How the press gets you to read its bogus stories
Published: Wed, 06/22/16
Like this headline at the top of Yahoo News this morning:
"San Diego high school cheerleader charged in fatal beating of homeless man"
Now, what is the first thing you think when you read that headline?
I thought, "Holy crap, an 18-year old cheerleader beat a homeless man to death."
But no.
The story then goes on to say:
"A high school cheerleader has been charged in connection with the beating death of a homeless man in San Diego County, officials said.
"Hailey Suder, 18, pleaded not guilty Monday to two felony counts of being an accessory after the fact, according to Tanya Sierra, spokeswoman for the San Diego County district attorney’s office.
"Suder was dating one of two brothers charged with killing 50 year-old George Lowery, the San Diego Union-Tribune reported. Sheriff’s homicide investigators did not say what role she played in Lowery’s death, and which brother she was dating."
Emphasis added...So how do you like those apples? Pretty crappy "journalism," if you ask me.
But you didn't ask... :)
What's the point?
Well, you could get all "click baity" and make up scandalous headlines to get people to read your blog posts and emails.
Or you could "take the high road" and be truthful and clever.
I'd change the headline above to something like this:
"High school cheerleader charged in conspiracy involving the murder of a helpless homeless man."
Or something to that effect.
You get the point. I think my headline is better and honest. I think it would "get the click."
If only there were a tool that could help you create better headlines (or subject lines in emails)...Hmm...
There is!
SumoMe's Kickass Headline Generator
Trust me: It's fun. But it's not perfect. You WILL need to edit.
But give it a whirl next time you need a kickass headline or subject line.
This tool will also help you with Facebook ads.
Remember this: Your headline is designed SOLELY to get people to read your story. But you can choose to be honest and clever or dishonest and lazy.
Until next time,
Bill
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