6 Tips to Boost Open Rates & Curiosity
Crafting a High-Converting Subject Line
You could write the most compelling, beautifully designed, emotionally charged email of your life—but if your subject line doesn’t spark curiosity?
It might never get opened.
Your subject line is the front door to your email. And in the crowded world of inboxes, you’ve got just a few seconds to earn that click.
Let’s talk about what makes a subject line irresistible—and how you can consistently write ones that boost open rates, drive curiosity, and ultimately lead to more bookings.
Why Subject Lines Matter (A Lot)
Before a guest sees your stunning property photos or your tempting 10% off offer, they have to make one tiny decision: “Do I open this?”
A good subject line:
Grabs attention
Creates intrigue
Promises value
Feels personal and relevant
In short, it answers the silent question every guest is asking:
“Why should I care?”
Let’s break down how to write subject lines that get opened—and how to avoid the ones that don’t.
1. Keep It Short, Sweet, and Scannable
Aim for 6–10 words max. Many people check emails on their phones, where long subject lines get cut off.
Good:
“🌊 Your favorite beach house just opened up ”
“Spring break dates are filling fast!”
“[First Name], ready for a mountain escape?”
Not-so-good:
“Don't miss this incredible opportunity to save 10% on your next vacation rental stay when you book with us directly”
Too long = too easy to skip.
2. Make It Personal
Using a guest’s name, past trip details, or preferences adds a layer of intimacy and relevance that increases open rates.
Examples:
“[First Name], your lakeside getaway is calling”
“We remember your stay at [Property Name]…”
Even if you’re not using names, try phrasing that speaks directly to them:
“You deserve a break. Let’s make it happen.”
3. Create Curiosity (Without Being Clickbait)
A little mystery goes a long way. Ask a question. Tease a deal. Hint at something exciting.
Examples:
“Guess what we just added to our guest perks…”
“A local secret we’re finally sharing”
“There’s a 🎁 surprise waiting for you inside ”
Make the reader curious enough to click—but be sure to deliver on what you promised.
4. Use Urgency & FOMO (But Sparingly)
Urgency and scarcity can drive action—but only when it feels real.
Try:
“Only 3 weekends left for ☀️ summer stays…”
“Last chance to claim your 10% loyalty discount”
Avoid sounding overly pushy or fake. If every subject line says “HURRY! Limited time!” guests will start tuning you out.
5. Highlight Benefits, Not Just Features
Don’t just say what the email includes—say why it matters.
Instead of:
“New property available”
Try:
“😍 New beachfront property with sunset views ”
Instead of:
“Monthly newsletter – March edition”
Try:
“March in the mountains: best things to do + deals”
Focus on outcomes and emotion—what will the guest feel or experience?
6. Test Different Styles and Track Results
No one gets it perfect every time. That’s why testing matters.
Try sending:
A straightforward subject line vs. a playful one
A question vs. a statement
Emoji vs. no emoji
Use your email platform to track open rates and see what resonates with your list. Let the data guide you.
>>>Bonus Tips:
Avoid spammy words like “free,” “act now,” or “urgent” unless they’re used authentically.
Use preview text (that little line after the subject) to expand your hook.
Always write like a human. If it sounds like a robot or a hard sell, your guests will ignore it.
Use a subject line grader like this one from Net Atlantic to ensure your subject lines match best practices for length and word choice.
The Bottom Line: If the Subject Line Fails, Nothing Else Matters
Your subject line is the handshake. The first impression. The hook.
If you want your email marketing to perform—and if you want to get more direct bookings from your list—you’ve got to master this small but mighty line of text.
The good news? With a few simple tweaks, a little testing, and a clear understanding of your audience, you’ll be writing irresistible subject lines in no time.
