110 best email subject lines for sales success

Sales teams increasingly rely on email marketing for cold outreach, pipeline generation, and deal closure. With the average cold email response rate below one percent, it is harder than ever to stand out in crowded inboxes. A strong email subject line is one of the most important assets for sellers — it grabs attention, increases open rates, and moves conversations forward.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the critical importance of writing effective subject lines that not only increase email open rates but also drive meaningful conversions. To help you succeed, we are giving you 110 email subject lines for sales, which come with expert tips and examples to make your emails stand out from the competition.

Why email subject lines matter in sales

The subject line of your email is the gatekeeper to whether your message gets opened or sent to the trash. Research shows that 64% of recipients decide whether to open or delete an email based solely on the subject line.

What makes a good email subject line?

Crafting a good email subject line is an art that combines psychology, personalization, and a clear value proposition. A compelling subject line can be the difference between your email being opened or ignored, so let’s break down the essentials:

Keep it short and sweet

Brevity is the soul of wit, and it couldn't be more essential when writing effective subject lines. Keeping your subject line concise ensures it won’t get cut off on mobile devices, where the majority of emails are being opened these days.

Personalize the message

Research shows that personalized subject lines are 50% more likely to be opened. Adding the recipient’s name or referencing something relevant to them creates a sense of familiarity and connection. Personalization doesn’t just stop at names — it can include location, interests, or recent actions taken.

Evoke curiosity or interest

Piquing curiosity without being misleading encourages readers to open your email to find out more. Just make sure that what’s promised in the subject line is delivered in the body of the email to maintain trust.

Offer clear value

Your subject line should clearly communicate why opening the email is worth the reader’s time. Focus on the benefits or solutions your email provides, such as solving a problem or offering a valuable resource.

Avoid clickbait (it hurts credibility)

While it may be tempting to use dramatic subject lines to attract attention, clickbait ultimately damages credibility. Tactics like over-the-top urgency, unrealistic promises, or misleading statements lead to distrust, higher unsubscribe rates, and potential spam complaints.

Examples of clickbait subject lines to avoid:

• "You won't BELIEVE what happens next!"
• "This offer disappears in 5 minutes!"

Common mistakes to avoid in sales email subject lines

Crafting the perfect email subject line can be tricky, but avoiding common pitfalls can significantly improve your open rates. Here are five common mistakes salespeople make and solutions to help you write more effectively.

Being too vague

Mistake: "Check this out"

This subject line provides no context, leaving the recipient guessing about what’s inside. It could easily be overlooked or mistaken for spam due to its lack of specificity.

Solution: "New feature: schedule posts in advance"

This improved subject line clearly states what the recipient will learn about, focusing on a new feature that benefits them.

Using spammy language

Mistake: "Revolutionary solution: must-see demo!"

Overusing buzzwords like "revolutionary" and phrases like "must-see" create artificial urgency that feels forced. These terms can trigger spam filters and cause recipients to question the legitimacy of your email.

Solution: "Reduce data processing time by 50% - [company name] demo"

This subject line focuses on a concrete benefit, which feels more credible, while avoiding hyperbole.

Neglecting persuasion

Mistake: "Q4 network security update"

This subject line sounds generic and routine, failing to communicate any sense of value or urgency. It could be easily dismissed as an unimportant update.

Solution: "Prevent 95% of cyber attacks with our Q4 security solution"

This alternative highlights a key benefit and addresses a major pain point for many businesses — cybersecurity.

Making it too long

Mistake: "Introducing our new cloud-based enterprise resource planning solution with advanced AI capabilities and seamless integration features for improved operational efficiency"

A subject line this long will get cut off in most inboxes, especially on mobile devices. It also tries to pack in too much information, which can dilute the message and overwhelm the reader.

Solution: "Boost efficiency 30%: AI-powered ERP demo"

This subject line is concise, highlights a key benefit, and introduces relevant technologies without overloading the reader.

Failing to create urgency

Mistake: "New data analytics platform available"

While informative, this subject line lacks urgency or any clear benefit to the reader. It feels like a general announcement rather than a limited-time opportunity.

Solution: "48-hour trial: cut reporting time by 50% with our analytics platform"

This revised subject line introduces urgency with a 48-hour trial and provides a compelling, quantifiable benefit — encouraging immediate action.

The science behind high-converting subject lines

Crafting high-converting email subject lines involves more than just clever wording — it’s rooted in psychology and backed by data. Emotions, the fear of missing out (FOMO), and value propositions all play a crucial role in whether your email gets opened and drives conversions. Let’s break down how they work in subject lines.

Emotional triggers

The fear of missing out (FOMO)

Value propositions

Examples of winning sales email subject lines

20 general email subject lines

1. Unlock the power of [product] for [prospect's company]

This subject line gives the prospect a reason to open the email to discover the full potential of the solution offered.

2. Is [company] ready to scale?

This question challenges the prospect to think about their company’s growth.

3. Here’s how [company] can improve [metric]

By mentioning a specific metric relevant to the recipient's company, this subject line shows that the sender understands their business concerns.

4. Quick tip to boost your [metric]

The focus on a specific, measurable outcome makes it relevant and actionable.

5. Take [company] to the next level with [solution]

Combining action-oriented language with personalization, this subject line uses the phrase "next level" to signal growth.

6. Need help solving [problem]? We’ve got you covered!

By addressing a specific pain point, this subject line demonstrates an understanding of the recipient’s challenges.

7. New opportunities for [company] to grow

This subject line appeals to a company's ambitions for growth, while the word "new" implies fresh opportunities.

8. Ready to optimize your [process]?

This line signals to the prospect that the sender understands their business needs and offers a solution.

9. Exclusive offer: Elevate [prospect’s company] today

This subject line grabs attention while promising immediate benefits for the company.

10. How we helped [similar company] succeed

Leveraging social proof, this subject line builds credibility by referencing success with a similar company.

11. Achieve [benefit] in 30 days

This subject line uses a specific timeframe to appeal to recipients looking for quick wins and tangible outcomes.

12. Got 5 minutes? Here’s how you can improve [metric]

This subject line respects the prospect’s time while promising valuable information.

13. Don’t miss out on [value proposition]

This subject line taps into FOMO by creating a sense of urgency.

14. Top strategies for improving [metric] at [company]

Offering "top strategies" immediately signals value, making the email worth opening. Personalizing it with the recipient's company name adds relevance.

15. Make [prospect’s pain point] a thing of the past

This subject line directly addresses the recipient’s pain point and promises a solution.

16. What’s stopping [company] from [achieving goal]?

This question-based subject line challenges the prospect to reflect on what might be holding them back from achieving their goals.

17. The secret to [industry-specific benefit]

Tailoring the benefit to the recipient’s industry shows that you’ve done your research.

18. A simple solution to your [problem]

This simplicity is especially appealing to busy professionals who are looking for practical solutions.

19. Why [company] needs to consider [solution] today

Personalizing the subject line by mentioning the company name creates relevance, while the word "today" introduces urgency.

20. Let’s explore how [product] can transform [company]

The inclusive tone of “let’s explore” invites collaboration, which is more engaging than a direct sales pitch.

15 cold email subject lines

1. Have you considered this for [company]?

This subject line works by demonstrating that you’ve done your homework on the recipient’s company. 

2. Quick intro: [company]’s new solution for [pain point]

This line introduces your email with relevance by mentioning the recipient’s company and highlighting a pain point. 

3. How [company] can benefit from [product]

By focusing on how the recipient’s company can benefit, this subject line shifts the focus from your product’s features to the prospect’s needs.

4. Is [company] ready for a game-changer?

This subject line creates intrigue and excitement by suggesting that you have something innovative to offer.

5. Let’s talk about [company’s] goals

By focusing on the company’s goals, it shifts the conversation from a sales pitch to a collaborative discussion about their growth and success.

6. Curious to hear your thoughts on [problem]

This subject line creates an opportunity for open dialogue, making the conversation feel more engaging and less like a cold outreach.

7. Ideas for [company] to achieve [goal]

Offering ideas instead of asking for a sale right away positions you as a helpful resource.

8. How we helped [competitor] solve [problem]

This subject line leverages social proof by mentioning how you helped a competitor or similar company. 

9. Looking for a partner to improve [metric]?

By addressing a specific business metric, this subject line shows that you understand the recipient’s business priorities.

10. Struggling with [pain point]? We can help!

By addressing a specific pain point, you make it clear that you understand their needs and have a way to resolve their issues.

11. New ways to boost your [metric]

The use of "new" signals innovation, which can be attractive to businesses always on the lookout for fresh approaches. 

12. Achieve [goal] faster with [product]

By linking your product to their goals and emphasizing speed, you offer a clear and appealing value proposition.

13. How can we help [company] achieve [benefit]?

This subject line is open-ended and encourages collaboration, making it feel less like a hard sell and more like a genuine offer to help. 

14. What’s holding [company] back from [goal]?

This question-based subject line encourages the recipient to reflect on their current challenges. 

15. Transform your [process] with these tips

By offering actionable tips, this subject line immediately positions you as a helpful resource. 

15 follow-up sales email subject lines

1. Checking in: Any thoughts on our last discussion?

This subject line serves as a gentle reminder without applying too much pressure. 

2. Still interested in [benefit] for [company]?

Focusing on the benefit instead of the product puts the prospect’s needs front and center. 

3. Following up on our conversation about [topic]

Referencing a specific topic from a previous interaction is a natural way to continue the conversation, helping the prospect recall past discussions and re-engage. 

4. Ready to take the next step with [solution]?

This subject line encourages the prospect to take action by suggesting forward movement with a specific solution. 

5. How’s [company’s] progress toward [goal] going?

This subject line positions you as a partner interested in the prospect's success, rather than just a salesperson.

6. Here’s a quick recap of what we can offer [company]

Offering a recap is especially effective for busy decision-makers who may have forgotten key details from previous interactions.

7. Let’s revisit our strategy for [pain point]

The word "revisit" suggests a thoughtful approach and shows that you’re taking into account any changes or new information since your last conversation. 

8. Any questions about [product] and [company’s goals]?

This line opens the door for clarification and allows the prospect to steer the conversation towards their specific concerns.

9. Ready to continue our discussion on [benefit]?

The action-oriented language encourages the prospect to take the next step while keeping the focus on the value you provide.

10. Revisiting your options for solving [problem]

This subject line positions you as a consultant by framing the follow-up as a review of options.

11. Let’s wrap up our plan for [solution]

By using the phrase "let’s wrap up," you invite the prospect to finalize the conversation, encouraging them to take the final step.

12. Still time to make [benefit] a reality for [company]

Personalizing the subject line with the company name keeps it relevant, while the phrase "still time" creates a subtle sense of urgency — encouraging the recipient to act without feeling rushed.

13. Following up: Let’s reconnect on [goal]

The word "reconnect" is an invitation to continue a meaningful conversation, fostering a sense of partnership rather than pushing for a sale.

14. Here’s another way we can help [company] achieve [benefit]

This subject line offers additional value by presenting a new way to address the recipient’s needs. 

15. What’s next in your journey to [achieving goal]?

This question-based subject line prompts the prospect to reflect on their progress and next steps.

10 after no response email subject lines

1. Still interested in solving [problem]?

The question format lowers the barrier to engagement by inviting a simple yes or no answer.

2. Did you get a chance to look over my last email?

This line offers the prospect a polite reminder without feeling too intrusive. 

3. Let’s reconnect: Still time to improve [metric]

Combining a friendly invitation to reconnect with a reminder of a specific, measurable benefit, this subject line gently nudges the recipient. 

4. Closing the loop on [conversation topic]

The phrase "closing the loop" implies a natural conclusion to ongoing discussions, subtly suggesting that it's time for a decision. 

5. Is now a better time to discuss [solution]?

This subject line acknowledges that the prospect may have been too busy to respond earlier, giving them a second chance to engage. 

6. How can we help [company] overcome [pain point]?

Personalizing the subject line with the company’s name and focusing on a known pain point shows that you're invested in solving their problem. 

7. Is [company] ready to move forward with [solution]?

By asking about the company's readiness, this subject line adds a subtle sense of urgency.

8. Just checking in — still interested in [value proposition]?

Focusing on the value proposition instead of the product reminds the prospect of the potential benefits, making it easier for them to recall why they were interested in the first place.

9. Can we revisit [topic]? Your input matters

By asking to "revisit" a specific topic, you create a sense of continuity and provide context, making it easier for the recipient to pick up where the conversation left off.

10. Still looking for a solution to [problem]?

This direct subject line refocuses the conversation on the prospect’s original problem, reminding them why they were interested in the first place.

10 meeting request email subject lines

1. Can we schedule a time to discuss [benefit] for [company]?

This subject line shifts the focus from a hard sell to the specific benefits the prospect will gain. 

2. Let’s book a quick call to talk about [solution]

Acknowledging the prospect’s limited time by proposing a "quick call" makes the request feel less imposing.

3. Are you available for a 15-minute meeting next week?

Specifying a short, 15-minute meeting makes this request more appealing to busy professionals.

4. Let’s set up a time to explore [benefit] for [company]

The use of “explore” suggests a collaborative, discovery-driven approach rather than a sales-heavy pitch. 

5. Quick call to discuss how [solution] can help [company]

This subject line strikes the right balance between being brief and informative.

6. Can we meet to talk about improving [metric]?

This approach appeals to business goals, making the meeting more relevant to the prospect’s priorities.

7. How does [day] work for a quick chat about [solution]?

By proposing a specific day, this subject line makes it easier for the recipient to respond. 

8. I’d love to schedule a time to talk about [company’s goals]

Shifting the focus to the company’s goals demonstrates that the conversation will be about them, not just about selling your product.

9. Let’s book a time to review your [process]

This subject line shows that the meeting will be focused on the prospect’s specific processes, offering a more tailored conversation. 

10. Available for a quick meeting? Let’s discuss [benefit]

By promising a “quick” meeting and focusing on the benefit, you increase the likelihood of a positive response while demonstrating respect for the recipient’s time.

10 personalized sales email subject lines

1. [First name], here’s how we can help [company]

By using the recipient’s first name and company, this subject line immediately feels personal and relevant.

2. [First name], quick tip to improve [metric]

This subject line appeals to the recipient’s need for actionable insights, making it especially appealing to busy professionals.

3. How [company] can maximize [benefit] today

This subject line creates urgency by focusing on an immediate benefit. It’s personalized and results-oriented.

4. [First name], your competitors are using [solution] — are you?

Leveraging competitive pressure and FOMO, this subject line pushes the recipient to consider if they’re missing out on a solution their competitors are already using. 

5. [First name], ready to take [company] to the next level?

This aspirational subject line taps into the recipient’s ambition, which is an appealing offer for decision-makers.

6. [First name], what’s holding [company] back from [goal]?

This question-based subject line sparks curiosity and suggests that the sender has insights into potential obstacles the recipient's company may be facing. 

7. How [company] can improve [process] with [solution]

Offering a solution to a specific process improvement makes this subject line actionable and relevant. 

8. [First name], let’s explore new opportunities for [company]

This subject line creates a collaborative tone, inviting the recipient to work together on discovering growth opportunities. 

9. [Company name] could benefit from this quick solution

This subject line promises a "quick solution," making it attractive to companies looking for fast, actionable results. 

10. [First name], here’s how we’ve helped companies like [company]

This subject line builds credibility by leveraging social proof, suggesting that the recipient’s company could achieve similar results.

10 urgency-based sales email subject lines

1. Last chance: Exclusive offer for [company] ends soon

This subject line uses both scarcity and exclusivity to create urgency. 

2. Don’t miss out on [benefit] for [company]

FOMO is the driving force behind this subject line. 

3. Limited-time opportunity to improve [metric]

By focusing on a quantifiable improvement, this subject line appeals to goal-driven professionals. 

4. Final call: Boost [metric] with [solution] today

"Final call" implies that this is the last chance for the recipient to take advantage of the offer, while "boost [metric] with [solution]" provides a clear and valuable outcome. 

5. Urgent: [company] could be missing out on [benefit]

This combination of urgency and potential loss encourages the recipient to open the email to avoid missing out on a valuable opportunity.

6. Act fast: [solution] can help [company] right now

This subject line combines a sense of urgency with a clear, immediate benefit. 

7. Hurry! Limited availability for [solution]

Tapping into FOMO, this encourages the recipient to act quickly before the opportunity is gone.

8. Time-sensitive: Let’s discuss [benefit] for [company]

This line offers value while also creating a sense of urgency, prompting a faster response.

9. Only a few spots left—reserve yours for [benefit]

The competitive undertone of securing a spot encourages immediate engagement.

10. Don’t wait—[benefit] for [company] won’t last long

Combining a clear call to action with a time-sensitive benefit makes this line compelling for the recipient.

10 curiosity-driven sales email subject lines

1. You won’t believe how we solved [problem]

Using an element of surprise, you imply an impressive or unexpected solution to a common problem.

2. What’s missing from [company’s] current strategy?

The open-ended question implies that the email holds valuable insights, driving the recipient to open it to learn what they might be overlooking.

3. Want to know the secret to [achieving goal]?

By framing the information as a "secret," this subject line creates intrigue and a sense of exclusivity. 

4. Here’s what [company] could be overlooking

This subject line is effective because it plays on the fear of missing something important.

5. Did you know this about [industry]?

This subject line leverages the recipient's desire to stay informed about their industry.

6. A surprising solution to [company’s problem]

By promising an unexpected answer to a specific issue, this subject line piques curiosity and positions the sender as a potential problem-solver.

7. Have you considered this new approach for [company]?

This subject line suggests the sender has a fresh perspective or innovative strategy that could benefit the recipient’s company. 

8. The one thing [company] needs to know about [benefit]

The focus on a specific benefit makes it highly relevant to the recipient's business.

9. What could [company] achieve with [solution]?

By posing a question, this subject line invites the recipient to envision positive outcomes for their company. 

10. Here’s something you might not have thought about [topic]

This line suggests the email contains unique or unconventional information about a relevant topic.

10 industry-specific sales email subject lines

1. SaaS: Maximize your SaaS potential with [feature]

By highlighting a specific feature, it promises added value and helps the recipient see how they can get more out of their existing SaaS solution.

2. Real estate: Find your dream property faster with [solution]

In the real estate sector, time is often a critical factor, and this subject line appeals to that urgency.

3. Finance: Boost your financial strategy with this simple change

Finance professionals are constantly seeking ways to enhance their strategies. The phrase "simple change" implies that significant improvement can be achieved with minimal effort.

4. Retail: Increase your sales by [x%] with [solution]

Retailers are highly motivated by measurable outcomes, and this subject line grabs attention by offering a concrete percentage increase in sales.

5. Healthcare: Improve patient outcomes with [solution]

Focusing on patient outcomes speaks to the core mission of healthcare professionals. This subject line highlights the potential impact of the solution on real lives.

6. Manufacturing: Streamline production processes with [product]

By promising to streamline production, it appeals to the recipient’s desire to reduce costs and increase operational efficiency.

7. E-commerce: How [company] can increase online sales by [x%]

E-commerce companies are focused on driving sales, and this subject line offers a personalized and measurable benefit. 

8. Education: Enhance student engagement with [tool]

This subject line offers a tool that promises to improve learning outcomes. It appeals to educators who are looking for ways to make their classrooms more dynamic.

9. Legal: Boost your firm’s efficiency with [solution]

Law firms often face challenges related to time management and efficiency. 

10. Hospitality: Increase guest satisfaction with [product]

Guest satisfaction is a top priority in the hospitality industry, and this subject line promises a direct way to improve that key metric.

The best keywords to use in sales email subject lines

When crafting sales email subject lines, the right keywords can significantly boost open rates and drive engagement. Below are two example keyword categories proven to be effective in sales email subject lines:

Action-oriented keywords

Action-oriented keywords encourage recipients to take immediate action by using strong verbs. Words like "discover," "boost," or "learn" create a sense of momentum and encourage immediate engagement with your email.

Value-driven keywords

Value-driven keywords highlight the benefit the recipient will gain from opening the email. Words like "save," "grow," "maximize," or "improve" convey a clear advantage and reassures the recipient that the content inside is worth their time.

A/B testing your email subject lines

A/B testing is essential for optimizing email open rates and conversions. By testing variations in subject lines, you can identify which resonates best with your audience. For effective tests, focus on one variable at a time — such as personalization, length, or tone — so you can pinpoint what drives performance. Use a large enough sample size for reliable results, and define clear metrics like open rates or conversions to measure success. Consider timing as well. Running tests at similar times helps avoid skewed data. Once results are in, analyze the data and continuously refine your approach. A/B testing is an ongoing process that allows you to adapt to changing trends and preferences.

Subject line dos and don’ts

Do include a value proposition:

Clearly communicate the value the recipient will get from opening the email. Whether it’s solving a problem, offering exclusive information, or providing a special offer, your subject line should highlight what’s in it for them.

Don’t be too pushy:

Avoid subject lines that come across as overly aggressive or forceful, which can turn off recipients. Stay away from all caps, excessive punctuation, or language that sounds desperate, as it may trigger spam filters or annoy your audience.

Do test different lengths:

Experiment with various subject line lengths to see what works best for your audience. While shorter lines often perform well, especially on mobile, sometimes a longer, more detailed subject line can capture attention. Testing both will help identify what resonates most with your recipients.

The role of emojis in sales email subject lines

Emojis can be an effective tool in email subject lines, adding personality and visual appeal that helps your message stand out in crowded inboxes. When used correctly, emojis can convey tone and emotion quickly, and even boost open rates. However, it’s important to be strategic and ensure they align with your brand’s voice and audience.

Benefits of using emojis:

• Help subject lines stand out in a crowded inbox
• Quickly convey emotion and tone
• Can increase open rates by adding a visual element

Considerations:

• Ensure emojis render correctly across different email platforms
• Use sparingly to maintain a professional tone
• Only choose emojis relevant to your message or offer

Emoji use examples:

Craft email subject lines that get opened with Outreach

Crafting the right email subject lines is a blend of art and science. Don't hesitate to experiment, analyze your results, and refine your approach as you go. Each subject line is an opportunity to learn and improve, ultimately driving more meaningful connections.

If you’re ready to take your sales engagement to the next level, Outreach is here to help. Our platform empowers you to craft compelling subject lines, streamline your email prospecting, personalize at scale, and analyze performance metrics with ease. With Outreach, you’ll ensure that your sales emails deliver the right message at the right time, to the right audience.

Ready to see how Outreach can transform your email outreach? Request a demo today and unlock the full potential of your sales strategy. Start crafting subject lines that not only get opened but drive results. Your path to sales success begins with that first click — make it count!

Additional FAQs about sales email subject lines

How often should I test different subject lines for my sales emails?

Regular testing is key to optimizing your email performance. Aim to test new subject lines at least once a month, or as frequently as your email cadence allows. This helps you stay aligned with your audience’s evolving preferences, ensuring continuous improvement in open rates and overall engagement. 

What is the ideal length for an email subject line?

The ideal length for an email subject line is typically between 40-50 characters. This ensures visibility on most devices, including mobile, where a large portion of emails are read. Short and concise subject lines can capture attention without being cut off, but remember to test different lengths to see what works best for your specific audience.

What types of subject lines are most likely to be marked as spam?

Subject lines with excessive promotional language, multiple exclamation marks, or misleading content are more likely to be flagged as spam. Words like “free,” “guarantee,” or “buy now” often trigger spam filters, as do all-caps or over-the-top claims. 

What is an effective subject line for a professional email?

An effective subject line for a professional email is clear, concise, and relevant. Avoid jargon and be specific, ensuring that the recipient immediately understands the email’s importance. Personalization, such as including the recipient’s name or company, can also boost open rates.

How can I determine if a subject line is effective?

To gauge the effectiveness of a subject line, analyze key performance indicators such as open rates, click-through rates, and conversions. High open rates indicate that your subject line resonates with your audience. Additionally, monitor conversion rates to see if the subject line is driving the desired action. Metrics like unsubscribe rates or spam complaints can reveal if your subject lines are off-putting. A/B testing different subject lines will provide clear insights into what works best for your audience.