subject line best practices

Subject lines — the one part of your email that can make or break your open rate. In this episode, Liz Wilcox, the Fresh Princess of Email Marketing, breaks down exactly how to write subject lines that stand out in crowded inboxes. From real examples to simple writing tips, Liz shows you how to create subject lines that spark curiosity, feel friendly, and get readers clicking. Episode Highlights What makes a great subject line: short, descriptive, and written with the reader in mind. The 7 main types of subject lines (with examples for each): Question-based – e.g. "Can I have $9?" Personalized – using a subscriber's name or segment tags. Numbered or bracketed – like [EMM] or [Passholder]. Funny – inside jokes or quotes your audience will get. Emoji-filled – eye-catching when used sparingly. Curiosity-based – "Don't open this," "We kept our promise." Urgent/time-based – "Are you free at 5 p.m. tonight?" How to vary your subject lines to keep readers engaged. Why you should write the subject line after writing your email. How experimenting with one-word subject lines helped Liz improve her open rate. Tools and resources to help you generate better subject lines. Key Takeaways Keep it short: Aim for 3–5 words that create curiosity or connection. Mix it up: Rotate between different styles so your emails always feel fresh. Write like a friend: Subject lines should sound natural, not corporate or SEO-heavy. Experiment: Test new ideas like emojis, questions, or even one-word lines. Use the tools: Try Liz's free Subject Line Generator or ChatGPT to brainstorm ideas. Links and Resources Link to get on the annual pass waitlist Check out Liz's Email Marketing Membership here Join the Email Sound Booth Facebook group here Check out Liz's free welcome sequence here Liz's Kit [Convertkit] affiliate link Rather watch the Podcast? Check out WATCHLIZ.COM