Why the "hook" works (+ examples you'll want to save for later)
It's a strategy as old as time — the good ole "hook" as we say in the biz.
That enticing one-or-two-line phrase that draws someone in to your caption, video, newsletter or blog right from the beginning. Newspapers have used it from the start to grab their readers' attention. Why? Because it works.
The hook is what gets people to continue reading. That's the goal.
The more time people spend on your content, the more valuable your content seems to the algorithm and, in turn, the more the algorithm will push your content out to a broader audience.
There are three common ways to grab your audience's attention hook, line and sinker:
- Identifying a specific audience. "If you struggle with _____, this is the solution!"
- Revealing a "juicy" tidbit. “You’ll never believe what I’m about to confess.”
- Asking an engaging question. "Do you want to know how to _____?"
Having writer's block? I'm here to help. Here are 15 surefire examples of hooks that 'actually' work:
- Do you know what day it is?!
- Has this happened to you before?
- I'm embarrassed to say this but . . .
- ____ tips that 'actually' work.
- Do you ever feel this way?
- Calling all cat lovers!!
- This is my best kept secret for ______.
- When is the last time you ______?
- Tell me I'm not alone on this ...
- I'd hate to admit it, but ...
- Can I ask you something super random?
- You'll never guess what I just did.
- Stop what you're doing and read this...
- Avoid these 5 mistakes when ______.
- The most common mistakes I see as a _______.
Now go out there and capture that attention of millions (or at least your followers)!