Effective email communication begins with a strong opening line. Whether you’re reaching out to a potential client, a colleague, or a friend, how you start your email can impact how the recipient perceives your message. In this article, we’ll provide you with a collection of “how to start an email examples” that you can use and adapt for your own needs. These examples cover a range of situations and can be easily customized to suit your specific purpose.
Start Your Emails Strong: A Guide to Kick-Off Lines
Crafting a kick-ass email is like cooking a delicious dish: the first bite makes all the difference. Your opening sentence sets the tone for the entire message, so it’s crucial to nail it. Here’s a quick guide to help you start your emails with a bang:
1. Personalize it:
Start with a personalized greeting that acknowledges the recipient by name. This shows that you’ve taken the time to connect and that you’re not just blasting out a mass email. Example: “Hi Sarah,”
2. Reference a recent interaction:
If you’ve interacted with the person recently, mention it in your opener. This helps establish a connection and shows that you’re paying attention. Example: “I wanted to follow up on our chat last week about…”
3. Drop a fun fact:
Start with a surprising or intriguing fact related to the topic of your email. This can grab the reader’s attention and make them more likely to keep reading. Example: “Did you know that the average attention span for an email is just 8 seconds?”
4. Ask a thought-provoking question:
Pose a question that relates to the purpose of your email and encourages the reader to engage. This can stimulate their interest and prompt them to continue reading. Example: “Have you ever wondered what’s the best way to improve your email open rates?”
5. Tell a short story:
Start with a brief anecdote or story that illustrates a point you’re making. This can make your email more memorable and engaging. Example: “Once upon a time, there was an email that was so boring that the recipient fell asleep reading it…”
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Tips for Starting an Email
Crafting a compelling email starts with a strong opening line. Your first impression can make or break the rest of your message, so it’s worth taking the time to get it right.
Personalize it
- Start with the recipient’s name when possible. It shows you’re not just sending out mass emails and it helps build a connection.
- If you can’t find their name, try using a complimentary term like “Dear Customer” or “Hello Valued Subscriber.” Remember to avoid using generic greetings like “To whom it may concern.”
Keep it Brief
- Your opening sentence should be concise and to the point. Get your main message across quickly and clearly.
- Aim for around 5-10 words, which is about the length of an average subject line. This will help your email stand out in a crowded inbox.
Be Informative
- If your email is about a specific topic or event, mention it right away. This gives the recipient a clear idea of what to expect in the rest of the message.
- For example, you could start with something like “I’m writing to follow up on our recent meeting” or “I’m excited to announce our new product launch.”
Ask a Question
- If you want to get the recipient thinking or responding, try starting your email with a question.
- This could be a simple inquiry like “How are you doing?” or something more specific related to your message.
Use a Hook
- Start with a surprising or intriguing fact or statistic related to your topic.
- This will grab the recipient’s attention and make them want to continue reading.
Avoid Clichés
- Overused phrases like “I hope this email finds you well” or “Thank you for your time” are boring and forgettable.
- Try to come up with something more original and engaging.
FAQs on How to Start an Email
What is the best way to start a formal email?
Dear [Recipient name],
What is a good way to start an informal email to a friend or family member?
Hi [Recipient name],
How should I start an email to a colleague or professional contact if I don’t know their name?
To whom it may concern,
What is an appropriate subject line for an email?
Keep it concise and clear, summarizing the main topic of the email.
Is it okay to use an exclamation point in the subject line?
Generally, it is best to avoid using exclamation points in subject lines, as it can come across as unprofessional and urgent.
What is the best font and font size to use for an email?
Use a professional font such as Arial or Calibri, in a size between 11-12 points.
Is it appropriate to start an email with a joke or personal anecdote?
No, it is generally not appropriate to start an email with a joke or personal anecdote unless you have a very close relationship with the recipient.
So Long for Now
Thanks for stopping by to check out my examples of how to start an email! I hope you found them helpful. If you’re still struggling, feel free to drop me a line and I’ll be happy to help. In the meantime, be sure to check back later for more writing tips and advice.