Advertisement Headline – Importance of the headline in ads
Why do readers stop in the middle of an article to see an ad? In most cases, it is as a result of the advertisement headline’s ability to attract attention.
Research has proved that the number of people who read advert headlines is five times more than those who take time to read the body of the advert itself. It is therefore true that advertisers spend 80% of their advertising expenditure on the headline. It is for this reason that the headline is the most important component of an advert.
Ignorance among advertisers in small businesses makes them miss out on the opportunity to get the attention of potential customers through effective advertising. Some even post advertisements without headlines. This is a mistake they should not be making if they were aware of its negative effect.
The first thing the reader ideally sees upon opening a page, magazine, post card or letter is the headline. It takes the nest three seconds for the reader to decide whether to read further or stop or continue with other contents. The headline must therefore quickly grab the reader’s attention and hold it for a while.
Writing eye catching headlines can sometimes be a taunting task. The following are some simple guidelines on how to go about.
- Identify a word or two that can create urgency. This is because the headline should convince the reader to stop and read the advert then and not at a later time.
- Use facts to create headlines. People dislike like deceptive messages and will avoid them at all times. In addition, it should point out specific information or item to the reader.
- The advertisement headline should contain something the reader should find valuable. All humans desire something that is helpful to them, at least in some way. It should also give them a justification to continue reading the article.
- It should be “loud” enough on your ability to offer them something unique from what they know or have access elsewhere. If it is not very unique, it should then be interesting, at least.
These tips should help you develop eye catching headlines and those that have the ability to hold the reader’s attention for a little longer. The advert should always give them a reason to read on and offer some assistance in doing something they would be glad to be helped on. Moreover, avoid overused phrases or statements.
It is advisable to start by writing some headlines that clearly communicate the benefits or promise the advert gives. Use “Attention Getting Power Words” such as “Just Arrived”, “Discover…” and “At last…” among others. Try to use at least three of the above guidelines.
