Since your subject line is the first thing people read before they choose to open or delete your email, it is extremely important. Since email inboxes are inundated with hundreds of emails per day, catchy and clear email subject lines are more important than ever. You need a subject line that grabs attention and gets people to open and read your email. We have put together 5 common subject line mistakes.

Are you making any of these subject line mistakes?

1. Too Long – Be concise when constructing your subject lines. The length of your subject line should be as short as possible. Anything over 40 characters is way too much.
2. Only 1 Subject Line – You need to create and test multiple subject lines. Not every person is going to respond to the same thing. Make sure you segment your list to better target your subject lines as well as your offers.
3. Spam words – Do not use words that will get your email sent to spam. Make sure to stay away from free, promise, increase, one time, prize, save and special promotion.
4. No Action – Your subject line needs to inspire action. Therefore, you should make sure that all your subject lines have a verb.
5. Generic – People expect a personalized email. With not just their name, but targeted offers that are relevant to them. Creating a generic subject line sent to all is not going to cut it. Send the right subject lines to the right people.

Your subject line helps you stand out in the inbox. Craft it carefully. So, what makes a great subject line? They have urgency, curiosity, and an offer that is relevant to the recipient. Over half of emails are opened on a mobile device, so design your email for mobile. Don’t make the 5 subject line mistakes above.

Subject Line Do’s

Just like with blog titles, using numbers in your subject line is an effective email marketing best practice. You might also consider using puns in your subject lines. They are clever and effective. Will your subject lines get people to open your emails?

Your big takeaways are to avoid the subject line mistakes above and get creative with your subject lines. Consider building curiosity by asking a question. Have you used video in your emails? Using the word video in your subject line has been shown to double your open rates.

Think about your target audience. Who are they? What are they interested in? What are the challenges they are facing this holiday season? Use this information to craft a subject line that teases their interests and gets them to want to read on. Knowing what the people you are targeting want, need and expect help you create awesome subject lines. Are you ready to get started?