Speedbump headlines, or even better, stop sign headlines grab attention. They make the reader stop in their tracks and reevaluate before moving on. Let me reassure you. This may seem simple; it is!
Don’t be intimidated by the thought of writing headlines. You don’t need to be a copywriter. Headlines are used for PowerPoint presentations, sales calls, emails, and more. Use these psychological triggers and you’ll be moving more people to action in no time.
Question-Based & Curious Headlines
Try a headline in the form of a question. Questions make people think harder than statements. The little squiggly question mark makes your brain want to know more. Make the question problem-based for even more power. Bring to the fore your customers “point of pain.” When you’re audience identifies with the problem they’ll be ready to solve it.
Get people curious by using the right words. Use definitives when possible. Words like “the” or “these” imply there is only one solution (or set of choices). The reader will have to read on to know what the answer is; we’re naturally inquisitive. “How to” headlines are usually curiosity based. Starting with “why” can also be highly effective.
Revise and Perfect
Make a list of several possible headlines. You’ll want to keep your headline simple. First, can you cut out unnecessary words? Ask if your headline could be a question. Does it address the correct audience and will it appeal to them? Does it address a problem? Go ahead; ask some friends or colleagues which one of your headlines “speaks” to them.
Crafting attention-getting headlines that will make viewers stop in their tracks and become readers is part science and part art. It’s worth the effort to improve your skills. The slightest difference in headline wording could bring monumental changes to your click through rate, conversions, and sales.
Got some headline ideas that you need to “bounce off” someone? Send me an email. terra@fletcherfreelance.com.
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