Here are five subject lines that motivate prospects to open your email without tricking them.
1. The Triplet
Wendy Liebman is a stand up comedian.
Here’s one of her jokes:
“I just got my first bikini. It’s a three-piece: a top, a bottom and a blindfold for you.”
It’s called a triplet: expected trait (a top), expected trait (a bottom), unexpected trait (a blindfold).
You can use a triplet in a subject line.
For example, I sent Chris Voss an email asking him to be a guest on my podcast.
In my subject line I referenced a terrotist from his book (expected), a podcast (expected) and my mother-in-law (unexpected).
Here’s the subject line:
Abu Sayyaf, a podcast and my crazybmother-in-law
2. [Problem]?
Problems get attention. It’s why you avoid puddles when you’re walking.
Example for Gravy: failed payments?
Example for a triathlon coach: Bonking?
Example for an electro light drink for marathon runners: Bloating?
3. via [Common Connection]
Leverage a commonality.
Example: via Tito
Example: triathlons
(Uncommon commonalities like hobbies or interests make people feel more connected.
4. [Job to be Done]
What job does your prospect want to get done?
Example for CaptivateIQ: running monthly payouts
5. [Emotion]
Use an emotionally charged word to tap into what prospects desire or want to avoid. Pique curiosity by creating a cliffhanger.
hate this?
despise this?
loath this?
bitter about this?
crave this?
annoyed by this?
avoiding this?