customers feel valued and taken care of. You will enjoy better open rates when you elevate your personalization game.

3. Make It Clear And Concise

Keep it short, clear, and simple—that’s how you write a good email subject line. People nowadays check their emails around five times a day. This means that you have the opportunity to make them discover your messages on time. To do that, though, your subject should not exceed 40–60 characters, which is around 9 words. Data actually shows that emails with 50-character subject lines have 75% higher click-through rates and 12% higher newsletter open rates.

4. Grab The Attention

How can you make your email subject line so catchy and interesting that people can’t help but click on it? There are a few elements you can try out. A trending news story, an insightful statistic, a burning question, or your request for people’s help can all generate interest. On the contrary, focusing on your product and employing salesy tactics are not very smart email marketing solutions. Your subject should be all about your prospects and their needs and challenges. You first have to establish thought leadership and expertise before you promote your services.

5. Show The Value

Catchy newsletter titles usually focus on the value of the email and your services. People in your email marketing list don’t want to hear about features but about benefits. They want to see how your product will improve their lives and business. If there’s nothing in it for them, why open your email? Generic titles simply push emails toward the trash bin.

6. Use Emojis

Headers often include emojis to engage and intrigue prospects. However, emojis should not be a replacement for words. If you decide to use them, add only one per subject line as a supplement. And keep in mind that different operating systems use varying versions of the same emoji. This means that you should test the emojis you use and ensure they show properly across all systems.

7. Make It Descriptive

Sure, literary fluff and funny slogans are cute, but really good emails get to the gist by being specific and descriptive. Also, you should incorporate keywords, as many people filter their inboxes based on them. You may not know what filters they’re using, but you have the opportunity to send your email to a folder your prospects will review soon. Iterative testing helps you check the open rates various keywords generate so you know which ones you should remove from your list.

8. Ask Questions

Incorporating questions in your email subject lines doesn’t mean that you expect an answer from your audience. By tackling a relevant and burning subject, you send the message that you will answer this question inside your email. You can offer your readers a sneak peek of your solution and then direct them to your website to read articles and download free eBooks.

9. Pique People’s Curiosity

If you want to improve your email marketing campaign effectiveness, you must create a curious subject line. To do that, you should know the interests and pain points of your audience. For example, if you are unveiling a new webinar about lead generation, you should send a series of emails giving away very little information. You may use the phrases “It’s coming soon!” or “Are you ready for it?”

10. Add A CTA

Professional email marketing utilizes CTAs not only in the main body of an email but also in the title. Why? Simply because a carefully crafted CTA directs prospects on what to do and gives them a clear idea about what their message is about. But CTAs should be used strategically. Don’t try to create fake and irrelevant urgency or clickbait. Add an urgent CTA only when you actually have an exclusive offer since overusing urgency can tire your audience.

The 14 Best Email Subject Lines By Category

1. Fear Of Missing Out

Did you know that 60% of millennial customers respond to FOMO emails within 24 hours? The combination of urgency and scarcity pushes them to make a purchase quickly so as not to miss out on the opportunity.

Subject line examples:

• Hurry, this discount won’t last forever!
• Be quick; our new product just dropped!
• Wanna be the first to win our exclusive discount?
• Snug the early bird discount before it’s too late!
• Renew your subscription today and get a secret gift!
• Check out today and double your points!
• Last 24 hours for 30%!
• FREE SHIPPING on all orders for 24 hours!
• [Webinar] Only 15 seats remain!

2. Curiosity

Once you generate new leads, you must find a way to engage them and increase your email open rates. Curious email subject lines usually include open-ended questions and obscure information. Therefore, people get curious about the email content and click on it to see what it is about.

Subject line examples:

• *Don’t open this email*
• Take a look to discover your gift!
• These products for THOSE prices? Yes, it’s real!
• How to get a VIP seat for 30% less.
• Ready to be dazzled? Our new product is out!
• Discover the secrets to masterful lead generation!
• A special guest is coming to this week’s podcast episode.
• Download your FREE eBook today!
• We’ve been waiting for months to announce this…

3. Funny

One of the many benefits of email marketing is that it can inform your audience while entertaining them. Using funny and catchy email subject lines ensures you get more clicks, as people tend to enjoy them. Before sending mass emails, segment your audience based on their profiles and enrich your emails with a strong dash of humor.

Subject line examples:

• Spreadsheets never felt so good.
• Witches be crazy, and so is this box! (Halloween edition)
• This email is littered with options.
• Oops! Did you forget something?
• Let’s taco ’bout something important.
• Don’t click this email… Just kidding, please do!
• Tickle your funny bone with our offer!
• Pizza party or discount? Tough choice!
• Banana peel slip-up: Don’t miss our deals!

4. Cold Email

People tend to filter their inboxes so they can prioritize urgent and important messages over cold emails. However, when you add a catchy cold email subject line, you increase your open rate chances. By being just the right balance of intriguing and urgent, you create curiosity. And nobody can resist curious reads. Also, don’t forget to personalize your cold email to boost its chances of getting opened.

Subject line examples:

• Hey [Name], a question about your Q4 goals.
• Let me show you how to increase your sales in 15 minutes.
• If you’re struggling with this, you’re not alone.
• Tired of salespeople who never give up?
• Your competitor is outranking you. Here’s how to beat them.
• Would you be interested in our new webinar?
• Looking for a smart way to increase your revenue/sales?
• Check out what experts/other users say about you.
• Are you feeling helpless? Here’s how we can assist.

5. Sales And Flash Sales

Whether you have a new product being released or an exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime deal, you should pick the best email subject lines for sales. You can set an email drip campaign as a countdown until the expiration date. This way, not only do you generate client interest, but you also create a sense of urgency. Flash sales can especially benefit from this tactic, as the goal is to boost sales in a short period of time.

Subject line examples:

• Today Only! Get it now before it’s gone…
• 50% off on all our products—Ends tomorrow!
• Hurry! Last chance to save: Flash sale ends soon.
• Warning: Serious savings ahead. Proceed with caution!
• Last chance: Unbeatable deals for 24 hours only!
• Is this the solution to your problem?
• Sale so good, even your bank account will feel the FOMO!
• Wait, what?! How can you resist a crazy flash sale?
• Get it now or regret it later! Limited-time flash sale!

6. Reminder

Are you just finishing up your market penetration strategy and want to implement engaging email campaigns with eye-catching email subject lines? Reminder emails help you jog people’s memories regarding a new product or discount. Just because you didn’t receive too many orders after your first message doesn’t mean your audience doesn’t care about it. They may have forgotten to check it out, or your email may have ended up in the wrong folder.

Subject line examples:

• The countdown to our Christmas sale is on!
• A reminder that your subscription ends soon!
• Tick-tock! Event time is getting closer!
• Time is running out! Don’t forget to RSVP.
• Ready or not, here it comes! Are you prepared?
• Got a minute? We’d love your feedback.
• Hey, have you had a chance to look at my last email?
• Forgot something? Your cart misses you!
• Keep your essentials stocked: reorder today!

7. Welcome

A welcome email is your first opportunity to connect with your subscribers and establish your credibility. The moment people join your email list, you should send them a message introducing your brand, your culture, and your value. This way, they know what to expect from you and what type of content and insights you’ll be sending regularly. Welcome email subject lines that work increase open rates and engagement and create a personal connection.

Subject line examples:

• You’re in! Welcome to our loving community.
• Thanks for joining us! Let’s get started.
• Your journey begins here: Learn the basics.
• A special welcome gift awaits you inside!
• Let’s get interactive: Your opinion matters to us!
• Welcome! Uncover the inspiration behind our brand.
• VIP status confirmed: Discover your exclusive perks with us.
• Dive into our resources: Tips and tools for success.
• You’ve made a great choice. Welcome aboard!

8. Networking

Sometimes you don’t want to promote your products or boost sales with your catchy email subject lines. You simply want to connect with people and talk to them on a more personal level. It’s not about increasing audience engagement but about developing a connection with a like-minded professional. It could be someone who could help you boost your business or collaborate on a project.

Subject line examples:

• It was a pleasure meeting you at the conference.
• My colleague Ellen mentioned you’re an expert in…
• I enjoyed your talk on PPC directory listings at last week’s event.
• I enjoyed your recent article on content marketing.
• Chris, the ideas you shared about email marketing are fascinating.
• Can you tell me more about your book?
• You know a lot about this topic. Can I ask a few questions?
• Are you available for an informational interview?
• Would you like to be a guest speaker on my podcast?

9. Holiday

Black Friday, Halloween, Christmas, Easter, and the 4th of July are a few of the holidays when you can run a special promotional campaign. During that time, customers actually expect companies to offer amazing discounts. Do you know what else they are prepared to do then? Spend money.

Subject line examples:

• Not your typical Black Friday! We swear.
• It’s giving better than Black Friday deals vibes.
• It’s snowing sales! Take 10% off your next purchase.
• Start your new year off right with 20% off.
• 8 days of savings? Yes, please!
• Awesome April deals hiding inside.
• March madness! Want in on the fun?
• Easter Sale Egg-stravangaza.
• FREE shipping on all orders on the 4th of July.

10. Retargeting

Sometimes people take actions on your website but don’t proceed further. For example, they may add items to their shopping carts but abandon them. Or they may purchase an item and not visit your website again. But based on their purchase, you can promote similar products to pique their interest. Retargeting helps you re-engage with these prospects and remind them about their empty carts and the landing pages they visited. To do that, you must create catchy email subject lines that intrigue them.

Subject line examples:

• Great news! Your favorite item is back in stock at a discounted price.
• You and Cart are meant to be, sooner or later.
• Missed us? Ready for another round of awesome deals?
• Remember us? We’ve got new stuff you need to see!
• Ready to finish your shopping? Your cart is ready.
• Give us another chance; we promise it’ll be worth it!
• Discover what you missed out on…
• POV: When your cart’s in desperate need of closure.
• Remember when you loved us? Want more?

11. Newsletter

Weekly newsletters inform your audience about industry and company news. You can either use the same email subject line every time with minor changes or find new, exciting ones. We think simple, catchy, and concise email openings are better at capturing people’s interest. Just make sure it’s relevant to your content and avoid getting inspiration from clickbait examples.

Subject line examples:

• 10 tips for increasing your conversion rates.
• Only 5 spots left on our online course.
• The best productivity tips for remote workers like you.
• Putting the “fun” in “funnel”: marketing tips that don’t make you yawn.
• If you believe in hypnosis, don’t read this email.
• Does your sales team use this trick?
• What did your first customer teach you?
• 5 ways to avoid feeling overwhelmed this holiday season.
• Feel confident with these resume tips.

12. Personalized

There is science behind deleting messages, but we guarantee you that personalized subject lines make people feel special. In fact, by personalizing your email titles, you increase your open rates and boost sales enablement. Simply put the recipient’s name in the subject line and use colloquial language if your industry allows for it. One example of good business emails is wishing prospects a happy birthday and offering them a small discount for that day.

Subject line examples:

• Happy birthday! Look inside for your surprise.
• John, check out these hand-picked deals for you.
• Maria, you’re a valued customer. Surprise!
• Chris, unlock your personalized success roadmap!
• We’ve got something awesome for you, Reena!
• Discover our exclusive range that matches your unique style, Sylvia!
• I didn’t see your name in the comments!?
• So I’ll pick you up at 7?
• Thanks for your recent purchase, Henry. We think you might like this!

13. Pain Points

When you know who your ideal buyer personas are, you know what challenges they face. Pain point email subject lines tackle these challenges and offer insightful tips and actionable solutions. At first, prospects are curious about your email, and once they read your valuable information, they start trusting your expertise.

Subject line examples:

• Get higher engagement rates with 10 easy hacks.
• Stop wasting resources on buying backlinks.
• Increase click-through rates with 5 handy tips.
• Since we can’t all win the lottery…
• Learn a language by studying only 5 minutes per day.
• Get over your link building issues with these quick fixes.
• Everything you wished to know about web copy but didn’t know where to look.
• What nobody told you about crushing deadlines.
• Where do all your emails go?

14. Attention-Grabbing

Attention-grabbing email subject lines are a combination of every category we mentioned. You basically want to create a sense of urgency to communicate your message, whatever it is. Whether it’s to complete a purchase, sign up for a webinar, or use a discount code, they can help you reach your conversion goals.

Subject line examples:

• Want some more time? It’s on us.
• How we can triple your ROI in just 30 days.
• Say goodbye to average and hello to exceptional.
• This email holds the key to something special!
• Quick question, Mark: Have you seen this?
• Surprise! Your exclusive invitation awaits!
• Still unsure? Let’s see if this can help.
• Have you given up on lead generation techniques? Try this hack.
• Alert: Exciting announcement just for you!

Key Takeaway

Most companies spend time turning one’s ideas into action or bringing in new ideas to generate more or better business through email subject lines. Top email campaigns have a few things in common. Their catchy email subject lines are short, concise, urgent, descriptive, and personalized. Also, they often ask prospects questions, adding powerful CTAs and relevant emojis. But unless you showcase the value of your products or solutions, you may not get many clicks on your emails.

The most effective email campaigns are based on engagement strategies that captivate prospects’ attention, creating a sense of urgency. FOMO and curiosity are two powerful driving forces for people to open an email. The same goes for exclusive offers, reminders, and flash sales. Welcome emails make everyone feel special, while retargeting allows you to recapture the interest of past buyers and those who clicked on a link but never proceeded to purchase.