7 Foolproof Guidelines for Crafting Headlines that Stand Out on Google Search

Introduction

You have written a masterpiece, but your headline doesn’t stand out on Google’s search page. What’s the point of having great content if no one clicks on the link? A well-crafted headliner is not a mere afterthought. It is what catches a reader’s attention. Therefore, this blog post presents seven foolproof guidelines for crafting headlines that stand out on Google search.

1. Use Numbers to Your Advantage

How to make a cake is boring. But “10 Easy Steps to Baking Delicious Cakes” is catchy. By adding numbers to your headline, it shows that the reader is getting specific information. Psychologically, people trust lists, and the numbers help them to remember it better. Remember to keep the number even. An odd number may make it seem incomplete.

2. Focus on the Benefits

When crafting a headline, think about what the reader can gain from reading your article. Everyone wants to know what’s in it for them. For example, instead of “How to Choose the Right Toothpaste,” use “10 Secrets to a Brighter Smile.” The second headline appeals more to someone who wants to have a brighter smile.

3. Use Power Words

Power words evoke emotions in your reader, and if you use them effectively, your headlines will be irresistible. Here are some examples of power words; proven, ultimate, easy, new, and free. However, ensure that you use them sparingly. If every other word is a power word, the headline may come off as clickbaity.

4. Target the Reader’s Emotions

If you can get a reader’s emotions flowing, they are more likely to click on your headline. For example, Which headline would make you click? “How to Clean Your Room,” or “The One Secret to a Tidy Room That No One Ever Told You.” The second headline ignites curiosity and a sense of uncovering something new.

5. Keep it Short and Simple

Google search only displays 60 characters in length for a headline. Therefore, keep your headline short, concise, and memorable. Avoid using long headlines that do not make sense. A simple and understandable headline is easier for readers to understand and remember.

6. Utilize Keywords Effectively

Include keywords from your content in your headline. This increases the chances of your article being featured in search engine results. But, avoid stuffing too many keywords into your headline. Every word in your headline must count. The keywords should flow naturally within the headline so that it doesn’t come off as forced.

7. Write and Rewrite

Try several brainstormed topics for your headline, and pick the best one. Then, write different variations of that headline repeatedly. Each time you write, you will come up with something new. Write different variants to find a headline that speaks to the reader and is unique to your content.

7 FAQs:

Q1. Why do headlines matter in SEO?

A1. Headlines catch your readers’ attention. They play a vital role in getting your article ranked high on search engines and increase user engagement.

Q2. What are some popular power words that can be used in headlines?

A2. Some of the popular power words used in headlines are easy, ultimate, proven, affordable, and free.

Q3. What is a good length for a headline?

A3. Google search displays only 60 characters in the headline. Therefore, keep your headline short, concise, and memorable.

Q4. When should you utilize numbers in the headline?

A4. Numbers must be utilized when you want to provide precise information to the reader. It also helps you build trust with the reader.

Q5. Is it wise to use clickbait headlines?

A5. Using clickbait headlines may drive traffic to your website. However, it may increase your bounce rate, and it is seen negatively by search engine algorithms.

Q6. How should I write a headline if I’m unsure about what keywords to use?

A6. If you’re unsure about what keywords to use, then the best way is to use the headline to highlight the benefits of the content.

Q7. What is the best way to write a headline?

A7. To write a headline that stands out on Google search, utilize numbers, focus on benefits, power words, keywords, emotions, keep it short and simple, and write repeatedly to perfect it.

Conclusion

Writing a headline that stands out on Google search is essential for generating traffic to your website. Remember to utilize numbers, power words, emotions, keywords, target your readers, keep it short and simple, and most importantly, write and rewrite your headlines. By following these seven foolproof guidelines, you can create headlines that stand out in Google search.