How to Choose the Best Headline For Your Ads

[Dale King]

Internet users are notorious scanners. That's why the headlines you use in your ads and sales letters are so important. Headlines act as stop signs in a crowded universe buzzing with scanners in this medium known as the "information superhighway."

The best way to get a scanners attention is to write a compelling, targeted headline that answers the question, "What's in it for me?" Because ultimately, all your prospect really cares about is what he or she going to get out of the deal.

Many marketers make the fatal mistake of writing headlines that try to sell to everyone, and as a result end up selling to no one. It's important to remember, when writing headlines you can't be all things to all people. Everyone is not your audience.

That's why it's so important to make sure your headlines are targeted to your audience. For example, suppose you sell hosting services. A good targeted headline would be:

"90 Days Free, Quality 5 Star Hosting!"

What makes that such a good headline? It's completely targeted to people interested in hosting services. Now even though the words may appear simple, I purposely chose my words very carefully. I chose words that sell. However, since this article is not really a primer on how to write headlines, I suggest you pick up a copy of "Words That Sell" by Richard Bayan

It's very important to invest some time into creating your headlines. To end up with the best, targeted headline possible, you need to write dozens of variations of potential headlines and then narrow your list down to the best one.

So how can you determine your best headline? Show your headlines to friends and family to see what they think. If you belong to a small business forum, get the opinions of forum members.

Just remember though, no matter what opinions others may have about your headlines, the decision is ultimately going to come down to you and your gut instinct.

Dale King

[Kurt Henninger]