What makes a captivating headline?

[stevenj]

Your headline is the most important piece of copy on your page. A captivating will make people click on your article or make them continue reading.

Here are 2 headlines and I will explain why one is better than the other.

Lose belly fat fast

vs

Discover the secret that 97% of dieticians agree will help you shed belly fat in 2 weeks.

Most people would agree that the second headline is far more captivating and here is why:
1. Use of emotive language such as "discover"
2. Including numbers makes statement more believable
3. Name dropping dieticians build credibility
3. Time frame makes it seem achievable

People are often worried that writing a long headline means people won't read it however the opposite is the truth. Create long captivating headlines over short one any day if you want your content read.

 

[arossi]

Great post. I just read an article on how to write an effective headline and according to the article you are correct.

It also stated that a headline should offer a promise then use what they referred to as the:

Four “U”s

1. Useful: “how to wash dishes”
2. Unique: “how to wash dishes with vinegar”
3. Ultra-specific: “4 ways to wash dishes with vinegar”
4. Urgent: “4 ways to wash dishes with vinegar before you get cholera”
(put deadline, limited copies, bad or good if you dont act now)

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