Question.

Would you read a novel in an email?

When was the last time you read through a long, rambling email? Maybe never…

Most people don’t have the time or patience for lengthy messages.

Yet it’s important to get your message across. If you’re too brief, you risk leaving out important details and confusing your reader.

Short emails can be incredibly effective in reaching your audience if you focus on the essentials.

The famous Gettysburg Address, given by Abraham Lincoln contained only 271 words and George Washington’s second inaugural address remains the shortest ever delivered, at just 135 words.

Combine that with C S Lewis’s famous letter to Joan Lancaster – the five pieces of writing advice in it are must-follow.

So: focus on the essentials.

Super-Short Emails That Work

So, how long should your emails be?

A Boomerang study found that emails with 75-100 words have the highest response rate at 51% – going under 50 or above 125 words reduced response rates.

Now let’s look at some examples.

1. Focus on key elements: Here’s an Amazon email – only 40-50 words – but it does its job effectively by answering three main questions: who you are, what your offer is and the action you want the reader to take.

   

2. Direct language with clear CTA: If you’re emailing existing customers, remind them to buy again, showcase relevant products and provide a simple conversion process. Violet Grey shows us how to do it in under 30 words.

   

3. Clear and Impactful approach: Dan Muscatello recommends using just two sentences or less for maximum impact. Since most emails are now read on mobile devices, keeping your messaging concise will improve engagement.

   

4. Trimming the extras: Skip the unnecessary pleasantries in emails to save time. Avoid generic greetings like “I hope you’re doing well” and get straight to the point. Being polite is important, but don’t let your email get bogged down with irrelevant details.

   

5. Prominent CTAs: You’re writing less because you want to drive them to your CTAs. You can have two CTAs, but ensure focus on the primary call-to-action.

   

To summarize:

• Make it crisp and clear
• Use an attention-grabbing subject line
• Be specific about CTAs

Exciting giveaway 🎉…

Since we’re talking about email effectiveness we’re giving away Icegram Express Max licenses for a whole year to 5 people.

To enter, just click the link below and follow the instructions. But, hurry up! You only have until May 15th to enter.

Click here to enter the May draw! 🌸

An email is like a bullet, make sure it hits the target.

What other topic would you like to read about? Reply to this email and let me know.

Until then,