Your subject line is your first impression. Here are formulas that consistently work.
The Question
Formula: [Question about their situation]? Example: "Quick question about {{company}}'s growth plans?" Why it works: Creates curiosity, invites response.
The Name Drop
Formula: [Mutual connection/similar company] suggested I reach out Example: "[Competitor] just switched - worth a look?" Why it works: Leverages social proof.
The Specific Result
Formula: [Specific metric] for {{company}} Example: "30% more demos for {{company}}?" Why it works: Concrete value proposition.
The Trigger
Formula: Re: [Their recent news/event] Example: "Re: {{company}}'s Series B" Why it works: Timely, relevant.
The Simple Intro
Formula: [Your company] <> {{company}} Example: "ColdFlow <> {{company}}" Why it works: Direct, professional.
The Curiosity Gap
Formula: [Intriguing incomplete thought] Example: "Noticed something about {{company}}'s outreach..." Why it works: Creates need to know more.
The Direct Ask
Formula: [Time] for [topic]? Example: "15 minutes on outbound?" Why it works: Clear, easy to answer.
Testing Subject Lines
Always A/B test. What works for others may not work for your audience. Track opens by subject line. Build your own winning formulas.
Avoid
Clickbait that doesn't deliver. ALL CAPS. Excessive punctuation!!! Spam trigger words. Misleading content.