How to Write Headlines That Drive More Business Blog Traffic

Imagine scrolling through your favorite blog or news app. What makes you stop? It’s usually the headline. That one line decides whether people click or keep scrolling.

If your headline doesn’t grab attention right away, even your best blog post might get ignored.

This is especially true if you run a business blog. Your headline isn’t just a title, it’s what pulls in readers, builds trust, and grows your audience. Writing good ones takes more than a creative spark. It’s a real strategy.

Why Your Blog Post Title Matters So Much

Think of your headline like a first impression. According to Copyblogger, 8 out of 10 people read the headline, but only 2 out of 10 read the rest.

That means if your title doesn’t work, most people won’t even give your post a chance. A boring title is like trying to fish without bait. But a strong one? That’s what gets you clicks and readers.

If you’ve been wondering why your blog isn’t getting the views it should, take a look at your titles. I talk more about this in 11 Business Blog Mistakes You Must Stop Right Now.

So, let’s go over what makes a great headline. One that gets results.

1. Be Clear First. Don’t Try to Be Clever

People need to know what they’ll get if they click. Confusing or vague titles might sound fun, but they usually don’t work.

✅ Weak: “Improve Your Landscaping Business”
✅ Strong: “How to Get More Clients for Your Landscaping Business in 30 Days”

The second one tells you exactly what you’ll learn and gives a time frame. That’s what works.

You can learn more about this idea in How to Drive More Traffic with a Winning Blog Strategy.

2. Use Numbers (They Work!)

People love lists. They’re easy to read and feel like they offer quick wins.

✅ Weak: “Tips for Marketing Your Bakery”
✅ Strong: “7 Simple Tips to Help You Sell More at Your Bakery This Month”

Try using odd numbers as they tend to catch the eye more. And make sure the number matches the actual content.

If you struggle to come up with list ideas, check out 7 Easy Ways to Generate Content Ideas for Business Blogs.

3. Make People Feel Something or Want to Know More

Good headlines spark curiosity or emotion. You can do this with strong words or by teasing something they’ll want to find out.

Try these:

• “11 Ideas That’ll Help Your Coffee Shop Make More Money”
• “Want More Customers? Try These Smart Moves for Café Owners”

Curious readers = more clicks. For more headline inspiration, check out Crush Your Competition: Blogging for Business Made Easy.

4. Think About SEO but Don’t Overdo It

Yes, search engines matter. But readers matter more.

Add important keywords (like “bakery marketing tips” or “small business blog strategy”), but make sure your headline still makes sense to a real person. Don’t try to fit in every keyword. It’ll sound strange and hurt your chances with both Google and your audience.

Check out SEO for Business Blogs: How to Get Found Online for help balancing search and reader-friendliness.

5. Use Easy Headline Templates

These headline types work again and again:

• How-To: “How to Style Outfits That Make Customers Return”
• Question: “What Makes Your Boutique Memorable to Shoppers?”
• List: “7 Fashion Pieces That’ll Help Your Boutique Make More Sales”
• Command: “Stop Stocking Products That Don’t Sell. Try This Instead”

Using these structures makes it easier to get started when you’re stuck.

6. Try a Few Versions and See What Works

You won’t always know which headline will do best until you test it. Write 3–5 options and track which one gets more clicks. You can do this with:

• Google Analytics
• Email subject line tests
• Social media performance

Need help writing blog content that attracts the right people? How to Write Irresistible Blogs for Your Ideal Clients covers that in detail.

Also, if you’re working on updating older content, How to Make Old Blog Content Feel Brand New shows you how to give your posts a new life with better titles and updates.

Start Here: Check Your Old Titles

Now that you know what makes a title get clicks, go back to your old posts. Update the ones that feel weak using these tips. A simple title change could lead to way more views and better results.

And if you want help writing blog posts that actually get read and shared, that’s what I do!

👉 Reach out anytime here