Using Clever Headlines in Search Engine Optimization

Although it may seem like the best way to gain followers is by making your visitors laugh via the use of clever headlines, this might not necessarily translate into an increased conversion rate. The idea that putting them in a good mood will make your websites call to action more attractive isn’t necessarily that clear-cut.

The problem however is that you would be assuming that your web audience is both clever and has a sense of humour. This is quite often not the case. While some of your visitors may immediately get the reference, some may not. When the latter happens, your conversion rate drops and your bounce rate increases.

While clever or funny headlines may aid in securing a few hits, headlines that are relevant come with additional benefits:

1.) SEO
Some landing pages work perfectly in terms of being indexed by search engines. These generally include pages that don’t include time sensitive data or group-specific offers. Landing pages that have been optimized can aid in increasing brand awareness as well as increase leads/sales. By writing headlines that include relevant keywords, you can help the search engines to properly index you.

2.) Clarity
A clear headline implies one that is easily understood by all visitors that reach your landing page. This is important because you only have a few seconds to capture their attention. A clear, benefits-driven headline will work the best.

3.) Conciser
Because visitors will only skim across your landing page before deciding to stay or leave the site, concise headlines are very important. By making use of short, sweet headlines, you will be enabled to keep visitors on the site longer, thus increasing your chances for winning the conversion.

4.) Call-to-actionr
A relevant headline should be your primary consideration on the path towards your call-to-action. Clever headline writing does require a bit of creativity. It has to not only include relevant keywords, but has to do so without being too talkative. Within those few words it has to capture your visitors’ attention and point them towards your call-to-action. Luckily online testing allows you to first try a variety of different headlines on portions of your traffic, and you should be able to discern which ones work most effectively with regards to increasing conversion rates.

Effective web page headline writing is part art, part science, and all about relevance.