Tips Beyond Tech

Compelling Emails: Non-Technical Tips to Boost Engagement

Crafting emails that stand out in a crowded inbox is both an art and a science. But the good news is, you don’t need to be a tech whiz to create emails that people want to open, read, and engage with. Here are some non-technical tips that can help you make your emails more compelling, whether you’re communicating with clients, colleagues, or customers.

1. Craft an Irresistible Subject Line

Your subject line is the first thing recipients see, and it’s often the deciding factor in whether they open your email or not. Aim for subject lines that are clear, concise, and intriguing. Use action-oriented language to create a sense of urgency or curiosity. For example, instead of “Monthly Newsletter,” try something like “Top Tips You Can’t Miss This Month” Keep it under 50 characters to ensure it’s fully visible on mobile devices.

2. Personalise Your Message

Personalisation goes beyond just using someone’s first name. Reference recent interactions, purchases, or specific interests of your recipient. For instance, “Hi John, Here’s a Solution to Your Recent IT Issue” shows that you’ve taken the time to tailor the message, making the recipient feel valued and more likely to engage.

3. Write with Clarity and Brevity

People are busy, and most won’t read lengthy emails. Get straight to the point by making your emails clear and concise. Use short paragraphs, bullet points, and subheadings to break up the text. This makes your message easier to digest and more likely to be read in full.

4. Focus on Value

Always ask yourself, “What’s in it for the reader?” Your email should offer something valuable, whether it’s useful information, a special offer, or a solution to a problem. If your readers feel they’re gaining something by opening your emails, they’ll be more inclined to keep engaging with them.

5. Incorporate a Call to Action (CTA)

Every email should have a clear purpose and a call to action that guides the reader on what to do next. Whether it’s clicking a link, replying to the email, or downloading a resource, make sure your CTA is prominent and easy to follow. For example, “Click here to book your free consultation” is direct and tells the reader exactly what action to take.

6. Design for Readability

Even if you’re not a designer, you can still ensure your emails are easy to read. Use a clean, simple layout with plenty of white space. Choose a legible font and ensure there’s a good contrast between the text and background colours. Avoid overwhelming the reader with too many images or blocks of text; keep it visually appealing and straightforward.

7. Timing is Everything

Sending your emails at the right time can significantly impact their open rates. While the best time can vary depending on your audience, generally, mid-week mornings are a good bet. Test different times and monitor engagement to find out what works best for your audience.

8. Make It Mobile-Friendly

With more people checking their emails on their phones, it’s crucial to ensure your emails are mobile-friendly. This means using responsive design, keeping your subject lines short, and making sure your CTA buttons are large and easy to tap.

9. A/B Test for Continuous Improvement

Even without technical expertise, you can still conduct simple A/B tests to see what works best for your audience. Try sending two versions of your email with slight differences in subject lines, content, or CTA. Analyse the results to learn what resonates more with your readers and refine your approach over time.

10. Review and Edit Before Sending

Nothing can derail the effectiveness of your email more than a typo or poorly worded sentence. Always take the time to review and edit your emails before hitting send. Reading your email aloud can help you catch errors and ensure it sounds natural.

Creating compelling emails doesn’t require advanced technical skills; it’s about understanding your audience, being clear and concise, and continually refining your approach. By following these non-technical tips, you’ll be well on your way to crafting emails that not only get opened but also encourage engagement and action.

If you’re looking to enhance your communication strategies further or need expert advice on optimising your email campaigns, we’re here to help. Explore how our Professional Services can support you.