Keep your emails focused on a single topic. If you must publish emails with multiple topics, emphasise the most compelling or time sensitive one in your subject line.
Use numbers to grab the readers attention. For example, "Only 18 Copies Left," "Top 10 Traffic Tips," "5 Green Things to Do Today," "7 Reasons To Start A Blog," etc. When used to support your content and call to action, numbers can add greatly to your open rate.
Create a sense of urgency by using terms such as "RSVP," "Today," "This Weekend Only," and phrases such as "only a few" and "strictly limited". However, avoid using the word "free" - it does tend to trigger the spam filters.
It's important to maintain contact with your readers even when you may not have a specific message or promotion to send out. In those circumstances you can link your subject to a seasonal event. For example Valentine's Day, Mother's Day and National holidays. Similarly you can link to a current news item with your niche - such as "Interest Rates Rise For Bloggers"
A couple of good alternatives to "free" is either "zero cost", "$0 cost" or "no cost".
Matt Garrett
Matt Garrett’s last blog post..Gifts For Giveaways
Hi Matt,
That was three!
"Complimentary" and "gift" also work well.
John
I find that short subject lines do well. I'm sure you've all heard of Frank Kern's famous "Thank You" and "Bad News" subject lines with very high open rates. I've also found that the phrase "I need your help" gets a huge response.
I definitely like this one. This post really gave me some good ideas.
My favorite is the RSVP and related terms. This is effective b/c I've definitely clicked emails with this subject line. At least opened them to explore.
One thing I've noted though is the offer must be REALLY good if you make it "time sensitive" with your subject line. If not, I don't pay as much attention to the person's emails. They are trying to "hype sell" and I think in this market where people want as much value as possible...hype selling isn't the way to go.
Both of my mentors have used this methodology and the offer they talked about was truly time or quantity limited. They also provide lots of free content which makes me believe their offer.
Just some thoughts on this stuff
Cheers and thanks for the idea!
Brad Spencer