What is Alt Text?
Alt text, or alternative text, is a brief description added to the HTML code of an image. It serves as a fallback for when the image fails to load or for users who are visually impaired and rely on screen readers. In the context of
email marketing, alt text ensures your message is conveyed even if the image doesn't appear.
Why is Alt Text Important in Email Marketing?
Accessibility: Alt text makes your emails accessible to
visually impaired users, ensuring they understand the content.
User Experience: If images don't load due to connectivity issues or email client settings, alt text provides context, improving the overall experience.
Deliverability: Emails with alt text are less likely to be marked as spam, enhancing deliverability rates.
What Happens When Alt Text is Neglected?
Neglecting alt text can lead to several issues: Poor accessibility: Visually impaired users won't understand the content, alienating a portion of your audience.
Decreased engagement: Without alt text, broken images leave blank spaces, which can confuse and disengage readers.
SEO drawbacks: Alt text contributes to
SEO by providing context to search engines. Missing alt text means missing out on potential SEO benefits.
How to Write Effective Alt Text?
Be Descriptive: Use clear and concise language to describe the image. For example, "A smiling customer holding a product."
Keep it Short: Alt text should be brief yet informative. Aim for 125 characters or less.