Top 120 Most-effective Follow-Up Email Subject Lines to Increase Engagement

What is the subject line in a follow-up email?

A subject line in a follow-up email is the short text that appears at the top of the email, which gives the recipient an idea of what the message is about. The subject line is the first thing they see when the email lands in their inbox. 

The subject line is important while writing an email because it reminds the recipient of your previous interaction and encourages them to open the email. The follow-up email subject line acts as a headline, which grabs attention and makes the purpose of the email clear. A strong subject line increases the chances that the email will be opened, while a weak subject line causes it to be ignored.

What is the importance of a subject line in a follow-up email?

The subject line in a follow-up email is very important because it is the first thing the recipient sees. A good subject line grabs their attention and makes them want to open the email. It helps remind the recipient of your previous conversation and shows the purpose of your message. 

The email will get noticed in a busy inbox if the subject line is clear and interesting and encourages the recipient to engage with your email. A strong subject line also affects whether your email is opened. Emails with clear and specific subject lines have more chances of being read. 

On the other hand, those emails with weak subject lines might be ignored. You can improve the chances of your follow-up email being noticed and receiving a response by keeping your subject line simple, personal, and relevant.

What are some tips for writing a follow-up email subject line?

Some tips for writing a follow-up email subject line are given below. You can use lead generation tools such as BookYourData to write effective subject lines rather than writing subject lines manually.

• Use a natural and conversational tone. A natural tone in your subject line makes the email feel more personal and less generic. People are more likely to engage with emails that are genuine and easy to read. For example, “Hi [Name], just following up on our last chat” feels more welcoming than a formal tone. Avoid using overly formal language or heavy phrases that might push the recipient away. Make the subject line conversational, as if you were speaking directly to the person.
• Make the subject line short and concise. Subject lines that are short and to the point perform better because they are easy to read and quick to understand. Keep the subject lines under 50 characters so they are fully shown to the recipient, even on mobile devices. Long subject lines might get cut off, which loses their impact. For example, instead of “I’m writing to follow up regarding our recent discussion about the project,” try to write “Quick follow-up on the project.” A concise subject line saves time for the reader and gets straight to the point.
• Spark curiosity about your email. A subject line that sparks curiosity encourages the recipient to open the email to learn more about your services. Use phrases that hint at the content without giving away everything. For example, “A quick update you’ll find interesting” or “Here’s what we discussed last week” creates interest. Avoid being too boring because this could frustrate the reader.
• Customize your subject line. Personalizing your subject line shows you have put thought into the email and makes the recipient feel valued. Using their name or referring to something specific about your last interaction is a great way to increase the success rate of your email campaigns. For example, “Hi [Name], about your idea from last week” or “Following up on our meeting, [Name].” Customization builds trust and increases the chances of your email being opened and read. You can use free and accurate lead lists to compare your subject lines.
• Optimize the snippet. The preview text is a short snippet that appears next to the subject line in the inbox. The snippet gives the recipient extra context about your email. Make sure it matches the subject line and adds value to the reader. For example, if your subject line says, “Quick follow-up on the project,” the preview text could say, “I wanted to share an update and ask for your input.” A strong preview text works with the subject line to encourage the recipient to open the email.
• Ensure the subject line reflects the email’s content. It is important to ensure the subject line matches the content of the email. Misleading subject lines might grab attention initially but can harm your credibility if the email does not deliver on its promise. For example, if your email is about scheduling a follow-up meeting, your subject line could say, “Can we finalize a time to meet?” instead of saying something unrelated.

What are the best examples of subject lines for follow-up emails?

The best examples of subject lines for follow-up emails are given below. You can also buy email lists you want to follow up from tools such as BookYourData.

1. Goals-based subject lines

Goals-based subject lines focus on the recipient’s goals or plans, which get attention by collaborating with their interests or aspirations. Goal-based subject lines show you understand their needs, which makes the email relevant and valuable. You show that your email is here to help or offer a solution by addressing their goals directly, which increases engagement and response rates. You can directly schedule a meeting with them to show how your services can help them solve their problems. 

For example, you can use these phrases as goals-based subject lines: “How can we help you achieve [specific goal]?” “Ideas to help you meet your [goal].” “Need help with [goal]? Let’s schedule a meeting!”, “How’s your progress on [goal or project]?” “A quick tip to help you with [goal].” “Let’s finalize your plan for [goal or project].” 

“Your [specific goal] just got easier to reach.” “A solution to help you achieve [specific goal].” “Need help with [goal]? Let’s discuss.” “Your roadmap to success in [specific area].” “Let’s hit your [specific target] together.” “Reanalyzing your goals - next steps?” and “A faster way to reach your [goal].”

2. Question-based subject lines

Question-based subject lines use curiosity to engage the recipient by asking a direct or interesting question. The question-based subject line approach creates a conversational tone, which makes the email more personal and inviting. A well-placed question in the subject line also shows that the sender values the recipient’s input, which encourages them to open the email and respond.

For example, you can use these phrases as question-based subject lines: “What’s the next step for [project]?” “Can we help you solve [specific issue]?” “Are you still interested in [topic or offer]?” “How’s your progress on [specific goal]?” “Did you find what you needed from our last chat?” “Have you considered this for [problem]?” 

“Ready to explore your options for [specific goal]?” “What’s holding you back on [goal]?” “How can we improve [specific process] together?” “Would this solution work for you?” and “Have questions about [topic]? Let’s connect!”

3. Promise-based subject lines

Promise-based subject lines offer a clear benefit or advantage to the recipient, which creates a sense of urgency and excitement. The promise-based subject lines work because they show the value the email provides, which makes it hard to ignore. You can encourage recipients to open the email and take action quickly by promising something useful or impactful.

For example, you can use these phrases as promise-based subject lines: “Here’s how you can save time on [task].” “An opportunity you don’t want to miss!” “This could manage your [specific process].” “A quick solution to your [problem].” “Don’t miss out on [specific offer].” “We can cut your costs by [specific percentage].” 

“See results in [specific time frame] with [offer].” “This strategy guarantees [specific result].” “Let’s improve your [specific metric] today.” “Your faster path to [specific outcome].” “Here’s how to boost your [specific performance].” “Exclusive tools for your [specific need].” and “Get better results - guaranteed!”

4. FOMO-based subject lines

FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) subject lines create urgency by making the recipient feel they might miss an opportunity if they do not act fast. The FOMO-based subject lines are effective because they appeal to the natural fear of missing out on something valuable or special.

For example, you can use these phrases as promise-based subject lines: “Last chance to join us for [event].” “Don’t miss this opportunity!” “Only 2 spots left - act now!” “This offer ends tomorrow!” “Exclusive deal just for you - expires soon.” “Last chance to join [specific opportunity]!” “Hurry! This deal ends tomorrow.” 

“Final call: [specific offer] expires soon!” “Your exclusive access ends tonight.” “Limited time: [specific offer] just for you.” “Once it’s gone, it’s gone - act now!” “This opportunity won’t wait - secure your spot today!” and “Exclusive offer - don’t let it slip away!”

5. Interview follow-up email subject lines

Interview follow-up subject lines express gratitude, add interest, or request updates after a job interview. The interview follow-up email subject lines are important for showing professionalism and keeping your application fresh in the recruiter’s mind. They help maintain communication and show how you are the best fit for that job.

For example, you can use these phrases as follow-up interview subject lines: “Thank you for the opportunity to interview!” “Following up on our interview for [position].” “Appreciate your time and looking forward to the next steps.” “Checking in on the status of my application.” “Excited about the [position] - any updates?” 

“It was great to meet with you and follow up on the next steps.” “Just following up on the [position] interview.” and “Thank you for the interview - looking forward to hearing back.” “Checking in on the [position] interview.” “Hope all is well - any news on [role]?” “It was great meeting you - follow-up on the next steps.”

6. Follow-up meeting email subject lines

Follow-up meeting subject lines are used after a meeting to recap discussions, share updates, or schedule the next steps. Follow-up meeting email subject lines work by keeping the conversation going and showing an initiative to move forward.

For example, you can use these phrases as follow-up meeting subject lines: “Great meeting today - next steps!” “Following up on our discussion from [date].” “Quick follow-up from our recent meeting.” “Next steps after our meeting.” “Revisiting what we discussed - let’s connect!” “Following up to keep things moving forward.” and “Thanks for the meeting - what’s next?”

7. Conversational follow-up email subject lines

Conversational subject lines create a friendly and personal tone, which makes the email feel like a natural continuation of your last interaction. The conversational follow-up email approach helps you to build trust. You can make the recipient more likely to engage with your email by learning to introduce yourself through compelling subject lines. 

For example, you can use these phrases as conversational follow-up subject lines: “Hope you’re doing well - quick follow-up!” “Just checking in - how’s it going?” “Let’s touch base - quick follow-up!” “Had a quick thought after our chat.” “How’s everything going since our last meeting?” “Just wanted to follow up - how’s everything?” 

“How’s everything going since we last talked?” “Hope you’re having a great week - quick follow-up!” “Wanted to share this after our discussion.” “Circling back on our earlier conversation.” “Let’s reconnect - next steps on [project].” and, “Thought you might find this helpful!”

8. Funny subject lines

Funny subject lines use humor to make your email get noticed in a crowded inbox, which makes the email more memorable and engaging. Humor can create a positive impression and increase open rates. You can also use funny subject lines in sales email templates when sending cold emails using BookYourData.

For example, you can use these phrases as funny subject lines: “Are we playing email tag now?” “Me again! Just checking in.” “Guess who’s back in your inbox?” “Hope this email doesn’t get lost in space!” 

“Here’s your friendly follow-up reminder.” “I promise I’m not stalking you!” “Knock knock - it’s me again.” “Let’s not ghost each other!” “Here’s a follow-up you didn’t ask for (but need).” “I thought you might ghost me, but here I am!” and “A follow-up email you’ll actually want to read.”

9. Inspiring subject lines

Inspiring subject lines motivate the recipient, which leaves a positive impression and encourages them to take action. The inspiring subject lines connect emotionally with the recipient, which makes the emails more impactful. You can also get help from these cold email subject lines that will encourage the recipient to open your email.

For example, you can use these phrases as inspiring subject lines: “Here’s to reaching your goals - together!” “Making progress one step at a time.” “Let’s achieve great things together.” “Big goals start with small actions.” 

“Helping you move closer to your vision.” “Your success story starts here.” “Making big things happen together.” “Helping you move closer to your goals.” “Turning ideas into action - let’s connect!” “Your dreams are closer than you think.” and “Success starts here - let’s make it happen!”

10. Catchy subject lines 

Catchy subject lines grab attention quickly and make an email stand out in a crowded inbox. They use creative, interesting, or engaging language to spark curiosity and encourage the recipient to open the email. These catchy cold outreach email templates show your skills or interest in the role for job applications, which makes you memorable to recruiters.

For example, you can use these phrases as catchy subject lines: “Excited to Bring My Skills to [Company Name]!” “Your Next [Position] Candidate - Let’s Chat!” “Passionate About [Industry] - Here’s My Application.” 

“Helping [Company] Reach New Heights - [Your Name].” “Why I’m the Perfect Fit for [Position].” “Let’s Make [Company]’s Goals a Reality - [Your Name].” and “Application for [Position] - Ready to Contribute!”

11. Customer pain points subject lines

Customer pain points subject lines focus on addressing specific challenges or problems your audience is facing. Customer pain points and subject lines focus on capturing attention by showing you understand their struggles and offering solutions, which makes the email subject lines feel relevant and valuable.

For example, these email subject lines work best if you are targeting your clients through email: “Struggling with [Problem]? We Can Help.” “A Simple Fix for [Specific Challenge].” “End [Problem] Today with [Solution].” “Frustrated by [Issue]? Let’s Solve It Together.” “Here’s How to Overcome [Specific Hurdle].” 

“Stop Wasting Time on [Task] - Try This.” “Say Goodbye to [Problem] for Good!” “Solve [Pain Point] in Just a Few Steps.” “Say goodbye to [specific frustration] for good.” “Let’s tackle your [problem] together.” and “The easy way to solve [specific challenge].”

What are the common mistakes to avoid in follow-up email subject lines?

The 3 common mistakes to avoid in a follow-up email subject lines are given below.

1. Being too desperate

Being too desperate and using subject lines such as “Please reply ASAP!” or “I’m waiting for your response” can come across as unprofessional. These types of subject lines may make the recipient feel pressured or annoyed, which reduces the chances of them opening your email. 

Focus on writing polite and professional subject lines that encourage engagement. Sending too many follow-ups in a short period is not a good practice. Choose a reasonable interval, such as 2 to 3 days between follow-ups, to avoid annoying the recipient.

2. Not including enough information

Subject lines that are too generic or lack context can confuse the recipient or fail to grab their attention. For example, “Following up” does not tell the recipient why you are emailing or what the email is about. 

Include a specific reference, such as “Following up on our discussion about [topic],” which provides enough information in the subject line to help the recipient understand the purpose of your email and increases the chances of it being opened. You can also get help from B2B cold email templates available on BookYourData.

3. Using misleading subject lines

Misleading subject lines that promise something unrelated to the email content can damage your credibility. For example, writing “Urgent: Limited-time offer!” when your email is just a routine follow-up can frustrate recipients and make them less likely to trust your future emails. A misleading subject line might increase the open rate initially but risks a negative impression. Always make sure your subject line shows the content of the email accurately.

What email subject line gets the most opens?

The subject lines that get the most open are clear, concise, and relevant to the recipient. Phrases such as “Quick question about [specific topic],” “Don’t miss out on [specific benefit],” or “Follow-up on our conversation” get the most open because they are personalized, actionable, and engaging.

How do I express urgency in an email subject line?

To express urgency in an email subject line, use phrases such as “Last chance,” “Offer ends today,” or “Only a few spots left.” You can also highlight deadlines or limited availability, for example, “Register by midnight for early access” or “Hurry! This deal won’t last.” For example, “Sign up with BookYour Data for 10 free leads today” is a compelling call to action to add to a subject line because it creates urgency while clearly offering value to the reader 🔥

[CTA1]

[CTA2]