10 Email Preheader Examples That Give You More Clicks!

Did you know that 47% of email recipients decide to open an email based solely on the subject line and preheader text?

If you're not using preheaders strategically, you're missing out on a prime opportunity to boost engagement.

In this guide, you'll discover 10 proven email preheader examples designed to grab attention and drive clicks.

Whether you’re running an email marketing campaign or targeting mobile users on Apple Mail, these actionable examples and tips will help you craft preheaders that work.

What are Email Preheaders?

Email preheaders are short text snippets that follow the subject line in your email. Think of them as a preview of your message. The preheader text gives readers a glimpse of the actual email content, enticing them to open it.

Preheaders often show up in your recipient’s inbox next to same text in the subject line in the email preview. They are your chance to give a quick, enticing reason to open the email.

Add preview text to act as a bridge between your subject line and email content, increasing the likelihood of engagement.

Why Preheader Text Matters in Email Campaigns

1. It Acts as the Silent Persuader: The preheader text can influence whether your email gets opened or ignored. For example, a preheader that says, “Exclusive offer just for you!” can make readers curious.
2. Improves Mobile Open Rates: Mobile email clients, like Apple Mail, show more preheader text than desktop ones. This gives you extra space to add value, like a discount or a friendly reminder. Preheaders tailored to audience interests can significantly enhance email open rates.
3. Enhances Personalization Without Overloading the Subject Line: A subject line alone might not tell the full story. Adding preheader text lets you include details that make the message feel personal. For instance, “Hi Sarah, your free gift is waiting!” works well. It adds context and makes the email feel tailored for the reader.

Strategic preheaders are vital for email effectiveness, guiding readers to explore your content.

10 Email Preheader Examples

Effective preview text examples include snippets like 'Your exclusive deal awaits' or 'Save 20% today' to grab attention.

1. Examples with a Strong Call to Action

A strong call-to-action (CTA) in your preheader text encourages readers to act immediately. It’s like a gentle push saying, “Hey, this is worth your time!” Include words that motivate action, such as “Shop Now,” “Discover More,” or “Claim Your Gift.”

How to Write It:

Example 1: “Hurry! Sale ends tonight. Click to shop now.”
Why it works: It creates urgency and invites the reader to act.

Example 2: “Unlock your free guide: Start your journey today!”
Why it works: It offers something valuable, compelling users to click.

2. Humorous Preheader Text to Draw Attention

Humor can make your email stand out in a crowded inbox. It shows personality and builds a connection. Keep the humor light and relatable. Use playful language that matches your brand.

How to Write It:

Example 1: “We made this just for you (no pressure to open... okay, maybe a little).”
Why it works: It’s quirky and invites curiosity.

Example 2: “Your wallet called. It says you need this deal!”
Why it works: It’s funny and appeals to readers who enjoy savings.

Humorous preview text, like ‘Guess what we have for you,’ can make your emails stand out in crowded inboxes.

3. Preview Text for Different Target Audiences

Personalizing your email preheader text can make readers feel like the email was tailored just for them. Segment your target audience and write text that matches their interests or needs.

How to Write It:

Example 1 (For tech lovers): “Explore the latest gadgets. Special prices inside!”
Why it works: It’s targeted and speaks to a specific interest.

Example 2 (For new customers): “Welcome aboard! Here’s your 10% off gift.”
Why it works: It feels personal and builds trust with new subscribers.

4. Preheader Text That Complements Your Subject Line

Preheader text works best when it adds more context to the email preview text subject line. It helps explain the email's purpose without repeating the email's subject line.

Use the preheader to provide additional details that encourage readers to open your email. Avoid using the same words in both the subject line and the preheader.

Examples:

1. Subject line: “50% Off Ends Today!”

• Preheader: “Shop our clearance sale before midnight.”
  Why it works: The preheader gives extra urgency without repeating the subject line.

2. Subject line: “Your Free Gift Awaits!”

• Preheader: “Click to claim your free ebook now.”
  Why it works: It adds value and tells the reader what to expect.

"Automate and Personalize Your Campaigns with Alore Drip Campaigner—Start Today!"

5. Using First Lines Effectively as Preheaders

The first line of preview text length of your email can often double as preheader text. This happens automatically in most email clients if you don’t customize preview text for the preheader.

Write the first line in the email body a way that hooks the reader's interest. Ensure it flows naturally into the rest of the email.

How to Write It:

Example 1: First line: “Hi Sarah, here’s an email code for something special just for you.”
Why it works: It feels personal and invites curiosity.

Example 2: First subject line announces: “We’ve got exciting news you won’t want to miss!”
Why it works: It creates excitement and encourages the reader to open the email.

6. Well-Written Preheader for an Email Marketing Campaign

A well-written preheader can make your email marketing campaign more successful by increasing open rates. It should align with your email marketing campaigns and goals.

Use preheaders to highlight a benefit, offer, or emotional appeal. Keep it short and direct.

How to Write It:

Example 1: Preheader: “Save 20% on your next order. Ends soon!”
Why it works: It motivates readers with a clear benefit.

Example 2: Preheader: “Last chance to book your dream vacation!”
Why it works: It creates urgency and excitement.

7. Preheader Examples for E-Commerce Emails

E-commerce preheaders highlight deals, new arrivals, or exclusive discounts. They help draw attention to online shopping offers. Focus on urgency or exciting offers to encourage clicks. Keep it short and direct.

How to Write It:

Example 1: Preheader: “Exclusive! Save 30% on your first order.”
Why it works: It offers a clear benefit and creates excitement.

Example 2: Preheader: “Your cart is waiting! Checkout before it’s gone.”
Why it works: It reminds customers about their abandoned cart and nudges them to complete the purchase.

8. Creative Preheaders for Newsletter Campaigns

Newsletter preheaders give a sneak peek preview of the content inside. They set the tone and encourage the reader to explore more.

Use preheaders to highlight the most exciting part of your message preview or newsletter. Aim to spark curiosity.

How to Write It:

Example 1: Preheader: “5 tips to boost your productivity today.”
Why it works: It’s engaging and promises value.

Example 2: Preheader: “This month’s hottest trends are here!”
Why it works: It teases fresh content and builds anticipation.

9. Short and Snappy Preheaders for Apple Mail and Other Email Clients

Preheaders optimized for Apple Mail and other web email clients make the best use of limited space. They ensure key information isn’t cut off.

Focus on your message in the first few words, 40–50 characters. Make every word count.

How to Write It:

Example 1: Preheader: “Flash sale! Ends at midnight.”
Why it works: It grabs readers attention with a time-sensitive offer.

Example 2: Preheader: “Your exclusive invite is here.”
Why it works: It feels personal and creates curiosity.

10. Personalized Preheader Examples for Higher Engagement

Personalized preheaders are snippets of text that include unique details about your reader. These could be their name, location, or recent activity. Personalization makes emails feel tailored and increases engagement.

Include dynamic content, like a subscriber’s first name or a specific interest, to make the email stand out. Focus on making the reader feel special.

How to Write It:

Example 1: Preheader: “Hi Alex, your exclusive deal is waiting!”
Why it works: It uses the reader’s name, making the email feel personal and unique.

Example 2: Preheader: “Based on your last purchase, we think you’ll love this!”
Why it works: It directly connects with the reader’s past behavior, showing relevance and care.

"Personalized Campaigns Made Easy—Explore Alore’s Customizable Mail Sequences!"

Best Practices for Writing Effective Preheader Text

Following email preheader best practices, such as personalizing text and avoiding redundancy, can significantly boost open rates.

1. Start with a Clear Call-to-Action (CTA)

A call-to-action (CTA) tells readers what you want them to do. It guides them toward actions like shopping, signing up, or learning more.

Keep your CTA short and focused. Use action words that encourage readers to act quickly. Adding a sense of urgency can make it even more effective.

2. Avoid Repeating the Subject Line

Preheader text should add something new, not just copy the subject line. This makes second subject line of the email more engaging and gives readers extra reasons to open it.

Expand on the subject line by providing additional details or highlighting a benefit. Think of the subject lines in it as giving readers a sneak peek of the email’s content.

3. Tailor for Mobile Viewers

Many people check emails on their phones. If your email preheader text is too long, it might get cut off. Short, clear text works best for mobile users.

Use the first 40–50 characters to share the most important information. Keep your text simple and direct. Test how your well written email preheader looks on different devices to ensure your preheader is visible and engaging.

4. Incorporate Emotional or Time-Sensitive Language

Emotions and urgency grab attention. They make people feel like they need to act quickly or miss out.

Use words that create excitement, curiosity, or urgency in test email. For example, phrases like "Limited Time Offer" or "Don’t Miss Out" can make readers feel they need to open the email now.

Preheader Text Length for Various Email Client

Many desktop clients display limited preheader text, making concise and impactful writing essential.

1. Gmail: 90-120 Characters for Maximum Visibility

Gmail, one of the most popular email clients, displays around 90-120 characters of preheader text depending on the device and screen size.

However, focusing on the first 50-70 characters ensures that the most important part of your message is seen, even if it's truncated on smaller screens.

2. Outlook: Significantly Limited, Around 35-40 Characters

Outlook, especially on desktop, offers very little room for preheader text, often displaying only 35-40 characters before truncation.

To optimize for Outlook users, craft concise preheader text that gets straight to the point without depending on extra context.

3. Apple Mail: Leverages 140+ Characters on Mobile

Apple Mail provides one of the longest spaces for preheader text, especially on mobile devices, with 140+ characters visible.

This gives marketers an opportunity to include email service providers both a compelling hook and supplementary details in marketing email, ensuring the full message resonates with Apple Mail users.

"Simplify Your Email Marketing with Alore's User-Friendly Dashboard! Sign Up Now"

Preheader Text Optimization Tips

1. Align with the Subject Line, but Don’t Duplicate

Your preheader text should connect with the subject line but not repeat it. Think of the add preheader text as an extension that provides extra information or a hook.

Duplicating the email subject line only wastes valuable space. Preheader text is your chance to add more context or excitement, encouraging readers to open your email.

How to Implement It:

• Start by summarizing the email content in a way that supports the subject line.
• Highlight an additional benefit, detail, or call-to-action.
• Keep it concise and ensure it adds value to the subject line.

For example, if the subject line says, “Don’t Miss Our Sale,” your preheader text could say, “Up to 50% off on all items until midnight!”

2. Focus on Action-Oriented Language

Action-oriented language uses strong, direct words that inspire or convince readers to take the next step, like clicking, shopping, or signing up.

Clear, actionable text encourages engagement. Readers are more likely to act when the preheader gives them a clear reason and direction.

How to Implement It:

• Use verbs like “Shop,” “Discover,” or “Download” to guide readers.
• Add urgency or exclusivity with phrases like “limited time” or “only for today.”
• Tailor your language to match your audience and campaign goal.

For instance, instead of saying, “Check out our deals,” try, “Grab your exclusive discount now!”

3. A/B Test Preheaders for Different Audiences

A/B testing means trying two different preheader texts to see which one works better. Each version is sent to a different group of people.

Not all readers are the same way. What works for one group might not work for another. A/B testing helps you find the preheader text that gets the most clicks and opens.

How to Implement It:

• Create Two Versions: Write two preheaders that focus on different ideas. For example, one might use urgency, and the other might highlight a benefit.
• Send to Groups: Send one version to half of your audience and the other to the rest.
• Measure Results: Check which version had higher open rates or clicks. Use that style for future emails.

4. Incorporate Dynamic Content for Personalization

Dynamic content means using data to make the sender name of your email preheaders feel personal. This could include the recipient's name, location, or recent activity.

People are more likely to open emails that feel relevant to them. A personalized preheader catches their eye and builds a first impression of connection.

How to Implement It:

• Use Data: Add personalized details like the recipient’s name (“Hi John, your weekend deals are here”) or a recent purchase (“Thanks for ordering! Check out what’s next.”).
• Keep It Simple: Don’t overcomplicate the message. Focus on making the reader feel noticed without being overwhelming.
• Work with Your Email Service Provider: Many email tools let you add dynamic fields easily. Explore their personalization features.

Conclusion

Email preheaders are a small but powerful tool in your email marketing campaign. They help grab attention, improve open rates, and provide a sneak peek into your email’s content.

By using examples and tips shared here, you can craft preheader text that works for any audience. Test, personalize, and always keep your readers in mind to see the best results.

‍