A top headline grabs attention and entices readers to find out more. It’s your first, maybe only, shot to hook a reader and prove that the rest of your article is worth their time. A great headline is the difference between 20 clicks and 20,000.
Often, top headlines use a combination of elements to create their punchy impact. They include powerful, emotive words, short and sweet phrases, and specific numbers or lists. They also incorporate a sense of urgency to ensure that readers act now.
In addition, a great headline will ask what’s in it for the reader and answer that question clearly. It’s the equivalent of putting “Donuts” on a sign outside your bakery, letting people know what they’ll get if they step inside.
To come up with a great headline, think about your audience and what kind of content they share on social media. What kinds of questions do they have and what solutions do you offer? These are the infectious agents that drive engagement.
If you’re having trouble generating ideas, try reviewing some top headlines from across your industry to see what they have in common. You might be surprised at how similar they are and how easy it is to pull together a strong, engaging headline. Don’t be afraid to experiment, either. Sometimes you need to write a lot of headlines before one sticks. This will help you find the right tone and structure to attract your audience’s attention and motivate them to read more.