Crafting Attention-Grabbing Press Release Headlines That Get Noticed
Coming up with a compelling headline for your press release is crucial for gaining media coverage and readership. The headline is often the first thing people see and it determines whether they actually read your full release. Strong headlines pique interest, create intrigue and entice the reader to want to know more.
When writing headlines for press releases, you need to focus on making them informative yet captivating. Vague or overly promotional headlines will likely get ignored, while clear, benefit-focused headlines have a better chance of getting opened. Here are some tips and examples for crafting attention-grabbing press release headlines that get your important news noticed.
Keep it Short and Snappy
Press release headlines should be compact, direct and impactful. You want to communicate the essence of your news in as few words as possible. Industry experts recommend headlines with 6 to 10 words maximum. Being succinct forces you to hone in on the key takeaway you want readers to grasp right away.
Press release headline examples:
- New Smartwatch Doubles as Medical Device to Detect Irregular Heart Rhythms
- Local Nonprofit Launches Scholarship Fund for Low-Income STEM Students
- Software Company Releases AI-Powered Writing Assistant to Boost Productivity
Short headlines like these deliver the crucial information upfront in a scannable format.
Focus on Benefits and Value
Savvy press release headlines highlight the tangible benefits, value and importance of the news rather than just stating facts. Put yourself in the reader’s shoes – what would catch their attention or impact their work?
For instance:
- New Medication Significantly Reduces Migraine Pain for Chronic Sufferers
- Company Culture Ranking Awards Top Honor to Midwest Tech Firm for Work-Life Balance
- Breakthrough Sustainable Packaging Material to Reduce Plastic Waste in Oceans
These headlines demonstrate the real-world upside for readers, which compels them to read more.
Use Active Verbs and Descriptive Adjectives
Lively, descriptive words can add impact to your press release headlines. Opt for vivid verbs like “launches”, “unveils”, “announces”, and “introduces” rather than passive verbs like “has”, “is”, or “are.” Paint a picture with adjectives like “cutting-edge”, “innovative”, “revolutionary”, “breakthrough”, etc.
For example:
- Local Bakery Unveils Gluten-Free Sourdough Bread to Transform Artisanal Offerings
- Software Company Launches Cutting-Edge AI Assistant to Revolutionize Customer Service
- Nonprofit Announces Innovative Mobile Literacy Program for Underserved Kids
Powerful verbs and adjectives like these create intrigue and interest that generic headlines lack.
Highlight Numbers, Stats, or Facts
Including impressive numbers, statistics or facts in your press release headline can immediately convey newsworthiness and get attention. This strategy works well for headlines about research studies, industry reports, company growth metrics, etc.
For instance:
- Study Shows 72% Drop in Hospital ER Visits After Local Clinic Expansion
- Tech Company Doubles Revenue to $4M While Maintaining 98% Customer Satisfaction
- Nonprofit Serves 10,000 Meals Weekly in First Year of Food Assistance Program
Hard facts and figures indicate importance and authority, prompting readers to learn more.
Use Location References Strategically
For regional announcements or stories with a geographic angle, mentioning a city, state or country in the headline can be an impactful draw. This helps readers instantly recognize if the news affects their area.
Press release headline examples:
- Austin Startup to Create Over 100 Jobs with New Regional Headquarters
- Detroit Schools Receive $1.5M in Grants for STEAM Education Expansion
- India-Based Pharmaceutical Company Makes U.S. Market Entry with FDA Approval
Location references can boost relevance, especially for targeted local or national press.
Ask Questions to Prompt Engagement
Headlines that incorporate “why”, “how”, “what”, “should”, and other questions can effectively entice reader curiosity. But avoid being too cryptic or vague.
For instance:
- How is Downtown Bakery Thriving Despite COVID Downturn?
- What Will New Overtime Pay Law Mean for California Employers?
- Should Parents be Concerned About Increased Screen Time for Kids During Pandemic?
Thoughtful, open-ended questions invite reader interest and inquiry.
Include Press Release Subject Labels When Useful
At times, starting headlines with subject tags like “Research Shows”, “Study Finds”, “Experts Say” or “New Data” can lend credibility and importance, signaling value to readers. This can work well for data-driven studies, surveys and reports.
For example:
- Study Finds Regular Exercise Lowers Risk of Alzheimer’s by 60%
- Research Shows 70% of Consumers Rank Sustainability as Top Factor in Purchases
- Experts Say New Weight Loss Drug Could Help Obese Adults Lose Up to 40 Pounds
Subject labels act like headline highlighters, immediately conveying significance.
Optimize for SEO When Possible
While compelling copy should take priority, also consider optimizing press release headlines for SEO where possible. Incorporate vital keywords naturally so headlines are findable in search.
For instance:
- [City] Concert Venue Implements Contactless Payment and Ticketing for Post-Pandemic Events
- How Electric Vehicle Manufacturer Plans to Meet Demand For Sustainable Cars in [State]
- Study: Organic Foods Contain 50% Higher Levels of Antioxidants Than Conventional Produce
Keywords help the right readers locate your content during searches.
Don’t Overhype or Sensationalize
Avoid “clickbait” style headlines that overtly exaggerate or make unsubstantiated claims just to attract attention. You want credibility, not outlandish hype. Likewise, stay away from overused tropes like “breakthrough” or “best-in-class” unless these claims can be backed up convincingly in your full release.
Review and Refine Multiple Options
Creating one perfect press release headline on the first go is unlikely. Write at least 3-5 different headline options then review them objectively to determine which conveys the essence of your news in the most compelling way. Share draft headlines with colleagues to get feedback. Refine wording for maximum clarity and impact.
Align with Press Release Format
While headlines should be catchy, ensure they align with the standard press release format. Avoid inappropriate humor, gimmicky plays on words or flashy marketing lingo. Consider headline length guidelines from press release wire services like PR Newswire or GlobeNewswire. Ultimately, headlines should balance creativity with professionalism.
Impactful press release headlines can spell the difference between publicity success and failure. Take time to craft headlines that instantly convey importance, resonate with target audiences, and motivate readers to take an interest in your full announcement. Pay attention to key details like length, word choice, benefits and compelling questions or facts that hook attention. With practice and testing, you can master the art of writing great press release headlines that capture focus and drive engagement.
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