Email subject lines (with a generator)
The subject line decides whether your email gets opened now, later or never. The good news: for most work email, a clear subject beats a clever one every time.
Use the generator to build subject lines for your situation, or browse the examples below.
Subject line generator
Subject lines
- Meeting request: [topic] on [date]
- Agenda for [day]'s meeting
- Notes and next steps from [meeting]
- Action needed: [task] by [date]
- Approval needed: [item]
- FYI: [topic]
- Question about [topic]
- Quick question
- Update on [project]
- [Project] – weekly update
- Reminder: [event] on [date]
- Deadline moved to [date]
- Request for [document]
- Following up on [topic]
- Re: [original subject]
- Introduction: [Name] <> [Name]
- [Mutual connection] suggested I reach out
- Great meeting you at [event]
- Coffee next week?
- Can I ask your advice on [topic]?
- Thank you for your time today
- Thank you – [Job title] interview
- Application for [Job title] – [Your name]
- Resignation – [Your name]
- Out of office until [date]
- Idea for [Company]
- Quick question about [Company]
- [Result] for [Company]?
- Your quote from [Company]
- Invoice [number] – due [date]
- Payment received – thank you
- Your order has shipped
- Welcome to [Company]!
- Your account is ready
- Don't miss [event] on [date]
- Last chance: [offer] ends tonight
- New: [feature]
- [Number] tips for [goal]
- How to [result] in [timeframe]
- What we learned from [thing]
- You're invited: [event]
- Save the date: [event]
- Happy holidays from [Company]
- We miss you
- Your feedback, please
- Did we get it right?
- Changes to our [policy]
- Important: [topic]
- Office closed on [date]
- Welcome to the team, [Name]!
How to write a good email subject line
- Say what the email is about. "Budget question" beats "Hi".
- Add the action or deadline if there is one: "Approval needed by Friday".
- Keep it under about 50 characters so it isn't cut off on phones.
- Put the important words first.
- Skip ALL CAPS, multiple exclamation marks and spammy words.
More subject lines by topic
Frequently asked questions
What makes a good email subject line?
It's clear, specific and short, and it tells the reader what the email is about or what you need from them.
How long should an email subject line be?
Under 50 characters for most emails. Around 6 to 8 words.
Should I use emojis in subject lines?
For marketing emails to consumers, sometimes. For work and sales email, avoid them.