Most email newsletters average just 15–25% open rates. But top thought leaders often reach 40% or more.
This isn’t luck—it’s strategy.
If you want to increase email open rates, skip the gimmicks. Focus on trust, consistency, and value. Here’s how.
Here’s how to do it.
Pro Tips to Increase Email Open Rates
Craft Subject Lines That Spark Curiosity
This is your gatekeeper. Even the best content fails if no one opens the email.
Strong subject lines:
- Tease curiosity
- Stay brief and on-brand
- Avoid clickbait
Examples:
- “This almost broke my business last week”
- “A 5-minute mindset shift that changed my day”
- “You’re probably underpricing this without knowing it”
Test weekly. Track results. Build a swipe file.
Send at the Same Day and Time
Train readers to expect you. Sending on a consistent schedule builds anticipation and improves deliverability.
That familiarity leads to more opens over time.
Use a Real Name in the “From” Field
People trust people. Even if you have a brand, set your sender name as a person.
Example: “Jennifer at Bold Voice” > “Bold Voice”
Make the First Line Count
The preview text in most email clients shows your first line. That means your opening line is part of your subject line in a way.
Use it to tease the value inside. Don’t waste it with filler.
Focus on One Strong Idea
Trying to cram too much into one newsletter dilutes your message. Focus on a single topic, takeaway, or insight.
Less is more. Clear is better than clever.
Write Like You Talk
Drop the formal tone. People connect with humans, not marketers.
Use short sentences. Avoid jargon. Tell stories. Inject some personality.
Invite Engagement
Ask readers to reply.
Boost your open rates by encouraging replies. Ask a real question. Share a thought that invites feedback.
When people reply, email platforms see that as engagement. That helps your deliverability.
Trim Your List Regularly
Remove cold subscribers every 90 days. A smaller, more engaged list is better than a big one full of ghosts.
This also improves your sender reputation, which leads to higher open rates.
You Don’t Need a Huge List, You Need a Hot One
When your emails feel useful and personal, they get opened—consistently.
Want to increase email open rates without the extra work? Try Daily.ai.
Over 80% of Daily.ai customers hit 40%+ open rates. We support leaders like Chris Voss, Tony Robbins, and Peter Diamandis.
It takes less than 5 minutes a week. Our AI curates, writes, and delivers content your audience actually wants.
Want to Hit 40%+ Open Rates?
Daily.ai personalizes newsletters, removes cold leads, and boosts inbox placement.
Most clients see open rates jump past 40%.
If you’re ready for better results with less effort, visit Daily.ai.
FAQs About Increasing Email Open Rates
What’s a good email open rate?
15–25% is average. Great content can push it to 40% or more. Source
How do I write better subject lines?
Use curiosity, emotion, or specificity. Avoid clickbait.
What’s the best time to send emails?
Mid-morning Tuesdays or Wednesdays often perform well—test what works for your audience.
Should I use emojis in subject lines?
Only if they fit your tone. Don’t overdo it.
How often should I email my list?
Once a week is ideal for consistency and engagement.
What hurts open rates most?
Inconsistency, boring subjects, irrelevant content.
Can AI improve my open rates?
Yes. AI helps write, test, and personalize faster.
Should I send from my name or brand?
Use your name. It feels more personal and trustworthy.
How do I re-engage cold subscribers?
Send a re-engagement series. Offer value and let them opt in again.
Does list size matter?
Engagement matters more. A small, warm list beats a big cold one.
