In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, your readers are bombarded with information. As a result, capturing their attention swiftly and effectively has never been more important. Well-crafted subject lines are important tools for ensuring that your messages don’t get lost in the noise.
Subject lines serve as the gatekeepers to your content. A well-written subject line can significantly increase engagement by telling the reader what to expect, what they need to do and whether the content is worth their time.
Guidelines for Writing Effective Subject Lines
1. Include a verb. Verbs add dynamism and clarity. A subject line with a verb communicates action and makes your message more compelling
- Pay Raise Approved
- How We Can Decrease Overhead to Increase Profits
- Sales Exceed Targets
2. Be clear and direct. Internal emails should get straight to the point and capture the gist of the message. If you have trouble finding the main point, you might be trying to say too much in one message. You might find it easier if you turn your message into two or three messages that are each easier for the reader to read and act on.
- Team Meeting Tomorrow at 10 am
- Project Update Needed by EOD
- Weekly Progress Report
3. Clearly Define the Message Type
- FYI: for a Non-critical message
- Action Required: When you need something done
- URGENT: for time-sensitive content
4. Use agreed upon acronyms with your team to manage expectations.
- EOM: this means end of message, no need to open. Place this at the end of a short but complete subject line
- NRN: No response necessary. This might mean no need to say thank you
5. Make it easy for your reader to file and retrieve your message. For example, if you’re communicating about a project, name the project first, followed by your contribution.
- ABC Project: Can I change a specification?
- Annual Conference: Updated Invitation List
Another great idea is to write your subject line last, after you’ve composed the body of your message and you can more clearly see the main point.
Mastering the art of writing great subject lines can significantly impact how your message is received. By incorporating verbs, being clear and direct, telling readers the kind of message you are sending and managing their expectations by using acronyms, you increase the chances that your email will be opened and read. And in a world where everyone is vying for attention, these small tweaks can get you the responses you need.
