Top 10 Tips for Higher Email Open Rates

by | May 20, 2013 | Online Marketing

Are your email open rates a source of embarrassment? Acting to increase them is easier to accomplish than you might think. According to Epsilon.com, email open rates sport an industry average of around 27.4 percent, with wide variances for markets. Knowing your email open rates and how to improve them should be high on your to-do list!

So without any further fanfare, here’s our down and dirty 10 best tips for improving your email open rates.

  1. Create something worth reading – No doubt, the most effective way to have your email opened is to write something your email list can’t wait to get more of.
  2. Length & timing – We’re all very busy, and lengthy emails that wander and fail to get to the point are rarely looked forward to. Additionally, not using optimum sending times doesn’t help.
  3. Use your subject line wisely – This is actually the single biggest element that influences whether or not your email gets opened. Take the time to craft great, non-spammy subject lines.
  4. Use your first line effectively – Closely related is the first line, part of which is visible in their inbox. This as well is valuable real estate, and don’t permit yours to be occupied with stuff like “If you don’t see any images in this message…”
  5. Give them what they really want! – Make sure to attempt to provide solutions.
  6. Offer deals and savings – Everybody wants a great deal, and email is an excellent way to communicate any deals or specials your business is offering.
  7. Be the authority – We always have things to learn, and if you are able to position yourself as somebody who provides something worthwhile for your readers, your open rates will flourish.
  8. Try and be entertaining – Don’t be boring! Use humor, wit, and a bit of controversy now and then, but you should never offend as well.
  9. Is your “From” line recognizable? – Make certain this is actually the person or company you want to brand, as this builds trust over time.
  10. Resend your unopens – A very simple action to take, bothering to resend to your unopened email is an easy way to increase your open rates.