Seven Ideas for Writing Headlines

When we browse the internet, it is easy to get distracted by the barrage of information available to us. A lot of well-written articles will fall by the wayside. This is because there are just too many things fighting for people’s attention. So how do you make your content stand out from the crowd in that first glance? By creating a headline that narrows the focus of the reader and entices them to click on the link to read further.

It is not easy to consistently produce great content but it is necessary to keep audience interest strong. Consistency is the key to the success of online branding and marketing. The problem is that 8 out of 10 readers will not bother to read the content of the article if they are not hooked from reading the headline first. Here are some tips to help you create headlines that will lure in readers and keep them coming back for more.

1. Focused and specific

People search for specific topics in their quest for answers. To make your content a success, make sure that your headline clearly states what the article is about. Vague umbrella topics like “ten real estate facts” usually drive people away. Instead, phrasing the subject as “ten tips when signing up for freehold options” answer questions specific to a type of real estate query.

2. Follow through

If you are going to have a dynamic headline, make sure your content can keep up. When readers do choose an article to peruse, there is nothing more frustrating than finding the actual content lacking. No one wants their time wasted that way. Remember that a great headline will bring audiences in but great content will keep them there.

3. Action words

Making your article the one to click on is about what you can promise the reader. If the reader believes you are giving them something worth their time, they are more likely to check the content out. Motivate your audience with words like “win”, “earn” and “create”. These words hint that the reader will gain something that will add to their lives. Perhaps teaching them a new skill or a chance to improve an aspect of their lives.

4. Statistics

Statistics make people believe. Use them to your advantage in the headline to make your point clear. Topics like “70% of people believe in a higher power, here’s why” are snappy. They provide an enticing number that would feed curiosity.

5. Numbers

The human brain is also programmed to be attracted to order and an article in the form of a list is a great way to play on this. Lists are interesting because they provide proof in a way to back your topic by pointing out how many things fit the bill or corroborate the point.

6. Keywords and SEO

When people are looking for answers they don’t like to go too far. Using keywords in your headlines will ensure that your article pops up higher in the search results. This means you will receive more exposure. Very few people make it past page 3 of a google search. So along with being specific, use the right terms in your headlines too. Try not to overdo this though to avoid appearing forced. Headlines like “6 super-quick raw vegan breakfast recipes” work better than “6 healthy breakfast recipes”.

7. Give time frame

If you specify a time that your information is supposedly valid for, it is more likely to create a sense of urgency. The readers may think they might miss out on whatever wisdom your article promises. Make your headlines time sensitive and applicable to the near future. Make it seem like your targeted audiences need to read this content now. For instance, “10 best Asian island hotspots for summer 2016”. The reader, wanting instant help or knowledge, will be enticed to read further.