Do you know the single most important job of every article title? It’s getting the reader to read your article, which arguably makes it the most important part of every article you write. It’s the first thing most people will read; the first impression. So it must grab your ideal reader’s attention and make them a promise they can’t refuse—in about fifteen words or less.
How do you accomplish that? Consider the following five strategies for writing article titles that attract your ideal readers:
1. Keyword Search Terms
When you plan on publishing an article online, the title should always include your primary search terms—this makes it easier for your readers to find your article. So for every article you write, think about what a person in your ideal market might type in the search field when they’re looking for a solution you can provide. Do some keyword research on Google and other search engines to find out what phrase will likely bring you the best readers, and find a way to work that into your title.
2. Benefits
Human beings are first and foremost interested in one thing: “What’s in it for me?” Whether we realize it or not, this is the most important thing on our minds, particularly when we’re reading a marketing article online. Use this human behavior to your advantage by stating the benefits (what’s in it for them) of your solution in your article titles.
Let’s look at two examples. First, “How to Avoid High-Fat Foods this Holiday.” That’s an okay title, but now consider the second example: “How to Stay Slim this Holiday.” If you’re a person who struggles with their weight (don’t we all!), which article are you more likely to read? Number two! Why? Because “avoiding high-fat foods” doesn’t sound like fun, but “staying slim,” is something everyone wants to do—it’s a benefit.
3. Numbers
If it makes sense for your article, use a number in the title. People, for some reason, respond to the idea that a solution is only X number of steps away. For example, “Five Steps to Eliminate Credit Card Debt.” Numbers can also suggest variety. For example, “Three Ways to Avoid Holiday Weight Gain,” lets readers know there are X number of potential solutions to their problem. In either case, using a number in your title lets readers know that a better life is within reach—all they have to do is read your article!
4. Intrigue
The more articles I write the more conscious of this strategy I’ve become. Getting my articles noticed among the flood of content on the internet is tricky, and my best solution is adding a little twist of intrigue, or something that will get attention. Here are a few examples:
“The Cheater’s Guide to Losing Weight,” is more intriguing than, “How to Lose Weight.”
And “How Not to Sound Pompous When Writing Your Company Bio,” is more intriguing than, “How to Write an Effective Company Bio.” It just sounds more fun to read.
5. A Question
When you’re asked a question, it’s really hard not to think about the answer, which makes question titles a great way to spark curiosity and pull people into your article. Consider this example, “Are You Making the Three Biggest Mistakes in Real Estate Investing?” If you’re interested in buying real estate, then your brain will naturally be compelled to seek the answer to that question. Here are a few more examples: “Who Else Wants Double Their Income This Year?” and “Is Your Dog at Risk for Diabetes?”
Writing Your Next Great Title
Titles are critically important to your article marketing success. The title is the first thing potential readers see when they find your article, and you don’t want it to be the last (and only) thing they read. When you use these five strategies for your article titles, your ideal audience won’t hesitate to read on.
Comments? Have any favorite titles to share?
About the Author: Melinda Copp helps self-employed professionals, coaches, consultants, and speakers write and publish to establish expertise, attract a following of ideal readers and clients, and make more money. Sign up for her weekly writing and marketing e-zine, and get a free report on writing to grow richer!
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