What’s the first thing that people see when they get your blog post or newsletter?
The Headline!
Your headline isn’t just a title, it’s the bait on your line, it’s the frosting on your cupcake, it’s the seduction.
Your headline is what gets seen first.
It either entices the reader to go on or it turns them away, ne’r to glance upon your fabulous article.
Think I’m kidding?
When you read an article or blog post, what makes you decide to read it? Why have you continued to read any of the articles you’ve chosen? It was because the headline grabbed you! It tickled your fancy. It whet your appetite for more.
What did you do then?
You read the article.
Here’s an interesting statistic I read from Brian Clark of Copyblogger.
On average, 8 out of 10 people will read your headline copy, but only 2 out of 10 will read the rest.
That means, if your headline doesn’t capture the reader’s attention it won’t compel them to continue. Each line of your content needs to urge your reader to read the next line. And so on, and so on…
Your headline is the promise to your reader that you are going to give them something of value. When the reader perceives there’s a benefit she’ll get from your material, she’ll continue to read. She’ll feel that you “understand her” and that your information is something she can use in her life.
Does your headline matter?
You bet is does! Here are the key elements of a good headline:
- Make your headline clearly stated. Flowery headlines may get your creative energy out, but most of the time they become the wallflower of the party. Headlines full of jargon, buzzwords or mumbo jumbo will get the brush off too. Your headline needs to be clear and to the point so it captures your audience’s interest and gets them to read the next line.
- Speak YOUR audience’s language. I know I just said flowery headlines won’t get read, but if your ideal audience is hippie gardeners, then by all means, be flowery. Using the language of your audience will get their attention and keep them interested in what you have to say.
- Convey Truth. No one likes to feel duped, betrayed or lied to. There’s no faster way to build trust, and be seen as a trusted source of information, than to be truthful. Period.
- Give the Benefit. Don’t make it a guessing game. Your reader wants to know what’s in it for them. Tell them right from the start with the benefit they get from reading your article, essay, or editorial.
If you’re feeling unsure about your headline, “How To” headlines (How To Improve Your Memory with Herbs) and Lists (The 7 Ways to Beat Summer Heat) are sure to get a read.
The more you practice writing headlines, the better, and more captivating, your headlines will be.
I’d love to hear some of your headlines that worked – and the ones that didn’t. Feel free to share them in the comments!
If you would like some headline help, I’m here for you. Contact me HERE.