Always use a detailed and specific subject that expresses the main point(s) of the email—this means you often have to write it last. Try to craft subject lines that will prepare readers for messages and help them find messages and access key information later. Include key information, such as dates and locations, and key words to aid with searches.
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Situation
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Vague Examples |
Detailed, Useful Examples |
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Asking for something |
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Request for Fourth Quarter Sales Figures |
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Saying thank you |
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Thank You for Covering the Client Demo Last Week! |
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Scheduling a meeting |
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All Staff Meeting Friday, May 5— Blue Conference Room |
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Asking a question |
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Question about Planning the 2019 Convention: Vendor Details |
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Proposing a project |
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ABC Corp.’s 2020 Green Initiative Project Proposal |
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Saying No |
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Response to Catering Request for Saturday, June 10 |
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Message with two important topics |
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Denver Travel Itinerary & Update on Ashley Gaffney Design Meeting |
Subject Lines for Negative Messages: No one will be eager to open a message with the subject “Rejecting Your Proposal.” Be detailed and accurate about the subject of your message without delivering the negative news in the subject line.
Subject Lines for Replies: If you are replying to an email chain, but starting a new topic, change the subject line and delete irrelevant messages.
Content on this page was created by the Business Communication team at the Wisconsin School of Business.