Giving Headlines

(the quick and dirty tips for writing headlines)

Headlines are very important as they’re the first point of contact to the consumer. Here’s some tips on how to create an impact and get the reader to keep reading.

• Don’t be mysterious! (This isn’t YouTube clickbait. Be clear upfront so people know what you mean from the start).
• Blank-sheet-of-paper test it. (“Show a stranger your headline. Do they understand the basic concept behind it”? (Lurie, 2014)).
• Avoid scaring the reader! (Imply the lesson but try a positive twist. “Drive high and you will die” is scary and won’t entice consumers to continue to read).
• Remember: A headline isn’t a caption! The headline is the first pitch to consumers.
• Write headlines with a specific benefit of feature showcased (This could include testimonials).    

(Lurie, 2014)

Pro Tip: Never write more than 5-6 lines per paragraph, no more than 13 words per line, and no more than 3-4 paragraphs per section (Lurie, 2014).

Conclusion/Takeaways:

Headlines are the first touchpoint to the consumer. Be clear with what the headline is about. Don’t scare the reader. Also obviously take the reasoning for writing the headline. In example, I’m writing a fun student-oriented blog for marketing. To keep the vibe fun, I’m making my headers fun and joke-y while still getting the general point across. If I were to write a blog for older people in the industry, I’d choose more straight-forward headers like “How to Write Marketing: Headers”.

If you have any questions or comments regarding headlines? Leave them in the comments section down below!

Sources:

Lurie, I. (2014, May 30). Learning to Write Marketing Copy. Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/learning/learning-to-write-marketing-copy/