Why Email Subject Lines Matter (A Lot)
Here’s the truth: people get WAY too many emails. Your subject line is like the cover of a book – if it’s boring, nobody’s opening it. I’ve tested tons of subject lines over the years, and I’m going to share what actually works.
The 10 Subject Lines That Get Results
1. “Quick question about [specific topic]”
People like helping with quick stuff. The word “quick” tells them it won’t take forever.
Example: “Quick question about tomorrow’s meeting”
Why it works: It’s short, specific, and makes people curious about what you need.
2. “[Name], I need your input on something”
Using someone’s name grabs attention. Asking for their input makes them feel important (because they are!).
Example: “Sarah, I need your input on the new design”
Why it works: Personal + makes them feel valued
3. “Following up on [what you discussed]”
This one’s gold for follow-ups. It reminds them what you talked about without being pushy.
Example: “Following up on our chat about the project deadline”
Why it works: Jogs their memory without sounding annoying
4. “Thanks for [specific thing they did]”
Everyone likes being thanked. Be specific though – “Thanks for everything” is too vague.
Example: “Thanks for sending those files yesterday”
Why it works: Shows you noticed what they did
5. “Can you help me with [one specific thing]?”
Being direct works. Don’t beat around the bush.
Example: “Can you help me with this Excel formula?”
Why it works: Clear, honest, and people like being helpful
6. “I have an idea for [their problem/project]”
This shows you’re thinking about THEM, not just yourself.
Example: “I have an idea for your marketing campaign”
Why it works: You’re offering value, not asking for stuff
7. “[Mutual contact] suggested I reach out”
Name-dropping works (when it’s true!). It builds instant trust.
Example: “Tom mentioned you’re looking for designers”
Why it works: You’re not a random stranger anymore
8. “Quick update: [brief status]”
Perfect for keeping people in the loop without writing a novel.
Example: “Quick update: Report will be ready by 3pm”
Why it works: Gets straight to the point
9. “Do you have 5 minutes this week?”
Asking for a small amount of time is way less scary than “Can we meet?”
Example: “Do you have 5 minutes on Thursday?”
Why it works: Low commitment = higher chance they’ll say yes
10. “Thought you’d find this interesting: [topic]”
Sharing something useful? Lead with that. People love getting helpful info.
Example: “Thought you’d find this interesting: new study on remote work”
Why it works: You’re giving, not taking
What NOT to Do
Seriously, avoid these:
- “URGENT!!!” (unless someone’s actually dying)
- “RE:” when it’s not a reply (sneaky and annoying)
- ALL CAPS EVERYTHING
- Too many emojis 🎉🎊✨🌟💫
- Vague stuff like “Hello” or “Hey”
- Super long subject lines that get cut o…
A Few More Tips
Keep it under 50 characters – Most people read email on their phones now. Long subject lines get chopped off.
Don’t try to be too clever – Your coworker probably doesn’t want a pun in their inbox at 9am on Monday.
Make it scannable – Someone should know what your email’s about without opening it.
Test stuff out – What works with your boss might not work with clients. Pay attention to what gets responses.
The Real Secret
Want to know the REAL secret to good subject lines? Care about the other person’s time. If your subject line helps them decide whether they need to open your email right now or later, you’ve done your job.
Also, if your email is genuinely important or helpful, writing a good subject line gets easier. Nobody wants to open an email that wastes their time.
One More Thing
Don’t overthink this. You’re writing to a real person, not a robot. Write your subject line like you’d tell your friend what the email’s about. “Hey, quick question about Friday” is way better than “Inquiry Regarding Scheduled Event on Fifth Day of Week.”
Just be normal. Be helpful. Be specific. You’ll be fine.