<b>The subject line is half the pitch</b>

<b>The subject line is half the pitch</b>

Reporters open dozens of source replies. Many never get read because the subject line said nothing.

Your subject line's only job: prove in a glance that you answered the right question.

Think of it like a label on a moving box. "Stuff" makes someone open every box. "Kitchen plates" gets grabbed when needed.

Here's a simple formula:

— 1. Restate the topic in their words. "Re: email mistakes that lose customers."
— 2. Add your one-word credibility. "— from an email consultant."
— 3. Keep it under about ten words.

Avoid "Great expert source here!" — that tells the reporter nothing about whether you fit. Match their language and they'll know instantly you're on topic.

Try this today: write the subject line for your next pitch before you write the body. It forces you to know your angle.