Losing sleep trying to work out how to craft the perfect newsletter subject line? Get ready for a night of peaceful slumber…
We get it. Convincing people that you’re not an AI bot or a prince from a distant country who needs their bank details for an unmissable investment opportunity is half the battle — the other half is getting them to actually open your email.
So, how do you write a subject line that
Stops people in their tracks
Gets clicks
& keeps your all-important brand voice intact?
Read on to discover some juicy tips & tricks for writing newsletter subject lines that boost open rates, PLUS a few examples for blank-page-killing content inspo.
Why Do Subject Lines Matter?
Your subject line is the digital equivalent of a shop window. If it’s boring, people walk past without a second glance. If it’s compelling, intriguing, or just plain funny, they’ll stop, look, and — most importantly — click.
With inboxes overflowing like a poorly poured IPA, your email needs to stand out in the froth of “Limited Time Offer!” and “Just Checking In…” snooze-fests. A great subject line will:
- Increase open rates (yes, we hear the collective “duh!” – but even the obvious ones are worth mentioning!)
- Set the tone for your brand
- Build anticipation and excitement
- Help you avoid the dreaded spam folder
Now, let’s get into the different styles of subject lines you can use to make your newsletters sizzle.
1. Silly Subject Lines
A little humour never hurt anyone — except if you heard the one about the guy who walked into a lamppost while laughing (athankyou 🥁). Light-hearted subject lines make your emails feel more personal and fun. They’re also great for breaking the monotony of serious, sales-y emails.
Try these:
- Our Intern Accidentally Sent This Too Early. Sorry.
- Your Daily Dose of Chaos, Straight to Your Inbox
- This Newsletter is 90% Fun, 10% Useful. Maybe.
- Oops, We Forgot a Catchy Subject Line
- Warning: Contains Hilarious Yet Questionable Advice
- This Email May Contain Too Much Fun
2. Lovable Subject Lines
Wanna make your audience smile before they even open your email? Lovable subject lines create an emotional connection with your readers and keep them coming back for more.
Try these:
- You Open, We Dance. Deal?
- A Hug in Email Form (Click to Feel It)
- Open This and Get an Instant Mood Boost!
- Made With Love: Your Favourite Newsletter
- You + This Email = A Perfect Match
- Read This & Feel Like a Superstar
If not even Cookie could resist clicking on your newsletter subject lines, you know you nailed it big time! Image by Cookie the Pom on Unsplash
3. Dynamic Subject Lines
These subject lines create a sense of urgency, exclusivity, or curiosity — tapping into that insanely powerful FOMO feeling.
Try these (and tailor to your specific offer/topic):
- Something Awesome Inside (But Only for Today)
- Open Now or Regret Later. No Pressure.
- Psst. You’re Running Out of Time to See THIS
- This Won’t Stay Secret for Long. Check It Out Today.
- Exclusive Content Inside – Don’t Be The One Who Misses Out
- Blink & You’ll Miss THIS
4. Cheeky Subject Lines
A little sass goes a long way. These subject lines play with reverse psychology, irony & unexpected twists to make your readers do a double-take. Which means more time spent looking at your brand-focused title. Which means they’re more likely to click.
Try these:
- This Newsletter is Cooler Than Your Ex
- Your Inbox is Boring. Let’s Fix That.
- Um, Quick Q: Can You Keep THIS A Secret?
- Not Opening This? Bold Move. Hope You Don’t Regret It FOREVER
- We Bet You Won’t Read This. Please Prove Us Right.
- Open This or Live The Rest Of Your Life Wondering ‘What If?’
Tips for Writing Winning Subject Lines
Now that you’re brimming with inspiration like a perfectly poured amber ale (can you tell that I’m thirsty??), here are some general guidelines to make sure that your newsletter subject lines are more attractive than a Taylor Swift & MrBeast collab:
- Keep It Short & Sweet — 6-10 words is the sweet spot. Long subject lines get cut off.
- Use Emojis (But Sparingly) — A well-placed emoji can boost open rates. Just don’t overdo it.
- Personalise It — Use first names or reference past interactions when possible.
- Create Urgency — Phrases like “Don’t Miss Out” or “Limited Spots Left” work wonders — but try and amp them up with a creative brand voice polish.
- A/B Test Everything — Try different styles and see what resonates best with your audience.
- Avoid Spammy Words — “Free,” “Act Now,” and “You Won’t Believe” can trigger spam filters.
The Bottom Line
Your subject line is your first (and sometimes only) chance to capture your audience’s attention. Whether you go for silly, lovable, dynamic, or cheeky, make sure it reflects YOU and your brand’s personality.
Experiment, track results, and most importantly — have fun with it! Your readers will appreciate it, and your open rates will thank you.
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