Top 10 Tips for Writing Email Subject Lines That Convert

Crafting an email subject line is no small feat—it’s the make-or-break moment for your email campaign. In fact, 47% of people decide whether to open an email based on the subject line alone. Ready to take your subject line game to the next level? Here are 10 proven tips to help you create subject lines that convert.

1. Why Subject Lines Matter

Your subject line is the first thing your recipient sees. It’s the gateway to your email content and determines whether your email gets opened or ignored. Think of it as your headline—it needs to grab attention and spark curiosity.

A great subject line not only boosts your open rates but sets the tone for the rest of your email campaign.

2. Keep It Short and Sweet

Attention spans are short, and inboxes are crowded. Aim for subject lines with 6–10 words or fewer than 50 characters. Shorter subject lines ensure your message isn’t cut off on mobile devices or email previews.

Example:

  • "Boost Your ROI Today"
  • "Top 5 Tips for Better Emails"

3. Make It Personal

Add a touch of personalization to make your subject lines more relevant. Include the recipient’s name, location, or even their past behavior. Personalized subject lines can increase open rates by up to 22%.

Examples:

  • "John, Your Exclusive Discount Awaits"
  • "New York Residents: Save 20% Now!"

4. Use Numbers to Stand Out

Numbers help create specificity and grab attention. Use them to highlight lists, statistics, or offers.

Examples:

  • "Top 10 Email Marketing Tips"
  • "Save 15% This Weekend Only!"

Why it works: Numbers provide clarity and set expectations for the content inside.

5. Create Urgency or Scarcity

Subject lines that emphasize urgency or scarcity motivate action. Tap into your audience’s fear of missing out (FOMO).

Examples:

  • "Hurry! Sale Ends in 24 Hours"
  • "Only 5 Spots Left – Reserve Yours Now"

Urgency makes the reader feel compelled to act immediately, increasing open rates.

6. Tap Into Curiosity

Intrigue your audience by sparking their curiosity. A well-crafted mystery can encourage them to click to learn more.

Examples:

  • "You Won’t Believe What’s Inside"
  • "The Secret to Higher Open Rates Revealed"

Tip: Make sure to deliver on the promise of your subject line to maintain trust.

7. Avoid Spam Triggers

Steer clear of words and symbols that might send your email to the spam folder. Overuse of words like “Free,” “Win,” or excessive punctuation (!!) can harm deliverability.

Instead of: "Win Big with This Free Offer!!!"
Try: "Your Exclusive Gift Awaits – Claim Now."

8. Test and Optimize with Tools

Don’t guess—test! Use tools like A/B testing or subject line graders to see which subject lines perform best.

For instance, test:

  • "Increase Engagement by 30% Today"
  • Against: "Boost Your Engagement Rates Now."

Analyze the results and refine your approach over time.

9. Add Emojis (When Appropriate)

Emojis can help your subject line pop in a crowded inbox. Use them sparingly and ensure they align with your brand’s tone.

Examples:

  • "🚀 Launch Your Marketing to New Heights"
  • "🎉 Exclusive Invite Inside – Don’t Miss Out!"

But remember: Overusing emojis can make your email look unprofessional.

10. Align the Subject Line with the Email Content

A misleading subject line might get clicks, but it harms trust. Your subject line should match the content of your email.

For example:
If your subject line says "Exclusive Discount – Today Only!" ensure there’s a discount waiting inside.

Final Thoughts

Your email subject line is more than just a sentence—it’s your chance to make a first impression. Whether you’re crafting a listicle, creating urgency, or personalizing the message, the key is to always think about what will resonate with your audience.

Start experimenting with these 10 tips today, and watch your email open rates soar!