When Is the Best Time to Send a Marketing Email?

Published on May 25, 2023

If you’ve ever hesitated to hit the “send” button on your email, you’re not alone. I feel you.

In terms of marketing emails, timing can mean the difference between your carefully crafted message being read or being banished to the depths of the unread pile.

So when is the best time to send a marketing email? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on multiple factors like your audience’ schedule, industry, and email content, among others. You need a tailored strategy – one that ensures your marketing email lands at the right place, at the right time.

When Are the Best Times to Send a Marketing Email During the Week?

Best Days: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday

In the world of email marketing, not all days are created equal. 

Marketing emails sent on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays tend to have higher open and click-through rates compared to those sent on other days of the week. This could be attributed to various factors, including work routines, availability, and mindset during these specific weekdays.

Given that most people start their work week on Monday, they often find their inboxes flooded with a backlog of emails from the weekend. This makes it more likely for your marketing emails to be lost in the shuffle. As the week progresses, however, people settle into their work routines and are more inclined to engage with their inboxes.

Conversely, as the week winds down towards the weekend, people’s focus often shifts to personal errands and relaxation, making them less receptive to marketing emails. That’s why we suggest capitalising on the mid-week window (Tuesday to Thursday).

Pro tip: Test send your marketing emails on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Gain insights into your audience’ habits and preferences. See which day they’re most receptive to your emails. 

Best Time: Between 10 AM and 2 PM (Local Time)

The optimal time to send emails is between 10 AM and 2 PM local time. This window corresponds with typical break times during the workday when people are more likely to check their inboxes.

The logic behind this timing is relatively straightforward. Most professionals start their day by sorting through their emails, often clearing out any marketing-related messages that aren’t immediately relevant. By late morning or early afternoon, they’re more likely to take a break and read marketing emails.

Worst Times: Early Morning and Late Evenings

When you’re just starting out with your business newsletter, you don’t want to make a bad first impression. As much as possible, every move must be calculated and strategic – that includes your email messaging schedule.

In the early mornings, people are usually in a rush, getting ready for their day, commuting to work, or diving straight into their tasks. They’re less likely to have the time – or even the patience – to engage with marketing emails. This results in lower open and engagement rates.

Late evenings, on the other hand, are usually dedicated to personal time. People are winding down from their day, spending time with family, or preparing for bed. That being said, I’m sure you’d also want to have some “me time” after hours without getting email notifications.

Why Timing Matters for a Marketing Email

The timing of your marketing emails is more than just a logistical consideration; it’s a strategic decision. 

Sending your emails at the right time can increase your open rates, click-through rates, and overall engagement, leading to higher conversion rates and ultimately driving more revenue for your business.

Think of email timing as the alignment of your message with your audience’ schedule. If your emails land in your recipients’ inboxes at a time when they’re in the right frame of mind, you’ll have a better chance of getting your message across.

The flip side is also true. Sending emails at inopportune times can lead to lower engagement rates – with your emails being overlooked, ignored, or even deleted. They might even unsubscribe from you. When your email marketing provider notices that a lot of people are either blocking you or unsubscribing from you, they might penalise you in some way and tag you as spam (and not the yummy kind).

There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Solution for Email Marketing

Email marketing is not just about sending the right message, it’s also about sending it at the right time. Finding the right timing is an art that requires careful thought, thorough testing, and ongoing refinement. As with many aspects of digital marketing, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. You need to truly understand your audience, adapt to their schedules, and refine your approach for better engagement and conversion rates.

At Manifest Website Design, we understand the complexities of digital marketing, including the intricacies of email timing. Our comprehensive approach includes everything from website design to SEO, and yes, fine-tuning your email marketing strategy. Let’s take the guesswork out of your digital marketing initiatives today.