Writing a headline that works
Posted by scoop on November 2nd, 2006 in Blog basics, Tips, Writing |
A title is the first and may be the only thing readers will read about your blog entries, so make sure it catches their attention so they’ll take the time to stop and read on. How can you do that? It depends on what you’re writing about, and how you want them to pay attention.
- Be straightforward. A summary of what the entry is all about is great if you’re talking about the news, a list or an event. Try to keep it to a dozen words or less; any longer and it should go to your article. This is the simplest type of headline.
- Draw them in with a catchy phrase. You can use wordplay and clever puns to
Perfect for literary entries, to work in humor into a boring subject, Try to steer away from references that might be too obscure for the readers; after all, if they don’t get it, they won’t find it funny. - Ask. A question grabs attention because either the readers know the answer, or they don’t. Readers get curious, and once they’re curious, they’d read. It’s a great way to form a bond and have them read your content.
- Tantalize. People love reading about how they can improve an aspect of their lives, and hinting that your post will give them the secrets to it will have them clicking that link quicker than you can say “comment here!” You can sympathize with their problems, and confide in a soothing tone that you just might have the answer they need.
- Sometimes scare tactics can be quite effective, but you have to use it carefully. It can easily lead to criticism and violent reactions, but it does get people to stop and look in.
Though a great headline is like the hook to catch you readership, it’s only the beginning. Follow it up with a great article and they’ll surely come back to read past of your catchy headlines.
[tags]headlines, tips[tags]
