From the increased tensions with North Korea and a hurricane season like no other to bombshell allegations of sexual misconduct, 2017 was one for the books. But there are lessons in the drama that can help you write more compelling headlines for your content.
Identify the Benefits to Your Audience
A great headline is one that promises your audience something valuable—a solution, a way forward, or even a laugh. A headline that makes a bold promise will stand out on social media and search results, and it’s more likely to catch someone’s attention and get clicked.
Use an Active Voice
Your headline should be active and direct to grab readers’ attention. This means avoiding passive phrases and opting for powerful verbs, such as “ace,” “disrupt,” or “convert.” In fact, the most clickable headlines are simple and straightforward (and not at all misleading).
Keep It Short
In today’s mobile inboxes, subject lines get truncated after 45 or so characters. A short headline is more likely to make the cut, and it will also catch people’s eyes as they scroll social feeds or search for content.
OptinMonster’s Headline Analyzer can help you elevate your headline game. Try it free to see how your headlines stack up against the competition. Then test out some of these top headlines to boost your traffic and conversions. Your readers and search engines will thank you.
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