[DD] Hyperbole in headlines... like binge eating the whole block of chocolate

Who doesn’t want to write the headline that goes viral? But the overuse of hyperbole in headlines is becoming tiresome. We've all seen them -– the clickbait headlines. Sites like BuzzFeed, ViralNova and Upworthy and even Huffington Post use them to drive traffic. Transferring them to a business context you see formulas like: “This simple copywriting technique will blow your mind” “The new social media platform everyone is talking about” “Are you making the one mistake that destroys your business reputation?” “I tried this new headline formula and you wouldn’t believe what happened next” “Copywriters hate this new writing trick” Click-bait headlines are kinda fun to read but leave you feeling a bit grubby afterwards. I have to admit, I feel a bit dirty just writing those. As copywriters, we aim to write clever headlines that get readers’ attention. Using [power words]( to tap into [emotional motivation]() is part of strong copywriting. Using hyperbole (over-exaggeration) tricks readers into satisfying their curiosity. If the article doesn’t live up to its promise, readers are left feeling cheated. When it happens time and time again, the brand is tainted. Tips for writing great headlines without resorting to hyperbole 1. Focus on benefits that align with the readers’ interest 2. Use numbers and percentages 3. Incorporate the keywords people are using 4. Use subheadings to back up your big headline promise Are you over the clickbait headlines or do they still hook you in? I will admit… they still get me now and then. Hit reply and let me know! Belinda Improve your copy skills and confidence with training and support (and have a giggle with other word nerds) in my free Facebook group: For The Love Of Copy. [Request to join here](=).= Hey, you're getting these emails because you signed up to the Daily Draft. If you want to tap out of these emais but nothing else), [hit this link](. No hard feelings. If you want out of everything >> [Unsubscribe]( Where am I? 101 N. Brand Blvd. 11th Floor, Glendale, California 91203