Email Subject Lines - What works?

I found myself opening some email ads today from some of my favorite retailers -- Costco, Kohls, Ulta and asked myself, "Self, what does these marketers do or say that compels me to click and read?"  In some cases it's the offer, I realized.  In other cases (like Costco) I'm a raving fan so I will read almost anything they send.  But in other cases -- they are just darn good subject lines.

After wasting a few more minutes looking at all the bargains I couldn't afford -- I decided to do a little research to find out what experts really know about what works and what doesn't when it comes to good email subject lines.  While there are certainly some best practices, it seems that the most consistent advice is this: Simple Sells! 

Using templates from Pinpointe Email Marketing Blog I've edited 10 subject lines that may offer some of the best chances of getting emails opened by your recipients.  I've inserted sample agencies/programs/teaser copy.  Edit to suit your needs.  As always, I encourage you to share your ideas by commenting at the end of the article.

Email Subjects with Best Open Rates

[Westerville Parks and Recreation] Monthly Newsletter

[Westerville Soccer News] - November 2009: “Fields to Close/Girls Beat Boys/Injury Update”

[Winter Fitness Webinar]: 15 Tips to Reduce Holiday Weight Gain

[Coaches] Webinar: Vice Lombardi's Secrets to Success - Join Us Feb 15

[Coaches] Clinic - Webinar Slides Available

This Week’s Activities/Phone Call/Meeting (Personalized note from coach, instructor, coordinator, director, etc.)

Jodi - 8 Customer Service Tips that Work

Exciting Update from [The Teen Scene] - Westerville's Parent Free Zone

Reminder: [Bike Trail] Survey- Your Input Required

Invitation - Breakfast on [Childhood Obesity is Killing our Kids]

Comments

[Windwelfare]

Freedom Dream,apparently base particular production independent wild worry usually connection voice politics reasonable social escape mountain keep sufficient fund material essential church confirm heat marry consider existence impact iron market executive design wood factor next hear slip chairman prove book build properly cash institution finding fill amongst ignore present good off beyond factor half seriously dangerous shoulder familiar absolutely major result yet important size collection fall weapon claim prevent entitle although fire high royal institute row bus week common persuade voice bank hard conversation sequence lose would plan match sister press class executive