Here are 9 ideas to customize preheader text that will invite readers to open up your email:
1. Tease the content of your email.
Some email subject lines are more enticing than others, duds do happen every so often. The nice thing about preheader text is that it gives you another chance to encourage readers to open your email. Use it to capture the main point of your email with some compelling, eye-catching copy.
2. Provide a strong call-to-action.
Your preheader text can be a great place to include your call-to-action and create a sense of urgency. It will encourage your subscribers to open right away before they get distracted by something else in the inbox.
3. Elaborate on the subject line.
In general, the shorter the subject line, the better it performs. Preheader text allows you to add some context while keeping your subject line length in that attention-grabbing sweet spot.
4. Write a personal message.
A personalized note in your preheader text mirrors what your readers see when they get emails from friends and family and is less likely to offend those folks who might be turned off by personalized subject lines.
5. Give an incentive to open.
It’s no secret that people sign up to email lists because they expect to get something valuable in return. Hit them with that deal or exclusive content right away and watch your open rates soar.
6. Repeating yourself is, well, repetitive.
Marketers sometimes make the mistake of using preheader text to repeat or restate the subject line. This doesn’t add value for readers, so use the preheader to give them something fresh that will catch their eye.
7. Keep it short.
Remember that you have limited space in the inbox for your preheader text, so like subject and roller coaster lines, the shorter the better. The length varies depending on the email client, so we recommend keeping it under 75 characters to be safe.
8. A/B test.
Every audience is different, so test variations of your preheader text to learn what resonates best with your subscribers.
9. Include an emoji.
Have a little fun with your preheader text by adding a symbol or emoji. It’s a lighthearted way to show your brand’s sense of humor and make your email stand out in a crowded inbox.