In the world of magazines and traditional media, a headline does more than grab attention—it sets the tone for the entire piece, draws readers into the story, and aligns with the publication’s voice. While flashy clickbait might work online, traditional media calls for a more thoughtful approach. Here’s how to craft headlines that resonate:
Prioritize Clarity Over Cleverness
Your headline should immediately communicate the essence of the story. Readers of traditional media value headlines that inform without confusion.
Example: "The Evolution of Urban Design: How Cities Are Adapting to Change"
Highlight the Hook
What’s the most compelling part of your story? Lead with that. Whether it’s a surprising fact, a unique perspective, or a timely issue, make it the centerpiece of your headline.
Example: "From Farm to Table: Inside the Movement Reshaping American Agriculture"
Evoke Curiosity, but Deliver on It
A headline should intrigue readers without misleading them. Strike a balance between creating curiosity and staying true to the article's content.
Example: "The Art of the Comeback: How One CEO Saved a Failing Brand"
Use Active, Dynamic Language
Strong verbs and active phrasing energize your headlines, making them more engaging.
Example: "Revolutionizing Healthcare: The Technologies Saving Lives Today"
Reflect the Tone of the Publication
A magazine’s audience and style should guide your word choice and tone. For serious journalism, keep it formal; for lifestyle pieces, you can add some flair.
Formal: "The Future of Renewable Energy: Challenges and Opportunities"
Lifestyle: "Sustainable Style: How Eco-Fashion Became Chic"
Lean on Alliteration and Rhyme
For lifestyle or entertainment pieces, playful techniques like alliteration or rhyme can make headlines more memorable.
Example: "Bold and Beautiful: Redefining Modern Minimalism"
Incorporate Numbers and Lists
While this is a staple for digital headlines, it works well in print too—especially for how-to articles or features.
Example: "5 Trends Shaping the Next Decade of Travel"
Pose a Provocative Question
Questions invite readers to ponder an answer, drawing them into the article for insight.
Example: "Is AI the End of Creativity as We Know It?"
Use Subheadlines for Context
Traditional media often allows for subheadlines, which can add depth and entice readers further.
Example
Headline: "The Renaissance of Rural America"
Subhead: "Why Young Professionals Are Moving Back to Small Towns"
Study the Greats
Look at award-winning publications for inspiration. Analyze how they balance brevity, intrigue, and clarity in their headlines.
Practice Makes Perfect
Writing for traditional media requires a fine-tuned sense of both your audience and the publication’s voice. Headlines in print have staying power—make them count. Keep practicing, refining, and experimenting, and soon you'll be crafting headlines that leap off the page.
What’s your favorite traditional media headline? Let us know in the comments or share your own tips!
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