Crafting email subject lines that drive opens requires both creativity and strategy. An effective subject line captures attention, piques curiosity, and offers a compelling reason to click, while accurately reflecting the email’s content. Here’s how to create subject lines that boost open rates.
Use Personalization
Personalized subject lines have been shown to boost open rates up to 50% as they immediately capture the reader’s attention. Adding the person’s first or last name, or their location to the subject line can positively impact open rates. For example, “John, your fitness plan is ready,” or “John, there’s a new Italian restaurant in Babylon!”

Create Urgency
Using words with a sense of urgency can increase your open rate, but it’s important that you use them wisely. Terms like “urgent” and “important” have been shown to generate open rates above average. Sometimes, even the fear of missing out (FOMO) drives people to take action. For example, “Only 2 Spots Left to Enroll” or “Last Chance: Sale Ends Tonight.”
Ask a Question
Posing intriguing or open-ended questions can spark curiosity and motivate recipients to open the email. For example, “Do you need budgeting tips?”
Keep It Short
It’s always best to keep your subject line brief, ideally 6-10 words or 40-60 characters, while clearly communicating the email’s purpose. Plus, shorter subject lines are easier to read on a mobile device.
Use Numbers
Including numbers in subject lines can capture attention and make the offer feel more tangible. They stand out in busy inboxes and give clear, actionable information. For example, “7 Tips to Help Remove Belly Fat.”
Avoid Spammy Words
Using words like “Free,” “Guaranteed,” or “Act Now” doesn’t always help because they can trigger spam filters. Therefore, it’s best to keep your messaging authentic and trustworthy.
If you need help crafting catchy email subject lines or other content, our team at Electric Bricks is here to help. Contact us today.