So you're about to launch your offer. However, you're concerned that your email list's open rates and engagement rates are subpar. With all the recent changes to email service providers, you're not even sure if your emails are landing inside people's inboxes.

What can you do?

You can follow a simple process called the “Hey” email.

The Hey Email Process

In the video below, you'll find a step-by-step guide to implementing the Hey Email strategy to bypass spam filters and land directly in subscribers' inboxes, especially those using Microsoft email services like Hotmail and Outlook.

If you're a course creator or coach who's looking for an immediate solution to poor email deliverability, this is it.

Without this process, it can directly impact your ability to sell and connect with your audience.

The best part? You can implement it in under 15 minutes. 🙌

Your Secret Weapon to Get Emails Read

You know what's frustrating? Pouring your heart into amazing email content only to have it land in spam folders or get completely lost in the digital void. 😩

Been there, done that!

Today, I'm sharing a super simple but incredibly effective strategy that's going to transform your email deliverability game. It's called the “Hey Email” and it's about to become your new best friend.

Why Email Deliverability Matters

Before we dive in, let's get real — if your emails aren't reaching your subscribers' inboxes, all your brilliant ideas and offerings are basically talking to an empty room.

This strategy helps ensure your messages land where they should, especially for those tricky Outlook and Hotmail users.

The Step-by-Step Breakdown

Step 1: Create Your “Hey Email” Template

  1. Subject line: Keep it simple – just write “hey” or “hey you”
  2. No emojis (I know, it hurts my soul too! 😉)
  3. Body: Super short message asking for a quick response
  4. NO links (this is crucial!) 🚨

Example Hey Email Template:

Ready to get emails read? Use this simple template to increase deliverability into email inboxes, especially Outlook and Hotmail users.

Subject: hey

Hey [Name],

Quick experiment – could you hit reply and let me know if you received this email?

Just a simple yes or no will do!

Thanks so much!

[Your name]

Step 2: Set Up Your Sending Schedule

There are three key times to send this email:

  1. Every 90 days to your existing subscribers
  2. Before any launch or major promotion
  3. To new subscribers (with a slight modification)

Step 3: Create Your New Subscriber Version

For fresh faces on your list:

  • Set up an automation trigger for new signups
  • Add a 2-hour delay (gives time for welcome emails to land)
  • Include a quick check: “Did you get your [freebie name]?”
  • Make sure to exclude existing subscribers

👩‍💻 Pro Tip: For new subscribers, modify the message slightly to check if they received their freebie or download. This helps catch any delivery issues right from the start!

Step 4: Monitor and Follow Up

  • Track your open rates (expect around 10-15% increase or higher)
  • Keep an eye on response rates
  • Follow up with anyone who didn't receive their materials
  • Use responses to troubleshoot delivery issues

Why This Works Like Magic 🪄

This strategy is effective because:

  1. It establishes you as a “known sender” with email providers
  2. Creates genuine engagement through responses
  3. Helps bypass those pesky spam filters
  4. Builds real connection with your subscribers

Implementation Tips for Success

  1. Stay Consistent – Mark your calendar for those 90-day check-ins. Consistency is key!
  2. Keep It Simple – Resist the urge to add extra fluff or promotional content. The power is in the simplicity.
  3. Be Patient – Not everyone will respond, and that's totally okay! The magic happens even with partial engagement.
  4. Track Results – Notice how your overall email deliverability improves over time.

Common Questions You Might Have

“Won't this annoy my subscribers?”

Surprisingly, no! Most people appreciate the personal touch and the chance to engage in a simple way.

“What if someone responds with more than yes/no?”

Bonus! This is a great opportunity for natural conversation and connection.

Ready to Give It a Try?

This strategy is one of those “small hinges that swing big doors.”

It takes minimal time to implement but can dramatically improve your email marketing results.

Your Action Steps Right Now:

  1. Draft your “hey email”
  2. Schedule your first send
  3. Set up your new subscriber automation
  4. Watch your deliverability soar!

Remember, successful email marketing isn't just about crafting engaging content — it's about making sure that content actually reaches your amazing audience! This simple strategy helps make that happen.

Want to dive deeper into email marketing strategies that actually work for creative entrepreneurs?

Drop a comment below or hit reply to any of my emails – I'd love to hear what you're struggling with!

Talk soon

Lise xoxo

P.S. Don't overthink this! The beauty of the “hey email” is its simplicity. Set it up today and watch the magic happen!


Lise Cartwright
Lise Cartwright

Founder of Hustle & Groove and your creative business strategist. If you want to get notified of new posts just like the ones you see here, then make sure you join the awesome H & G community — Join Now!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.