How to Write Headlines and Subheads

Posted: July 17, 2012

When people go to a site, they want an attention grabbing headline. Does your headline hold up?[caption id="attachment_10363" align="alignright" width="392"]© NLshop - Fotolia.com[/caption]

The first thing most readers notice in print or online is a headline. Think of it as a virtual handshake. If your headline is the text equivalent of a cold, dead fish, you’ll make a poor first impression. Or think of it as analogous to a cover letter or a request for a date. You only get one chance to introduce yourself — make it good.

Various types of headlines exist, and some are more suitable than others for various types of content. Here are eight categories appropriate for selling something, whether it’s a product or an idea, along with a sample headline of that type:

1. Direct: “Lawn Mowers on Sale”

Such an approach may seem dull, but consider that no single reader personality prevails; some people like an unadorned statement. Many people looking for lawn mowers on sale will be gratified to see the headline “Lawn Mowers on Sale” — “Ah, just what I was thinking.”

2. News: “Remote-Control Lawn Mower to Debut in April”

A journalistic headline conveys authority and is straightforward without being plain.

Read entire article How to Write Headlines and Subheads.