Crafting a Subject Line to Get Attention
Nancy Molloy "Workforce Contributor"
Each of us gets volumes of email daily, and one could easily overlook or delete an important email if the subject line does not stand out. The subject line should reveal the heart of the message. It’s that simple. If the topic is of interest or the specific message is relevant to the reader, it is likely that your email will be read.
Conversely, if you neglect to craft an appropriate subject line that gets the attention of the recipient, your email will likely end up in the trash or be labeled as spam. Following are some basic tools for writing a subject that makes it more likely that your email will be read:
Do write a subject that reflects the content of the email.
Do change the subject line in an evolving email chain. For example, if the first exchange asks for availability to schedule a meeting, the subject line might read, "Need your availability for meeting on June 21". Once the meeting is confirmed, the subject line in the follow-up email should change to reflect, "Meeting confirmed for June 21". In this way, the subject line honors the content, the purpose of the message is clear at a glance, and the email is searchable by subject line.
Do write in standard English using correct grammar since business email should be treated as a formal encounter.
Do proofread and spell-check the subject line.
Do not use unusual symbols in the subject line or the email may end up in the spam folder, never to be seen again. Did you know that exclamation marks or all capital letters in the subject line are among the top spam flags? Use at your own risk, and preferably not at all!
Utilizing these simple tools will best help you to communicate your message and ensure that the recipient reads your email.
Nancy Molloy
Complistaff, Inc.
973-486-0000
973-486-0805
nancy.molloy@complistaff.com
www.complistaff.com