There are some best practices to keep in mind when using Email+, relating to both an email's content and design.
Aim for simplicity.
- Keep your email copy clear and concise.
- Use standard, cross-platform fonts like Arial, Verdana, and Georgia.
- Don't use too many different fonts and colors.
Mind the layout.
- Emails should be 600-800 pixels in width.
- Don't design an email that is a single, large image.
- Keep URLs short! Long URLs may not wrap properly in certain email clients and may break your layout. Therefore, do not include a URL that is longer than the content area in an email. Consider creating a short URL if appropriate.
- Do not include images that are larger than the content area in an email.
- Assume that images will be initially blocked by email clients, or that certain images may fail to load. Always include alternative text.
Don't overlook the details.
- When providing a URL in your email copy, don't include "http://" in the display text, even when the URL doesn't have "www."
(You still need the full URL when setting the hyperlink itself.)
- If you copy content from Microsoft Word, you may unintentionally paste in extra spaces and breaks. Remove these from your email message before sending. If you need to add a line break in your message, press Shift + Enter.
- If you copy content from another source and don't want the source formatting, paste as plain text with Ctrl + Shift + V.
- Use a "From" name and email address that recipients will recognize.
- Keep subject lines meaningful and relatively short (50 characters or less, ideally).
- Don't rush to send your email without checking for spelling errors and other mistakes. Confirm that your links work properly.
- If you have questions about style or tone, consult Urbana's Writing Style Guide, UIC's University Style Guide, or the UIS Writing Style Guide.
Include a preview text.
Preview text contains a summary or teaser text and displays immediately after the email subject when viewed from the inbox. Preview text is another way for you to persuade your recipients to open your email. Use a preview text to summarize or elaborate on your email content, or convince someone to read more.
Test, and test again.
- Test in as many browsers, operating systems, and devices as you can.
Need inspiration?
Check out these great email examples: