How To Increase Your Email Open Rates

If you’re struggling to get your emails opened, this is for you. Learn how to increase your email open rates.

Did you know that the average email open rate is only 21.33%? That means almost 80% of emails never get read! If you’re struggling to get people to open your emails, you’re not alone.

Email marketing is a powerful tool, but it only works if people actually read your messages. Low open rates can hurt your business and waste your time.

But don’t worry! There are ways to increase your email open rates and get more people to engage with your content.

What Are Email Open Rates?

Email open rates show how many people open your emails. It’s usually shown as a percentage. For example, if you send 100 emails and 20 people open them, your open rate is 20%.

Open rates matter because they tell you if your emails are interesting to your readers. Low open rates might mean:

• Your subject lines aren’t catchy
• You’re sending too many emails
• Your content isn’t relevant to your readers

Improving your open rates can lead to better results from your email marketing efforts.

Why Email Open Rates Matter

High email open rates are crucial for several reasons:

1. They show that people care about your messages
2. They increase the chances of people clicking on links in your emails
3. They help build stronger relationships with your audience

When more people open your emails, you have more chances to share your message, sell your products, or build your brand.

Remember, sending emails that don’t get opened is like shouting into an empty room. It’s a waste of your time and energy.

20 Ways to Boost Your Email Open Rates

Let’s dive into some practical tips to increase your email open rates.

1. Write Compelling Subject Lines

Catchy subject lines are key to getting people to open your emails. They’re like the headline of a newspaper – they need to grab attention fast.

Good subject lines can make or break your email campaign. They’re the first thing people see in their inbox, so they need to stand out.

To write better subject lines, try using action words, asking questions, or creating a sense of urgency. For example, “Last Chance: 50% Off Sale Ends Tonight!” is more exciting than “Monthly Newsletter.”

Here are some examples of compelling subject lines:

• “Are you making these 5 email marketing mistakes?”
• “Open now for your free gift inside!”
• “John, here’s that info you requested”

Studies show that personalized subject lines can increase open rates by 26%.

2. Segment Your Email List

Segmenting means dividing your email list into smaller groups based on shared traits. This helps you send more relevant emails to each group.

When you send targeted emails, people are more likely to open them because the content is more interesting to them. It’s like getting a personalized gift instead of a generic one.

To segment your list, you can use factors like age, location, past purchases, or interests. For example, if you run a pet store, you might have separate lists for dog owners and cat owners.

Here’s an example: A clothing store could send different emails to men and women, or to people who buy mostly casual clothes versus those who buy formal wear.

Research shows that segmented email campaigns can lead to a 14.31% increase in open rates compared to non-segmented campaigns.

3. Optimize Your Sender Name

Your sender name is who the email is from. It’s one of the first things people see when they get your email.

A good sender name builds trust and recognition. If people know and like who the email is from, they’re more likely to open it.

Use a sender name that your audience will recognize and trust. This could be your company name, your own name, or a combination of both. For example, “John from ABC Company” or “Sarah – Marketing Tips.”

Some examples of effective sender names:

• “Netflix”
• “Tim Cook, Apple”
• “Airbnb Experiences”

Studies show that 68% of Americans decide whether to open an email based on the sender name.

4. Send at the Right Time

The timing of your emails can greatly affect open rates. Sending at the right time means your email is more likely to be seen and opened.

Different audiences have different ideal times for receiving emails. Finding the best time for your audience can significantly boost your open rates.

To find the best time, try sending emails at different times and days of the week. Keep track of which times get the best open rates. Many email marketing tools have features that can help with this.

For example, you might find that your business customers open emails more often on Tuesday mornings, while your consumer customers prefer Sunday evenings.

Research by Campaign Monitor found that the best time to send emails is at 10 AM on Thursdays.

5. Clean Your Email List Regularly

A clean email list means removing inactive subscribers and invalid email addresses. This helps improve your open rates and deliverability.

Keeping your list clean is important because it ensures you’re only sending emails to people who want to hear from you. It also helps you avoid spam traps and maintain a good sender reputation.

To clean your list, remove subscribers who haven’t opened your emails in a long time (like 6 months). Also, use an email verification service to remove invalid addresses.

Here’s an example: If you have 10,000 subscribers but only 2,000 regularly open your emails, you might consider removing the inactive 8,000 to improve your overall open rates.

Studies show that regular list cleaning can improve email deliverability by up to 25%.

6. Use Double Opt-In

Double opt-in means people have to confirm their email address before they’re added to your list. This extra step helps ensure you’re only emailing people who really want to hear from you.

Using double opt-in leads to a higher quality email list. While your list might grow more slowly, the people on it are more likely to open and engage with your emails.

To set up double opt-in, use an email marketing tool that offers this feature. After someone signs up, they’ll get an email asking them to confirm their subscription.

For example, after someone signs up on your website, they might get an email saying, “Click here to confirm your subscription to our newsletter.”

Research shows that double opt-in lists have 13% higher click-through rates than single opt-in lists.

7. Personalize Your Emails

Personalization means making your emails feel like they’re written just for the reader. This can include using their name or referencing their past actions.

When emails feel personal, people are more likely to open them. It’s like getting a letter from a friend instead of junk mail.

To personalize your emails, use the subscriber’s name in the subject line or greeting. You can also mention their recent purchases or browsing history if you have that data.

Here’s an example: “John, we picked these items just for you based on your last purchase” is more personal than “Check out our new products.”

Studies show that personalized email subject lines can increase open rates by 26%.

8. Provide Value in Every Email

Providing value means sending emails that are helpful, informative, or entertaining to your readers. When people know your emails are always useful, they’re more likely to open them.

Valuable emails keep subscribers engaged and looking forward to your messages. This leads to higher open rates over time.

To provide value, think about what your audience wants or needs. This could be tips, industry news, exclusive offers, or entertaining content related to your brand.

For example, a fitness brand might send weekly workout tips, while a tech company might share the latest industry news and how it affects their customers.

Research shows that 31% of consumers say they open all email newsletters they receive to get updates on products and services.

9. Use A/B Testing

A/B testing means creating two versions of your email with one small difference, then seeing which one performs better. This helps you learn what works best for your audience.

By constantly testing and improving your emails, you can gradually increase your open rates over time. It’s like fine-tuning a machine for better performance.

To do A/B testing, change one element at a time, like the subject line or sender name. Send each version to a small part of your list, then send the winning version to the rest.

For example, you might test two subject lines: A: “Last chance: Sale ends tonight!” B: “Don’t miss out on these deals”

Studies show that A/B testing your emails can increase open rates by up to 49%.

10. Keep Your Emails Short and Sweet

Short emails are easier to read and less overwhelming. When subscribers know your emails are quick to get through, they’re more likely to open them.

In today’s fast-paced world, people appreciate messages that get straight to the point. Short emails respect your readers’ time and attention.

To keep emails short, focus on one main message or call to action. Use bullet points and short paragraphs. Aim for emails that can be read in under a minute.

Here’s an example of a short email: “Hi [Name], Quick update: Our summer sale starts tomorrow. Get 30% off everything. Shop now: [link] Thanks, [Your Name]”

Research shows that emails between 50-125 words tend to get the best response rates.

11. Use Emojis in Subject Lines

Emojis in subject lines can make your emails stand out in a crowded inbox. They add color and personality to your messages.

When used well, emojis can boost open rates by catching the eye and conveying emotion quickly. They’re like little attention-grabbers for your emails.

To use emojis effectively, choose ones that are relevant to your message. Don’t overdo it – one or two is usually enough. Make sure they display correctly on different devices.

Some examples of effective emoji use in subject lines:

• “🎉 Your order has shipped!”
• “🔥 Hot deal alert: 50% off today only”
• “📚 New blog post: 10 tips for better sleep 😴”

Studies show that using emojis in subject lines can increase open rates by 56%.

12. Create a Sense of Urgency

Urgency encourages people to act quickly. When applied to emails, it can prompt subscribers to open your messages right away instead of saving them for later (and possibly forgetting).

Creating urgency can boost your open rates by making your emails feel important and time-sensitive. It’s like telling someone, “Open this now or you might miss out!”

To create urgency, use words and phrases that imply limited time or quantity. You can also use countdown timers in your emails if your email service provider allows it.

Examples of subject lines with urgency:

• “Only 2 hours left: Flash sale ends at midnight!”
• “Last chance to register – 5 spots remaining”
• “Your cart is about to expire”

Research shows that using urgency in email marketing can increase open rates by up to 22%.

13. Avoid Spam Trigger Words

Spam trigger words are terms that email filters often flag as spam. Using these words can send your emails straight to the junk folder, where they’ll never be opened.

Avoiding spam triggers helps ensure your emails actually reach your subscribers’ inboxes. If your emails don’t get delivered, your open rates will suffer.

To avoid spam triggers, steer clear of words like “free,” “guarantee,” “no obligation,” and excessive use of exclamation points or all caps. Instead, focus on clear, honest language.

Here are some examples of how to rephrase common spam trigger phrases: Instead of “FREE OFFER!!!”, try “Exclusive deal for subscribers” Instead of “Make money fast”, try “Boost your income” Instead of “This is not spam”, don’t say anything about spam at all

Studies show that avoiding spam trigger words can improve email deliverability by up to 69%.

14. Use Preview Text Effectively

Preview text is the short summary that appears after the subject line in most email clients. It gives readers a sneak peek of your email content.

Effective preview text can entice readers to open your email by providing more context or intrigue. It’s like a movie trailer for your email.

To use preview text well, make it complement your subject line rather than repeat it. Use it to add more information or create curiosity. Keep it under 100 characters for best results.

Examples of good preview text: Subject: “New product launch!” Preview: “Be the first to see our game-changing innovation”

Subject: “Your April newsletter” Preview: “Inside: Exclusive interview with [Celebrity Name]”

Research shows that optimizing preview text can increase open rates by up to 45%.

15. Maintain a Consistent Sending Schedule

A consistent sending schedule means sending emails at regular, predictable intervals. This could be daily, weekly, monthly, or whatever works for your audience.

When you send emails consistently, subscribers come to expect and look forward to your messages. This can lead to higher open rates over time.

To maintain a schedule, decide how often you want to send emails and stick to it. Use an email marketing tool to schedule your emails in advance if needed.

For example, you might decide to send a newsletter every Tuesday at 10 AM, and promotional emails no more than twice a month.

Studies show that maintaining a consistent email schedule can increase open rates by up to 39%.

16. Resend to Non-Openers

Resending to non-openers means sending the same email again to people who didn’t open it the first time, usually with a different subject line.

This strategy can boost your overall open rates by giving your email a second chance. Some people might have missed or overlooked your first email.

To resend effectively, wait a few days after the first send. Change the subject line and maybe tweak the content slightly. Most email marketing tools have features to automate this process.

Here’s an example: First send: “Our biggest sale of the year starts now!” Resend (3 days later): “Last chance: Sale ends tomorrow”

Research shows that resending emails to non-openers can increase open rates by up to 30%.

17. Use Power Words in Subject Lines

Power words are terms that trigger an emotional or psychological response. They can make your subject lines more compelling and increase open rates.

Using power words can make your emails feel more exciting or important. They grab attention and create curiosity.

To use power words, incorporate them naturally into your subject lines. Some examples of power words are “exclusive,” “secret,” “alert,” “breaking,” and “limited.”

Here are some subject line examples using power words:

• “Exclusive offer for our VIP customers”
• “Breaking news: Industry shakeup”
• “The secret to doubling your productivity”

Studies show that using power words in subject lines can increase open rates by up to 13.5%.

18. Optimize for Mobile

Optimizing for mobile means ensuring your emails look good and function well on smartphones and tablets. This is crucial because over half of all emails are opened on mobile devices.

When your emails are easy to read on mobile, more people will open and engage with them. Poor mobile formatting can lead to deleted emails and unsubscribes.

To optimize for mobile, use a responsive email template, keep subject lines short (under 41 characters), use larger fonts, and include plenty of white space. Test your emails on different devices before sending.

For example, instead of a wide, complex layout, use a single-column design that’s easy to scroll through on a phone screen.

Research shows that mobile-optimized emails can increase unique mobile clicks by 15%.

19. Use Social Proof

Social proof means showing that other people trust and value your emails. This can encourage more people to open and engage with your messages.

When people see that others find your emails valuable, they’re more likely to open them too. It’s like seeing a long line outside a restaurant – it makes you curious about what’s inside.

To use social proof in emails, you can mention your number of subscribers, share testimonials, or highlight social media engagement. You can also use phrases like “Join thousands of satisfied customers.”

Here’s an example subject line using social proof: “See why 10,000+ marketers read our newsletter every week”

Studies show that using social proof in marketing can increase conversions by up to 15%.

20. Make Unsubscribing Easy

Making it easy to unsubscribe might seem counterintuitive, but it can actually help your open rates in the long run.

When unsubscribing is easy, people who aren’t interested in your emails can remove themselves from your list. This leaves you with a more engaged audience, which leads to higher open rates overall.

To make unsubscribing easy, include a clear, one-click unsubscribe link in every email. Don’t hide it or make the process complicated. You can also offer the option to receive fewer emails instead of unsubscribing completely.

For example, at the bottom of your email, you might have: “Click here to unsubscribe or manage your email preferences”

Research shows that making unsubscribing easy can improve your overall email deliverability and sender reputation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions about increasing your email open rates.

What is a good email open rate?

A good email open rate varies by industry, but generally, anything above 20% is considered decent. Some industries see average open rates of 30% or higher.

How often should I send emails?

The best frequency depends on your audience and content. Some businesses send daily emails, while others send weekly or monthly. Test different frequencies to see what works best for your subscribers.

Can I buy email lists to increase my reach?

Buying email lists is not recommended. It often leads to low open rates, high spam complaints, and can damage your sender reputation. It’s better to grow your list organically.

How long should my subject lines be?

Aim for subject lines between 41-50 characters. This length typically performs well and displays fully on most devices.

How can I tell if my emails are going to spam?

You can use email deliverability tools to check your spam score. Also, monitor your open rates and ask subscribers to add your email address to their contact list.

Wrapping Up: Your Path to Better Email Open Rates

We’ve covered a lot of ground on how to increase your email open rates. From crafting compelling subject lines to segmenting your list, these strategies can help get more eyes on your emails.

Remember, improving open rates takes time and effort. Keep testing and refining your approach. What works for one audience might not work for another.

The key is to provide value to your subscribers. When people know your emails are worth opening, they’ll be more likely to click that subject line.

Need help boosting your email marketing game?

Our team of experts can help you craft emails that get opened, read, and clicked. Click here to contact us.

Or, if you prefer to DIY, check out our email marketing course. It’s packed with tips and tricks to take your email game to the next level.

Don’t let your valuable messages go unread – start improving your open rates today!