Mastering the Art of Plain Text Email: A Guide for Effective Communication

When it comes to sending emails through Act-On's Message Composer, it's essential to understand that there are two versions of your message being sent simultaneously - an HTML version and a plain text version. While most email clients and servers accept both formats, some may only support plain text content. In this article, we'll delve into the world of plain text email and provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to effectively communicate with your contacts.

Why is Plain Text Email Important?

Before we dive into the details, it's crucial to understand why plain text email is important. Many email clients and servers are configured to accept only plain text content, which means that if your message is not optimized for plain text, it may not be received or viewed by some recipients. This can lead to a significant loss of engagement and conversion rates.

How to Edit Plain Text Email in Act-On's Message Composer

To edit the plain text version of your email message in Act-On's Message Composer, follow these simple steps:

1. Save your Email Message: Before you start editing the plain text version of your message, ensure that you have saved it first.

2. Navigate to the Design Tab: In the Message Composer, navigate to the Design tab and click on the Edit Plain Text Version button.

3. Customize Your Content: Once you're in the plain text editor, you'll see the default generated plain text content. You can customize this content by adding or removing text, images, and formatting options.

Tips for Editing Plain Text Email

When editing your plain text email, keep the following tips in mind:

* Make sure to save your message and then click Generate from HTML again to reflect any changes you made to the HTML version.

* Only edit the written content of your HTML message before editing the plain text version.

* If using custom footers or headers, update the plain text version accordingly.

Best Practices for Plain Text Email

Here are some best practices to keep in mind when creating a plain text email:

* Keep it simple: Avoid using complex formatting and styling options, as they may not be supported by all email clients.

* Use clear headings: Use headings to break up large blocks of text and make your message easier to read.

* Keep it concise: Keep your message concise and to the point. Avoid lengthy paragraphs or unnecessary information.

In conclusion, plain text email is an essential aspect of effective communication in the digital age. By following the tips and best practices outlined in this article, you can ensure that your messages are optimized for both HTML and plain text formats, increasing engagement and conversion rates. Remember to save your message regularly, customize your content, and keep it simple to achieve optimal results. With Act-On's Message Composer, you have the power to create high-quality plain text emails that resonate with your audience.

Outlook plain text email