The Ultimate Formula for Choosing Your Blog Post Title
Many years ago, I discovered a go-to resource that has become my headline writing Bible (so to speak) thanks to Marko Saric at HowToMakeMyBlog.com. Today, I want to share the key elements that make up the ultimate formula for choosing your blog post title correctly every single time!
A majority of the insights in this guide are inspired by Marko’s original post - see links to read more on his blog.
Consider SEO First
First off, we have to acknowledge the power of SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and the concept of “long-tail keywords”. Plainly put: These keywords are searchable phrases that your audience members will be looking for in order to hopefully reach YOUR content!
This is why it is so important NOT to have fluffy, creative titles on your blog posts and to follow headline writing techniques instead (I know, I wish I could have a fun, poetic title as much as the next gal, but that’s just not the way the cookie crumbles for us regular folk trying to grow our audiences!).
Many people argue that “clickbait” is wrong and I will be one of the first to say that when used correctly, clickbait is an awesome tool - and yes, this is coming from a self-proclaimed “content marketer serving heart-centered businesses”. In a day and age when so many people are producing content, we must utilize every possible tool to stand out. Once you master the use of keywords, you’ll be all set to circulate your blog content using Pinterest strategy.
Moving on, we must start with the elements of the blog post title that make it clickable. Each of your post titles should include two of these:
Elements of a Solid Blog Post Title
A Freebie
Give them something for free - a downloadable PDF, a discount, a free consultation, the list goes on.
A Timely Solution
Using keywords like “fast” and “quick” to generate feelings of timeliness in being able to resolve their issue.
A Teaser
Tease a specific number on a list at the end without divulging more information (“#10 will shock you!”).
A List
A listicle is an incredibly common type of blog post. Titles such as “The Top 7 _____ for _______”.
A Holistic Go-To
Just like this blog post title, if you can position the post as “the definitive” or “the ultimate”, do it!
A Response to a Desire
Name an explicit issue or thing your blog post is helping - eliminating acne, increasing mental wellbeing, etc.
A Personable Message
Nowadays, you’re competing with other content being created from their family and friends. Make your message and your purpose authentic and personable by sharing vulnerability or a relatable story.
A Question
Ask a question, but only a question that can be answered yes! (“Looking for ways to be more productive?”)
A Call-Out
When fitting, use “you” in the title to directly call out the reader.
A Warning or Promise
I think my favorite buzzword is “hacks”, but similarly, “warnings”, “mistakes”, “secrets” are all great.
A Celebrity Mention
This may not be possible, but anytime you can name drop, that may prove helpful to your cause.
Fill-In-The-Blank Examples
If you’re in need of some exact fillable examples that you can utilize today, Marko’s list of formulas is fantastic.
Trigger Words
In addition to your initial formula, utilize trigger words (for example: controversial, forbidden, greatest, surprising) to generate an emotional reaction. A quick Google search of trigger words can supply some good ideas.
Finding Inspiration Elsewhere
The front pages of magazines offer some pretty incredible resources! Similarly, BuzzFeed, Upworthy and The Daily Mail’s blogs utilize writing techniques like these that can give you some great ideas for driving high amounts of traffic through the infamous “clickbait” factor. Explore these approaches and try some of them out on your own!
As a good rule of thumb, you should write a handful of possible titles using this overall formula and then choose the best, favorite title. Did these tips help you generate some ideas and get those creative juices flowing? If you have any questions about any of these concepts, don’t hesitate to reach out below in the comments or via DM!
