The inclusion of “ATTN” within an electronic mail’s subject line functions as a signal to the recipient, highlighting the message’s potential urgency or requiring immediate action. For example, a subject line reading “ATTN: Invoice Overdue – Account Suspension Notice” immediately alerts the reader to a critical financial matter.
Utilizing this convention can significantly improve email open rates, especially when conveying time-sensitive information or requests that necessitate a prompt response. Historically, this abbreviation has been employed in formal correspondence to draw attention to a specific recipient or detail. Its continued use in email communication leverages established expectations of urgency and importance, cutting through the noise of crowded inboxes.