Have you ever considered the last thing your reader sees in your email? It’s not the closing remarks, but the postscript, or PS line. Far from being an afterthought, the PS can be a potent tool for grabbing attention, reinforcing your message, and driving action. But how to write PS in an email that truly resonates? Let’s delve into this often-overlooked element of email communication and uncover its secrets.
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Why the PS Matters – Beyond a Simple Addendum
Why should you even bother with a PS? The answer lies in its unique placement. It’s psychologically proven that people tend to remember the beginning and the end of any message. Therefore, the PS enjoys a privileged position, often being the second thing readers notice after the subject line. Think of it as your final opportunity to make an impact, a last chance to leave a lasting impression. It’s a spotlight shining on a key element of your message.
The PS is more than just a place for forgotten details. It’s a strategic space that can –
- Highlight Key Information – Did you bury the lede? The PS can resurrect crucial points that might have been missed.
- Create Urgency – Need to spur action? A well-crafted PS can create a sense of immediacy and prompt readers to act.
- Personalize the Message – A PS allows you to add a personal touch, showing you’re not just sending a generic message.
- Reinforce Your Brand – Used consistently and thoughtfully, the PS can reinforce your brand identity.
But, how to write PS in an email that achieves these goals effectively? Let’s explore some tactics.
Crafting the Perfect PS – Tips and Tricks
So, you’re convinced the PS is valuable. Now, let’s get practical. Here are some tips for writing PS lines that will elevate your emails –
- Keep it Concise – Brevity is key. Aim for one or two sentences maximum. The PS shouldn’t be a mini-essay. Instead, it should be a quick, punchy statement.
- Make it Relevant – The PS should always relate to the main content of your email. Don’t introduce entirely new topics or unrelated information. Think of it as a supporting actor, not the star of the show.
- Use Strong Verbs – Action verbs are your friends. Instead of saying “We have a sale,” try “Don’t miss our sale!” Strong verbs create a sense of excitement and encourage action.
- Incorporate a Call to Action – The PS is a prime spot for a call to action. “Click here to learn more,” “Register now,” or “Contact us today” are all effective options.
- Add a Personal Touch – A touch of personality can go a long way. A simple thank you, a genuine compliment, or a relevant anecdote can make your email more memorable.
- Intrigue the Reader – Ask a question, pose a challenge, or tease upcoming content. This can pique curiosity and encourage further engagement.
- Highlight Benefits – Remind the reader of the benefits they’ll receive by taking the desired action. Focus on “what’s in it for them.”
- A/B Test Your PS – Like any other element of your email, test different PS lines to see what resonates best with your audience.
- Consider Your Audience – What will resonate with your readers? Tailor your PS to their specific interests and needs.
- Be Authentic – Don’t try to be someone you’re not. Authenticity builds trust and credibility.
Examples of Effective PS Lines
Still unsure how to write PS in an email? Let’s look at some examples –
- For Sales Emails – “PS – Our 20% off sale ends tonight! Don’t miss out.”
- For Newsletter Sign-Ups – “PS – Sign up today and receive a free ebook on [relevant topic]!”
- For Thank-You Emails – “PS – We truly appreciate your business and look forward to serving you again.”
- For Event Invitations – “PS – The first 50 attendees will receive a special gift at the door!”
- For Follow-Up Emails – “PS – I’m happy to answer any questions you may have. Just reply to this email.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While the PS can be a powerful tool, it’s easy to misuse it. Here are some common mistakes to avoid –
- Overusing the PS – Using a PS in every email can dilute its impact. Save it for when it truly matters.
- Making it Too Long – A lengthy PS defeats the purpose. Keep it concise and to the point.
- Introducing New Information – Avoid introducing entirely new topics in the PS. It should complement the main message, not compete with it.
- Being Generic – A generic PS is a wasted opportunity. Make it specific, relevant, and engaging.
- Ignoring the Tone – Maintain a consistent tone throughout your email, including the PS.
Mastering the Art of the PS
The PS is more than just an afterthought. It’s a strategic element that can significantly impact your email’s effectiveness. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can master the art of the PS and unlock its full potential. Remember, the key is to be concise, relevant, and engaging. So, next time you’re crafting an email, don’t neglect the PS. It might just be the most important part.
