The Worst Headline Mistakes

Every time you Google something, scroll through your news feed, browse Facebook, or even walk past the library aisles, it’s always the headline that grabs your attention. 

We choose what to read or consume based on the headline. That’s what we see first—not the introduction, not the authors, not the reviews—the headline. 

In this article, I’ll show you how to create clickable headlines and highlight the worst mistakes you can make. 

Clickbait 

You’ve probably heard this word before, and chances are, you’ve fallen victim to it. Ever seen a headline like, “You will never believe this...” only to find some nonsense like, “American High School Kids Sent to Ukraine to Fight Russians”? 

That’s misleading and incorrect. Clickbait headlines are as old as Biden, and while people will keep falling for these traps, they rarely stick around after realizing they’ve been duped. In the end, it’s not worth it.

 So, let’s avoid misleading and scamming people altogether.

Too Long 

A lengthy headline can cost you readers. Take this as an example:

“Avoid These Headline Mistakes That Won’t Bring You Clients and Will Reduce Your CPR by 50% Which is Crucial for Successful Marketing.”

About halfway through, you’re lost, wondering what I’m even trying to say because it’s too wordy. 

You need to be short and to the point. Headlines should cut through the noise, not add to it. Readers already have enough going on in their heads—your headline needs to be easy and digestible. 

Stuffing Your Headline with Keywords 

Google’s algorithms have evolved. Simply stuffing keywords into your headline doesn’t work anymore. The search engine now pays attention to click-through rates, which will tank if your headline is a mess.

 Who would click on something like this?

“How to Generate Leads With Facebook, Run Facebook Ad Campaigns, and Get More Clients on Facebook.” What are you even trying to say?

 Remember, headlines are for readers. Make them sound like something a real person would say. 

Using Too Many Professional Terms 

You never know who your readers are—or who might buy from you. Using too much jargon will alienate potential buyers simply because the article feels too complex. 

A good rule of thumb? Use the BAR Test: Say your headline out loud. Does it sound like something you’d say to someone at a bar, or does it sound like a robot wrote it? If it’s the latter, rewrite it. 

Being Bland and Uninspiring 

Your headline should stand out and demand attention. The world doesn’t need another generic post like, “7 People to Follow on Social Media.” 

It needs more headlines like, “7 People Who Will Teach You Secrets About Marketing You Never Knew.” 

Be bold. Use your audience’s pain points to make them curious and excited to read your content. 

Final Thoughts 

If your headlines feel “meh” and don’t pack a punch, keep working on them until they do! 

Implement these tactics, avoid the mistakes, and watch your results improve. Your headlines are the gateway to your content—make them count!

P.S. Want me to show you exactly how to write headlines that sell? Fill out this form for a free strategy session—no cost, no obligation. Just actionable advice that’ll get you more clicks and sales.