INFO - Concise Subject Lines

Short, sweet, and to the point...

People are busy and their time is valuable, so ensure your email subject line is descriptive. Some common key words include:

• ACTION – Requires recipient(s) act.
• APPROVAL – Specific DECISION request often accompanied by prescribed options.
• ATTENTION – Shares information only, and there is no action or response required. Alternative forms include: FYSA (for your situational awareness) and INFO.
• DECISION – Requests a choice by recipient(s). May include alternative options for recipient(s) to concur/non-concur, for example.
• <PROJECT_NAME> – Call out the specific project or operation to make it easier on the recipient(s) to find email quicker and associated/group emails.
• REQUEST – Asks approval or permission by recipient(s).
• RESPONSE NEEDED – Seeks an answer or information from recipient(s).
• SIGN – Requires signature of recipient(s).

Be respective of protocol and ensure that only recipients on the “TO” line are those requested to take the above direction while those on the “CC” line are always in the “INFO” category.

Here are a few example Subject Lines:

• Subject: ACTION – File Tax Return by 15 April 2021


• Subject: REQUEST – Vacation Leave (29 March – 5 April)


• Subject: SIGN – Contract Modification (#2021_0027)