12 Tips for Winning Email

Learning to write more effective email is a valuable skill when you are trying to build an online business. Potential customers are on high alert for spam in their inboxes. Here are a few tips to help you get the email you send open and read.

SUBJECT LINE

1. Capitalize the first word, or first letter in each word, in your subject line - NOT EVERY LETTER. writing in all lower case should also be avoided. You may be trying to make sure your email gets read when using all capital letters. This will be construed as being rude, unprofessional, or spam; any of which will lead to your message being deleted.

2. Avoid making claims that are difficult, if not impossible, to prove. Try to avoid words like best, biggest, easiest, greatest, and so on. These words are subjective, and will often cause people to delete your message without opening it. If you feel you absolutely must use words like this in your subject line, then support them in the body of your email.

3. Keep subject lines short and compelling, but don't use deception to get people to read an email. "Message From Admin" or "Account Deleted" are two examples of deceitful subject lines. You may get someone to open the email, but if they find it is an ad they will delete it. And, more than likely, block future messages from you.

BODY

4. If you are sending email to someone you don't know personally, use a brief introduction to explain who you are and why you are sending the email. Example: "You are receiving this email because you recently joined my group", or "Thank you for purchasing my Special Report" a simple explanation is usually all that is needed.

5. Pay attention to how the body of your email looks. Remember to put a space between paragraphs, but avoid too much use of "white" space. Formatting is important because it makes your message easier to read, thereby holding your reader's interest longer.

6. Use proper spelling, punctuation, grammar and capitalization. Messages written in all lower case are acceptable for informal messages to family and friends, but have no place in a business email.

7. Sign your name to your email. It helps to build trust by reminding people they are dealing with a real person.

8. Use a p.s. in every message you send. It is one of the most read parts of an email. Ask for some action on the part of the reader in the p.s., but keep it relevant to the main text of the email.

9. A signature line is an accepted way to advertise at the very end of your message. You can add a few lines about yourself, a new product, or anything else you wish to promote. Most email providers offer this service.

OTHER

10. Don't spam. If you are not sure whether the email you are sending will be considered spam or not, then don't send it. Period.

11. Respond to emails you receive as fast as you can. Within 24 to 48 hours is ideal. Customers and potential clients appreciate responsiveness.

12. Finally, test the different parts of your email on a regular basis. Keep what works and get rid of what doesn't work. Even changing one word can make a big difference. Do this often and you will soon find your email response rates going up.

Marketing with email is still an important part of doing business online. Take some time to review these tips, and see where you can make improvements in your current email campaigns.