What are the best practices for subject lines in email marketing?

Being concise and including personalization in subject lines is critical in email marketing because it directly impacts open rates and engagement. A concise subject line quickly conveys the message and captures the reader's attention. When subject lines are brief, they are also more likely to be fully displayed on various devices, including mobile, where screen space is limited.

Incorporating personalization, such as the recipient's name or tailored content relevant to their interests or previous interactions, significantly enhances the appeal of the email. This personal touch can make the email stand out in a crowded inbox, making recipients feel valued and more inclined to engage with the content. Research shows that personalized subject lines can lead to higher open rates, ultimately resulting in more effective campaigns.

In contrast, making subject lines as long as possible can be counterproductive, as they may get cut off in inboxes, leading to a loss of interest. Using jargon and technical terms can alienate recipients who may not be familiar with the terminology, causing confusion rather than engagement. Repeating the brand name multiple times can come across as spammy or desperate and does not add any meaningful context or value to the subject line, which could deter opening the email.