From Google ads to Facebook ads (or any type of advertising, really), the headline is always one of the most important elements. After all, it’s the first thing that people will see. If it’s not attention-grabbing, they’ll likely move on without reading the rest of your ad. That’s why it’s so important to learn how to write ad headlines that make people want to stop and learn more. How? Here are a few tips to get you started.
1. Keep It Short and Sweet
When it comes to writing headlines for ads, less is definitely more. Ad headlines should be clear, concise, and to the point. After all, you only have a limited amount of space to make an impression on potential customers, so you need to make every word count. Keep in mind that people are often scanning ads quickly, so your headline needs to grab their attention and give them a reason to read on. In addition, using simple language and avoiding jargon will help to ensure that your message is understandable and accessible to as many people as possible. A good rule of thumb is to keep your headline to six words or less.
2. Use Strong Keywords
When you’re writing ad headlines, it’s important to use the right keywords. But how can you tell? There are a few things to look for. First, look for keywords with high search volume. This means that lots of people are searching for this term, which means there’s high demand for whatever it is you’re selling. Second, look for keywords with low competition. This means that there aren’t a lot of other businesses competing for this keyword, so you have a better chance of ranking highly for it. Finally, consider the intent of the searcher. Are they looking to buy something? If so, then you want to use keywords that reflect that intent.
3. Make a Promise (and Keep It)
Your headline should make a promise of what the reader will find if they click through to your website or landing page. For example, a headline like “5 Tips for Writing Better Headlines” promises that the reader will learn something from your article. And when you deliver on that promise, you’re more likely to convert readers into customers or subscribers.
4. Use Impactful Verbs
As any copywriter knows, the right verb can make all the difference in a headline. After all, the goal of a headline is to grab attention and make readers want to learn more. And there’s no better way to do that than by using a verb that packs a punch. Impactful verbs like “boost,” “explode,” and “transform” convey a sense of urgency and excitement that can’t help but get noticed. At the same time, they also suggest that the product or service being advertised has the power to improve users’ lives in a significant way. So if you’re looking to write headlines that get results, be sure to choose your verbs carefully. The right verb can mean the difference between a forgettable ad and one that really pops.
5. Make It Benefit-focused
Too many businesses are quick to talk about features instead of benefits. Don’t make this mistake! Your headline should be focused on the benefits that your product or service. What can you do for your potential customers? How will they benefit from using your product or service? Answering these questions in your ad headline will help entice people to click through to learn more about what you have to offer.
6. Use Numbers and Symbols
Numbers and symbols can help to communicate key information about your product or service at a glance. For example, using a number in your headline (e.g., “5 Tips for Writing Great Ad Headlines”) can make it more eye-catching and easier to remember. And using symbols like asterisks or exclamation points can also help add emphasis and grab attention. Just be careful not to overdo it.
Although it may be challenging, taking the time to write effective headlines for your ads is worth the effort. By following the tips we’ve provided, you can create headlines that will get noticed and drive results for your company.
If you want ad headlines that slow scrolls and get clicks, Holland Adhaus is here to help. We specialize in developing creative and effective advertising solutions that convert. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you grow your business.
Courtney Henderson
SEO Strategist, Holland Adhaus
Courtney knows SEO is more than just a bunch of keywords and a checklist.
