Link building often begins with an email between two individuals who are usually unfamiliar with each other. While you might believe your content will captivate the recipient, the truth is, you are a stranger to them. Keep in mind, the person you’re reaching out to may have 30 or more unread emails in their inbox. How do you ensure your message stands out?
Even if your subject line is compelling enough for the recipient to open your email immediately, it doesn’t guarantee they’ll read through and provide a link. You’re a stranger to them and owe them nothing. Therefore, to capture their attention and secure a link, you need to effectively pitch your story.
The key is to grab their interest from the very first sentence and every sentence thereafter. Do you see the pattern here? Your goal is achieved only when the recipient has read the full email, explored your content, shared it, and linked to it. This is a substantial request, especially considering they may have received a dozen similar emails that day.
With approximately 269 billion emails sent and received each day in 2017, link builders face intense competition to have their emails read.
So, how can you ensure your email isn’t immediately discarded, archived, or labeled as spam upon landing in the recipient’s inbox?
Enter grease-slide copy
Grease-slide copy is a technique in copywriting designed to keep readers engaged with the text. Phrases like:
But wait – there’s more.
Yes, you read that right…
We’re not through yet.
These types of sentences entice you to continue reading the copy almost unconsciously. The purpose of grease-slide words and phrases is straightforward: once you start reading, you don’t want to stop. This makes it an excellent tool for outreach emails, quickly connecting you to someone who may not recognize you.
Outreach emails
Among the numerous grease-slide words and phrases, not every one will help you secure links. Through testing various expressions, four effective types of grease-slide copy have been identified.
- Setting the scene
Begin by sparking intrigue. Creating a vivid mental image for the recipient can be a powerful tool at the start of your pitch. Use phrases like:
- Picture this.
- It begins with a feeling of.
- Think about this for a moment.
- Just imagine.
- You know the score.
- Getting them on your side
Relating to the recipient on an emotional level can encourage them to continue reading. Transforming a simple pitch into an emotional experience can be achieved using phrases such as:
- We’ve all been there.
- OK, I know what you’re thinking.
- I know the feeling.
- We all do it.
- It’s not just you who …
- Making a point
Creating suspense and commanding attention prior to presenting significant points can have a lasting impact. Utilize phrases like:
- Here’s the deal:
- So what’s it all mean?
- But there’s one problem.
- Bottom line:
- Here’s another way to think about it.
- Sliding them into your content
This favorite tactic involves embedding a link to your content within the email, using grease-slide phrases to prompt the recipient to click:
- Until now:
- Not exactly:
- But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
- Here’s why:
- It’s (faster) (better) (longer) … than you think.
Every word matters
A lengthy introduction, excessive information, or sprawling paragraphs can mean the difference between securing a link and having your email discarded. While outreach styles can vary widely, incorporating proven copywriting techniques can be beneficial. When presenting your content to someone unfamiliar with you, every word is significant.
When crafting your next outreach email, try utilizing at least one of these grease-slide phrases. Now, go secure those links!
