First impressions are very important, and that also holds true for headlines in a Google search. When creating a title for your website’s article or blog, it is important to create a headline that is both attention-grabbing and good for SEO. Here are some tips to formulate the best headlines to boost SEO.

best headlines to boost SEO

1. Utilize proven phrases.

Certain phrases have proven themselves to be catchier than others over time. Some examples include:

  • How to…
  • The secret to…
  • Best tips…
  • Easy steps…
  • What you need to know about…

These phrases are especially helpful if you are new to blog writing and SEO. However, as you gain more practice in blog writing, you can feel free to get more creative. Be sure to switch up phrases so things do not get too repetitive.

2. Use numbers for an easy read

Numbered lists are very popular amongst readers because they are easy to organize and easy to read. Including a number in your headline lets your reader know that the will be getting a simple, well-constructed, point-by-point article with the information they are looking for.

3. Include your SEO focus keyword.

Keywords are crucial when optimizing your website’s search engine performances. It is important to include them in the body of your content as well as your headline. For the most efficient search, your keywords should be located at the beginning of your headline.

4. Make the title length optimal for SEO

In addition to including your focus keyword for SEO, be sure to also create a headline that is the correct length. While there’s no exact limit to characters in your title, Google generally shows the first 50-60 characters of the title tag. Keeping your title under 60 characters makes it much more likely that your headline in a Google search will display properly.

5. Keep social media in mind.

When you create content for your website, shareability is an important factor to keep in mind. Can the title and hashtags fit in 140 characters for Twitter? Have you included a relevant photo that is suitable to share on Instagram and Facebook? These questions must be kept in mind in order to drive the most traffic to your blog.  

6. Incorporate catchy adjectives

Descriptive adjectives add significant interest to a headline that will be more likely to compel a reader. Seeing words like “surprising”, “essential”, and “free” will catch the attention of your audience and bring more engagement.