Email marketing is still one of the most effective ways to engage your audience. In fact, around 45% of B2B marketers in the U.S. named email as the most effective channel for driving revenues in 2023, up from 41% in 2021 (source: wpshout). Getting recipients to open your emails is often the hardest part, however. So, whether you’re a professional services business such as a law firm marketing its various practice areas or a real estate developer needing to get the word out about your latest project, give these three unconventional open rate boosting strategies a try.

1. Use the “From Name” as Part of the Subject Line

Your email begins when someone starts reading who it’s from. Using a familiar “from name” instead of only the company name can help build trust with your audience. Doing so reinforces who you are and increases the likelihood of your email being opened. For example, instead of a “from name” that is only the company name, example: “BoardroomPR,” try something that incorporates a real person and the company name, like, “Mara at BoardroomPR.” This approach doesn’t hurt deliverability and often boosts open rates because it makes the email feel more personal and trustworthy.

2. Experiment with Slang in Your Subject Lines

While many marketers stick to polished, professional language, adding a bit of slang or a playful phrase to your subject line can be surprisingly effective. Using casual language makes your emails feel more conversational and relatable, even for B2B audiences. Think of subject lines like, “Wanna hear something cool?” or “This offer is a total game-changer” or using specific slang words like, “TL:DR.” This strategy injects personality into your emails and can help them stand out in a crowded inbox. Just be sure to align the tone with your brand and audience to keep it authentic.

[READ MORE: 5 BENEFITS OF EMAIL MARKETING]

3. Use Customer Quotes as Subject Lines

Social proof is a powerful motivator, and you can harness it to improve your open rates by featuring a customer quote or testimonial in your subject line. For example, use something like, “‘They are the best marketing agency to work with’ – Alex, CEO.” This tactic not only piques curiosity, it builds credibility, as people are more likely to engage with content that comes recommended by their peers. Testimonials serve as a subtle – yet compelling – endorsement and make recipients more eager to learn what all the buzz is about.

Are you ready to boost your email open rates? These unconventional tips can help your emails cut through the clutter and engage your audience in new and effective ways.

But you don’t have to do it alone! Our team of seasoned B2B marketers and communications professionals can take care of your email marketing needs. And this coupled with social media management and media relations strategies provides a comprehensive approach to reaching your audience in meaningful ways. Contact us today to get started!

Mara Gordon

Digital Marketing Director