Podcast Summary: Ep. 285 - 4️⃣ Subject Line Tests You Have NEVER TRIED!🥣 WORST Show on TV! + Octomom, Gypsy Rose | Jay’s SCOOP

Host: Jay Schwedelson
Podcast: Do This, NOT That: Marketing Tips with Jay Schwedelson
Presented By: Marigold
Release Date: March 7, 2025

Introduction to Subject Line Optimization

In Episode 285 of Do This, NOT That, hosted by Jay Schwedelson, the focus is on innovative and often overlooked strategies for crafting effective email subject lines. Jay emphasizes the critical role subject lines play in email marketing, stating, “If we don't get the email open, who actually cares what's in the email?” (00:00).

1. Using Hours vs. Days

Jay introduces the first unconventional test: substituting "hours" for "days" in subject lines. Research from SubjectLine.com indicates that this simple change can lead to a 24% increase in open rates. For instance, instead of “2 Days Left in Your Offer,” using “48 Hours Left” creates a sense of urgency, making the offer appear more immediate and compelling.

“Hours seem shorter and more urgent compared to days, even though the timeframe is the same.” – Jay Schwedelson (04:30)

2. Incorporating Future Dates

Future dates in subject lines have proven to boost open rates by over 15% compared to standard subject lines. Jay suggests leveraging upcoming events or launches to build anticipation.

“Future dates in your subject line can lift open rates by over 15% as compared to regular subject lines.” – Jay Schwedelson (07:15)

Examples include phrases like “April 8th, Something Big is Happening…” which entice recipients to open the email to learn more about the upcoming event or offer.

3. Starting with Numbers

Beginning a subject line with numbers can significantly enhance visibility and engagement. Jay explains that starting with a number makes the email stand out in a crowded inbox, creating a sense of authority and specificity.

“Starting your subject line with a number can lift the percentage of people opening your email.” – Jay Schwedelson (12:40)

a. Odd Numbers Over Even Numbers

Odd numbers tend to outperform even numbers in marketing contexts. Jay notes that odd numbers feel more genuine and less generic, which can resonate better with audiences.

“Odd numbers outperform even numbers because they feel more real and less generic.” – Jay Schwedelson (16:05)

b. Numbers with Decimals

Taking it a step further, incorporating a decimal with an odd number can pique curiosity even more. For example, “11.5 Growth Hacks That Work” adds an element of intrigue and uniqueness, further boosting open rates.

“An odd number plus a decimal in your subject line causes curiosity and lifts open rates.” – Jay Schwedelson (19:50)

4. Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Jay cautions against some outdated practices, such as including only today’s date in the subject line, which can appear irrelevant and outdated.

“Never just put today's date in your subject line. It feels legacy and old.” – Jay Schwedelson (10:20)

Practical Implementation Tips

• A/B Testing: Jay encourages marketers to implement A/B tests for these subject line variations to determine what resonates best with their specific audience.
• Consistency: Regularly experimenting with these strategies can lead to sustained improvements in email engagement metrics.
• Relevance: Ensure that the subject line accurately reflects the email content to maintain trust and reduce unsubscribe rates.

Conclusion

Jay Schwedelson wraps up the episode by reinforcing the importance of innovative subject line strategies in enhancing email marketing effectiveness. By adopting these unconventional tests—using hours instead of days, incorporating future dates, starting with odd numbers, and adding decimals—marketers can achieve significant improvements in open rates and overall campaign success.

“We got to stand out. We got to make our emails open and not everybody else's.” – Jay Schwedelson (25:00)

Notable Quotes

• On the Importance of Subject Lines:
  “If we don't get the email open, who actually cares what's in the email?” – Jay Schwedelson (00:00)

• On Future Dates:
  “Future dates in your subject line can lift open rates by over 15% as compared to regular subject lines.” – Jay Schwedelson (07:15)

• On Starting with Numbers:
  “Starting your subject line with a number can lift the percentage of people opening your email.” – Jay Schwedelson (12:40)

• On Odd Numbers:
  “Odd numbers outperform even numbers because they feel more real and less generic.” – Jay Schwedelson (16:05)

• On Numbers with Decimals:
  “An odd number plus a decimal in your subject line causes curiosity and lifts open rates.” – Jay Schwedelson (19:50)

Additional Insights

Beyond subject line strategies, Jay briefly touches upon current pop culture topics, including critiques of Meghan Markle's new show and updates on public figures like Octomom and Gypsy Rose. While these segments provide a personal touch to the podcast, the core value remains in the actionable marketing insights shared.

Takeaways

• Experiment with Language: Simple changes in phrasing, such as using "hours" instead of "days," can have a substantial impact on engagement.
• Leverage Timing: Future-oriented subject lines build anticipation and encourage opens.
• Utilize Numbers Effectively: Starting with odd numbers and incorporating decimals can make subject lines more compelling.
• Continuous Testing: Regularly test and refine subject line strategies to discover what best resonates with your audience.

By implementing these innovative subject line techniques, marketers can enhance their email campaigns, drive higher engagement rates, and ultimately achieve better marketing outcomes.

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