You’ve got mail… but is anyone reading it? 

If your email marketing feels like a guessing game of who will ghost you next, you’re not alone. With overflowing inboxes and ever-shortening attention spans, getting your emails opened—let alone read—can feel like an uphill battle. Don’t worry, we’ve got a few tips that will help! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of email marketing to craft emails that your customers and leads actually want to open.

1. Build a High-Quality Email List 

With email marketing, like many other aspects of lead generation and customer retention, quality beats quantity every time. Focus of growing a list of subscribers that actually want to hear from you and value your content. 

• Use lead magnets – Offer something valuable like an ebook, free consultation, discount, or free resource in exchange for an email signup. Chances are, if they are interested in your offer that interest will convey to your email content.
• Optimize your website – Add email signup forms to high-traffic pages like your homepage, blog posts, and checkout page. Let them know what to expect and when!
• Leverage social media – Promote exclusive email content or offers to social followers and encourage them to subscribe.

2. Hook ‘em with the Subject Line 

Your subject line is the first impression of your email. Your email is heading straight to the trash folder if it doesn’t grab attention. Some email platforms show readers a pre-header. Don’t forget this essential element– it’s a second chance to get your message opened. Here are some best practices:

• Keep it short and energetic – under 50 characters is ideal
• Create a sense of urgency – but be authentic and avoid clickbait
• Personalize when possible – “Hey [First Name], Here’s Your Exclusive Offer”
• Use emojis strategically – but don’t overdo it 😃🎉💛📩🚀🎉 (like this!)

3. Write Emails That Get Read 

Once someone opens your email, you’ve got their attention but you need to keep them engaged. Follow these key tips:

• Keep it concise – Nobody wants to read an English 101 essay
• Use short paragraphs and bullet points – Make your email easy to scan so readers can easily identify what matters to them
• Speak directly to the reader – Write like you’re having a conversation
• Include a clear Call to Action – Tell your audience exactly what you’d like them to do next. 

4. Make It Visually Appealing 

Avoid overwhelming your readers with a cluttered email. Keep your messages clear and engaging with:

• A mobile-friendly design (most people open emails on their phones)
• High-quality images and branded elements
• Clear, easy-to-read fonts

Don’t forget to test dark mode compatibility and email platforms so your email looks great for all users!

5. Avoid the Spam Folder 

Even the best email won’t work if it never reaches the inbox. To improve deliverability:

• Use a verified domain email (e.g., yourname@yourbusiness.com)
• Avoid spammy words like “free money,” “act now,” or “guaranteed”
• Make it easy for subscribers to opt-out 

Regularly cleaning your email list and removing inactive subscribers can also help maintain a strong sender reputation.

Ready to Elevate Your Email Marketing? 

Email marketing is one of the most powerful tools for nurturing leads, building customer relationships, and driving conversions—but only if its done correctly using best practices. By focusing on list quality, crafting engaging messages, and continuously optimizing, you can turn your email campaigns into a significant growth driver for your business.

Need help creating an email strategy that really works? Cloudbreak Creative has your back. Let’s chat about how we can make your emails impossible to ignore. Contact us here!