Whether you're targeting leads, existing customers, or clients, the right subject line can increase your open rates by nearly 50% and boost your chances of closing the deal.

So as a seasoned email sales guru, I'm here to share some of my favorite catchy email subject lines for sales that you can steal or use to get inspired.

You’ll get subject lines for all the key scenarios, including:

  • Cold emails
  • Warm leads
  • Follow-ups
  • Existing customers
  • Sales referrals
  • Funny subject lines

Let’s do this!

Subject Lines for Cold Emails

I've done a deep dive into the psychology and principles of cold email subject lines, so I’ll keep this section brief so you can get your feet wet.

When it comes to making the perfect subject line for a cold sales email, always keep in mind it needs to be both attention-grabbing and relevant. You want to pique their interest and make them feel like you're reaching out to them specifically, not just sending a generic blast to anyone and everyone.

Here are ten examples of awesome cold email subject lines:

  1. Can I help you with [specific goal], [first name]?
  2. Quick Request
  3. What if I told you [specific benefit] was just one click away?
  4. I think you'll love this idea, [first name]
  5. [First name], are you free to chat on [date] or soon?
  6. Do you have 30 seconds for a game-changing idea?

Just remember that personalization is a powerful tool. It can go a long way in showing that you've done your research and are reaching out to them because you value them and their time.

And don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different approaches until you find what works best for you and your audience. For example, you could try using emojis in your subject lines.

Subject Lines for Warm Leads

With a warm lead, the goal is to keep the momentum you’ve built going and cross the finish line– i.e., close the deal.

Remind your prospect of your value and why they were interested in the first place.

Here are some examples and templates I’ve come across in my research or used myself:

  1. Thank you, [First Name].
  2. Following up on our last conversation
  3. One more thing before we move forward
  4. You're one step closer to [specific benefit] with [company name]
  5. Don't miss out on this opportunity
  6. I think we can make this work, [first name]
  7. Ready to see [specific benefit] in action?
  8. Don't let [specific pain point] hold you back
Top 49 Catchy Email Subject Lines for Sales

The good thing about warm leads is that they’re already interested in what you have to offer– so don't be afraid to remind them of what you bring to the table.

Subject Lines for Follow-Ups

Now, it's time to talk about email and sales follow-ups.

You know, those emails that you send when they're dragging their feet, and you're trying to close the deal?

Fortunately, there are some catchy subject lines that will help you stay top-of-mind and get the response you've been waiting for.

Here are some of my favorites:

  • Just a friendly reminder that we're here to help
  • [Specific pain point] sucks, let’s solve it together
  • How [competitor] is crushing it with [solution]
  • Just a quick check-in to see how we can help
  • Quick Request
  • Is [pain point] still a problem?
  • Any updates on your end?
  • Hey, [first name], checking in again
  • Had a chance to review our proposal?
  • Following up on our conversation on [date]

Remember, follow-up emails are all about re-engaging your prospect and getting them down your sales pipeline. Don’t be too pushy (you can always send an extremely polite follow-up email), but also don’t give up.

Most people only send one or two emails and call it quits, but research has shown it can take five or more follow-up emails to seal the deal.

Subject Lines for Existing Customers

Alright, it's time to show some love to your existing customers! Just because they've already made a purchase doesn't mean the relationship is over - especially if you’re an Account Executive.

In fact, it's just beginning!

To keep the conversation going and encourage repeat business, you need subject lines that are engaging, informative, and maybe a little bit cheeky.

Let’s look at some examples:

  1. We miss you! Come back for more [product/service]
  2. We want to hear from you - share your [company name] story
  3. The ultimate [product/service] guide just for you
  4. Exclusive offer just for our most valued customers
  5. We're giving you first dibs on our limited edition [product]
  6. Discover hidden gems in [product/service name]
  7. Just a little something to say thank you for your business
  8. Let's celebrate your [specific milestone]!
  9. [First name], still happy with [product/service]?

Existing customers are the lifeblood of your business. Always remember to reach out and show them love for choosing you. It makes for a great icebreaker to start an up-sell or cross-sell conversation, too. 😉

Subject Lines for Referral Emails

Sales referrals are a great way to strengthen your prospecting, and a catchy subject line can help increase the chances of your email being opened and read.

What’s great about referrals is that you can use the existing customer or acquaintance’s name to add credibility to your subject line.

Here are a few examples of catchy email subject lines for sales referral emails in action:

  • [Referral name] recommended I reach out to you
  • [Referral name] said you might need this
  • [Referral name] trusts us - here’s why you should, too
  • Exclusive access for [referral name]’s connections
  • [Referral name] is on board, are you?
  • Thanks to [referral name], you’ve got an exclusive offer!
  • [Referral name] sent me
  • [Referral name] said you might have issues with [pain point/challenge]

Having the referral already gets your foot in the door– now you just need to kill it with the pitch, and it’s a done deal!

Funny Subject Lines for Cold Email

A touch of humor in your subject lines isn’t just for OOO messages. It can also help you break the ice and make your emails stand out from the crowd.

Although, don’t overdo it. Make sure your sense of humor will sit well with the person reading your email.

Here are some funny subject lines you can steal:

  • If this email was a dating app, you'd swipe right.
  • Let’s talk about [product/service], and our shared love for cat videos
  • A cold email that doesn’t suck
  • Your inbox just got a little more interesting
  • Let's cut to the chase: we need to work together
  • You + me: [achievement]
  • We can’t all hit the lottery, but you’re pretty lucky!
  • I’m not a genie, but I can make your [pain point] disappear
  • Is this the start of a beautiful business relationship?

There’s nothing wrong with having a little fun with your subject lines. Remember to check the temperature first and test how things work for your targets.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Writing Catchy Subject Lines

Here’s a quick and straightforward guide for coming up with catchy subject lines for sales emails.

Do's:

  • Keep it short and sweet: aim for no more than 50 characters.
  • Personalization is essential: use the recipient's name or company to grab their attention. With personalization, you can expect up to 50% higher email open rates.
  • Use action-oriented verbs: inspire action and encourage the recipient to open the email.
  • Create a sense of urgency or intrigue: use time-sensitive phrases, address pain points or show value potential.
  • Test different subject lines: A/B test different subject lines to see what resonates best with your audience.
  • Know the best time to send your email: for some prospects, it might be during the weekday. Others might prefer it on the weekends. Know your audience.

Don’ts:

  • Don't use all caps or excessive punctuation: your email may appear spammy and unprofessional.
  • Don't use vague or misleading subject lines: this could damage your credibility and lead to distrust.
  • Don't make false promises: avoid making promises in your subject line that you can't keep in the email content.
  • Don’t use spam-trigger words: you could land in the spam folder or - at best - in the Promotions tab.
  • Don't be too sales-y: instead of being pushy, focus on providing value and benefits to the recipient.
  • Don't forget to proofread: check for spelling and grammatical errors to ensure your email appears polished.

Final Thoughts

We've covered a lot of ground, from subject lines for cold emails to follow-up emails and everything in between. And let's not forget the funny ones– because, let's face it, a good laugh can go a long way.

Remember, the key to a great subject line is to grab your recipient's attention and pique their curiosity. Use humor, wit, a sprinkle of snark, and whatever else you have in your arsenal to make your email stand out in their crowded inbox.

And keep in mind that it’s OK to have fun with it.

Writing subject lines doesn't have to be a chore. It can be an opportunity to flex your creative muscles and take a dive into the psyche of consumers. And who knows? The right subject line might be just what the lead ordered!