Before we get stuck into the mega-list of power words, there are 5 important things you need to know:

1. Headlines serve many functions, but they all have the same, singular purpose {more on that in a moment}
2. Your headlines don’t need to be bodacious language gardens {no university degree required}
3. Truly irresistible headlines need to meet 6 key criteria {I’ll finish up the post with them}
4. Make sure you can back up your headline, ie don’t use “spectacular” in your headline, if your content is not.
5. YOU know your audience best – use the Treasure Trove with caution and keep your headlines authentic to your brand!

What’s the purpose of your headline?

Different headlines have different functions – click-through from search results, open the email, subscribe, stay on the page, read your blog, find out more, share on Facebook, join your community, choose a bouquet, book a spa day, sign up for your solopreneurs mastermind, buy a spot on your photography course… interview mime artists 😉

All headlines serve one purpose: to compel action by offering the promise of something more.

Your headline is one-part intrigue and one-part promise and your content must deliver on that promise.

We’re all getting sick of click-bait headlines and so are advertisers – Facebook, for example, is penalising them.

That means step one is producing quality content. Stick a “working” title on it and don’t stress about the headline until the end. When you’re finished, that’s the time to tweak and fine-tune your headline.