It’s one thing to write good content, but that’s not enough. You need to rank on search engines, which is where nailing the headline comes into place. It takes a ton of time to write high-quality articles, but sadly, many of these articles won’t get read. According to Copyblogger, only 2 out of 10 will click on and read an entire article. We collected nine tips for writing headlines people can’t help but click on.
1. Write Multiple Headlines for Every Article
Try to write at least five headlines for every article, then choose the best one. You can even use different headlines for different purposes. Since you’re promoting your article on multiple platforms, you can use different headlines for email, social media, and search engines.
2. Grab the Attention of the Reader with Vivid and Descriptive Language
You have between 6 – 8 seconds to capture your reader. No matter how brilliant your ideas are, you can’t expect them to read your article if they haven’t resonated with the headline first. Select words that paint a picture in the viewers’ minds. Headlines should convey powerful imagery with meaningful detail.
3. Ask a Question to Spark Curiosity
People like answers, especially if you are asking something they’re interested in. Consider your target audience and the issues they want to know more about, and then ask the question. A good headline tells readers that you have the information they want and will respond accordingly. Never underestimate the power of an intriguing question, one designed to stir the imagination and make them want to find out more.
4. Make a Promise and Keep it
Promise to solve a problem in your article headline. People are constantly looking things up on Google. Target your audience and create the perfect title to help them find useful answers. When you have captivating article titles, it tells your reader that the content will educate them. Consumers are busy and want clear and concise information that will help solve their problems.
5. Write Stimulating Headlines While Avoiding Clickbait Cliches
Sensationalized headlines that attract a lot of attention generally offer disappointing content. This will quickly give your website a bad reputation. It’s not only about attracting eyes to the headline; you must deliver the advertised information.
6. Use Numbers Wisely
A study by Conductor shows that numbers draw a reader’s attention. For example, if you’re writing a listicle, state how many points you will make in the headline. This blog is an example! Not only do numbers draw the reader’s attention, but they also promise the reader a structured and organized article that’s easily absorbed. The reader may not have the time to read a book on the topic, but can certainly process a few tips within a few minutes.
7. Incorporate SEO Keywords Naturally
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the process of improving the quality and quantity of traffic to a website or page. SEO targets unpaid traffic rather than direct or paid traffic. SEO keywords are a digital writer’s best tool and should never take a back seat when creating effective headlines. Keywords are important if you want long-term SEO traffic to your article.
8. Be Concise
Great article headlines tend to be short. In a study of CBC’s Top Stories, headlines rank best when they are no more than 5 words or 34 characters. Don’t feel restricted to keeping to those numbers when it comes to your headline. Opinions vary, but generally, many experts recommend headlines with no more than 6 – 10 words. If it takes more than ten words to explain the primary purpose of your article, chances are you will lose your readers in the first paragraph.
9. Connect With Your Target Audience
Different websites will give the same information as you do. You want readers to think of your site as a familiar resource and choose your article because they feel connected to you. When readers see your article pop up in search results, they generally feel connected to you because of a previous experience.
Today’s digital readers have grown skeptical of clickbait. Readers have the incredible ability to spot what is coming and simply dismiss them. Don’t try to mislead your readers with exaggerations or hyperboles. You will end up annoying them. Instead, craft catchy headlines that speak directly to your target audience’s needs and pique their interest. These nine tips will help you write headlines people can’t help but click on. Which one are you going to try first?