For local businesses, your email subject line can make or break its success. It’s the first thing your customers see, which plays a significant role in whether they open the email or scroll past it. Crafting subject lines that grab attention without feeling pushy is an art, but it’s one you can master with a few simple strategies.

Why Email Subject Lines Matter

Your email subject line acts as your email’s introduction. A good one sparks curiosity or highlights value, encouraging the recipient to open the email and read more. For small businesses, this can lead to higher engagement, more visits, and, ultimately, more sales.

Tips for Writing Better Subject Lines

1. Keep It Short and Clear
   Aim for a subject line that’s concise yet meaningful. Shorter subject lines are easier to read, especially on mobile devices, where many emails are opened.

2. Highlight the Benefit
   Show customers what they’ll gain by opening the email. For example:

   • “Exclusive: 10% Off This Weekend Only”
   • “Your Guide to Making the Most of [Your Product/Service]”

3. Create a Sense of Urgency
   Time-sensitive offers can encourage immediate action. Phrases like “Today Only” or “Ends Soon” work well when used sparingly.

4. Personalise When Possible
   Including the recipient’s name or referencing a past purchase can make your email feel more relevant. For example:

   • “John, We’ve Got Something Special for You”
   • “Loved Your Last Visit? Here’s a Treat for You”

5. Avoid Spam Triggers
   Words like “Free,” “Buy Now,” or excessive punctuation can cause your email to be flagged as spam. Keep your subject line friendly and professional.

Testing What Works

Testing is key to determining what works for one business and what does not work for another. Many email platforms allow you to run A/B tests, sending two versions of a subject line to a small group of subscribers and seeing which performs better. Use this data to refine your approach over time.

Tools to Simplify Your Email Strategy

Creating great subject lines doesn’t have to take hours. Tools like GoHighLevel can streamline your email campaigns and even offer analytics to help you track your open rates. I can provide access starting at $US97 per month if you don’t have email software.

Start Small and Improve Over Time

Perfecting your subject lines is ongoing, but minor improvements can make a big difference. By focusing on clarity, personalisation, and value, you’ll create emails your customers want to open and engage with.