Getting someone to click on your link and read your content is at the crux of any content marketing effort. That’s why good headlines are something to be admired. They are something to study.

Headline Example #1: Giant Snails Found In Texas, But Don’t Freak Out

Well, I wasn’t going to freak out, but now that you mentioned it I might! I’m intrigued by this headline – not only because it appeared on Time.com – but because it’s so specific and conversational. This sounds like something I would say to my friend.

Headline Example #2: 20 Years Ago, Tupac Broke Through

How is it possible that 20 years have passed since “Keep Ya Head Up”? I clicked on this NPR link because my college friends and I spent many-a-night with Tupac in the background. Those are some powerful memories.

Whether the writer meant to or not, this headline struck an emotional chord. And getting emotional is always a good idea in headline writing.

Headline Example #3: This Vending Machine Will Give You Free Coffee If You Yawn In Its Face

Hate Gawker.com if you want, but you can’t deny that Gawker writers understand headline writing. Getting video views is equal parts good video content and descriptive headline. In this headline, Gawker makes it clear you will see something awesome happen. Who doesn’t want free coffee? Who doesn’t want to be one of the first people to see a soon-to-be viral video?

Headline Example #4: Have You Heard The One About President Joe Biden?

Question headlines work. Well, surprising questions work. Something like “What did you have for lunch today?” won’t do. But a question that makes you stop and go, “Wait, what?” That kind of question will result in a click.

Headline Example #5: You Won’t Finish This Article

I took this Slate headline as a challenge. Not only did I click the link, but I read the whole dang article because the headline told me I wouldn’t. A headline that challenges is risky, but it can pay off if done right.

 What’s the best headline you’ve clicked on today?

About Sara Lancaster

Sara is The Condiment Marketing Co.’s founder and creative director. She oversees client relationships, strategic marketing plans, as well as a bit of copywriting and social media management.