The keys to a compelling headline

One would think all you have to do to write a compelling headline is add a number, create a “how to,” or drop a famous name.

It turns out it is much more work than that, particularly if you want to attract both humans and Google.

You have to be creative and you have to be strategic.

A compelling headline is not to be taken lightly.

Be creative

First, to create a compelling headline, look at the project with a creative eye. Think about it from the perspective of a reader and try to imagine what would grab them, draw them in, and make them curious to want to not only read more, but share the piece with their social communities.

Think of things, such as:

Of course, the keyword or phrase must be included, and it’s ideal to place it as close as possible to the start of the headline. That said, it should never feel forced. To be a compelling headline, it has to work as a lure, and trying to make something fit where it just doesn’t will work to your detriment when it comes to your audience and other potential readers.