When we see a new post on social media or open a page on a news website, the first thing that catches our eye is the headline. It's concise, often intriguing, and arouses our curiosity.
Creating an effective headline is an art that requires an understanding of reader psychology and knowledge of proven formulas. It is important that the headline not only attracts attention, but is also relevant to the content of the article, meeting the reader's expectations. How to create a headline that really ‘hooks’? Fincraft Capital Czech Republic experts have analysed several effective formulas that have been forgotten in vain.
1. ‘Why?’To know the answer in advance - isn't it a dream come true? We instinctively look for answers to satisfy our curiosity, to know the reason, to understand something new. Therefore, ‘Why?’ questions instantly grab our attention. Human beings are by nature lazy and rational: if it is possible to get an answer or a solution without too much effort, they will definitely take that chance.
‘Why don't the old methods of promotion work anymore in 2024?’
‘Why are your competitors always one step ahead? Breaking down the reasons.’
2. ‘Who else’, ’You too’ Social proof principle: If someone does something, it means it is important and worthy of attention. The headline question appeals to a sense of group membership and social proof. People tend to act if they see others doing the same. They are driven by a desire to keep up with others and be aware of what others are doing.
‘Who else wants to double their profits in 2025?’
‘Are you missing this opportunity too?’
3. ‘Now...’ or ’Here...’ In a world where news and trends change each other at an incredible speed, such headlines help to highlight the material against the background of outdated topics, create a sense of novelty and relevance. The question form changes to an affirmative: you get ‘benefit’ rather than ‘get rid of the problem’
‘Now your business can grow faster: New tools.’
‘Here are the best case studies of successful campaigns for 2024.’