Maybe it's the "new normal" after 2016's presidential campaign.
The panelists at a marketing conference I just attended were unanimous: only "crazy" will capture customers' attention in 2017.
That goes for email Subject lines as well as all other content.
Sales trainer Ryan Dohrn recommends these 10 grabbers:
Subject: [Road Runner] recommended I get in touch
Insert a [peer's name] in your Subject line. Referrals are the best way to connect instantly.
Subject: I was just wondering…
This line can introduce an offer to meet.
Subject: May 29th?
Another way to introduce an offer to meet.
Another way to introduce an offer to meet.
Subject: 3 reasons…
This line precedes a list of reasons the customer should engage with you. It's effective after previous emails have bombed.
Subject: Did something happen?
Guilt works after you've had a meeting or sent a proposal and received no feedback.
Subject: New idea for you
Effective right out of the gate when you want to arrange a meeting. Offer an idea that gives the prospect a slight competitive advantage.
Subject: Acme Anvils
Ruffle the customer's feathers by naming her competitor. Let her know how her rival is a step ahead.
Subject: Wrong person?
Use in your last-ditch effort. Ask the customer to provide information that will eliminate her from your list. But be careful: this line only works when you are emailing aggressively, not occasionally.
Subject: 20 minutes?
This line must be followed by a promise to solve a problem or save time and money.
Subject: I will respect your answer
It's not nutty to ask for a "No." When a customer feels like she can say "No," she'll at least reply.
