Headlines that grab attention seamlessly draw the audience into exploring your article. But sometimes, after opening an article, readers feel like something is off or missing. They can’t quite get into it because the link between a headline and the content is lacking. This is where a great subheadline comes in.
Source: Freepik
In this article, we’ll discuss what a subheadline is and clear up confusion around subheadings and subheadlines. Then, we’ll share key tips for crafting impactful subheadlines that keep readers engaged. Let’s get started!
What Is a Subheadline?
Source: Freepik
Have you ever found some supporting text just below a headline in articles? That was your exposure to a subheadline! It’s a subheadline that bridges the gap between the SEO headline (H1 heading) and the rest of the article content. The word sub-headline forms when we combine ‘sub’ and ‘headline’, hinting at its function.
It is basically a secondary headline that provides contextual support to your main headline. It invites the readers to plunge into the article further. A well-crafted subheadline achieves three key objectives:
- Captivates your readers’ curiosity.
- Offers a preview of what’s to come.
- Adds clarity and momentum.
Therefore, writing an attention-grabbing subheadline (or subhead) is as important as writing good headlines.
Source: Atlassian Blog
Generally, people think of a subheading and a subheadline as the same idea. But both terms are different, serving different purposes. A subheading divides your content into a smaller, more organized section, making navigation easier for the readers. On the contrary, a subheadline is an extension of the H1 title, highlighting its unique angles.
Check out this guide on an article with subheadings to create a scannable and highly effective copy.
Elements of a Killer Subheadline [C.R.A.T.E.]
The following C.R.A.T.E. elements will help you create a catchy subheadline, amplifying the impact of the H1 title.
Converting
A converting subheadline entices the readers to continue reading and perhaps even make a purchase or download a provision. It directly addresses the reader’s interests, offering a benefit or a solution. Don’t just tell them what your content is about, tell them through the subheadline why they should care.
Relevant
Be sure to keep your subheadline relevant to the content it introduces. It should provide a sneak peek of the content, assuring readers know what to expect. Stay on point to keep it engaging and interesting. For example:
Headline: 7 Proven Meditation Techniques for Stress Reduction
Subheadline: Learn how these simple practices can enhance your well-being and bring balance to your daily life.
Appropriately-lengthed
A good subheadline must be descriptive and easily scannable. Sometimes longer works better than shorter; sometimes short is better. It depends on your headline and content. Focus on keeping the length balanced, providing enough context to maintain the reader’s attention.
Tactical
Incorporate strategic terms in the subheadline to emphasize important points. This can be a relevant keyword or phrase that aligns with your audience’s needs. Ensure to integrate it contextually. An informative or intriguing subheadline gives the reader a glimpse into the promising points the article offers.
Engaging
A subheadline should retain the reader’s curiosity sparked by the main headline. Make it compelling enough to keep readers engaged and invested in your content. You can consider the following angles to make your subheadline engaging.
- Ask a question.
- Add a surprising fact.
- Offer a solution.
- Make a bold statement.
Take a look at these attention grabbing headline examples to get inspiration for your upcoming articles.
How to Write Impactful Subheadlines
Source: Freepik
Once you win the reader’s attention via an 👀-popping headline, it’s time to work on the subheadline. To craft strong subheadlines, keep the following factors in mind.
Write in the language of your audience.
Understand who your readers are and what kind of language they use. Tailor your subheadlines to match their style and preferences. Prioritize clarity and relevance for boosting audience engagement.
Highlight your USP.
Identify your content’s unique selling proposition (USP) that differentiates it from your competitors. Once you figure it out, highlight this in your sub-headline. It’ll set you apart and draw readers in to explore that special factor, or better yet, X-factor😎!
Use power words.
Use energetic words that stir emotion and create urgency. Say, “incredible,” “limited-time,” or “exclusive”. These words catch the reader’s eye and entice them to read more, making your subheadline more impactful.
This practice is highly encouraged in sub-headings too!
Stay true to your brand.
Your subheadline should reflect your brand’s tone and personality. Consistency in your messaging reinforces brand identity and builds trust. Aligning subheadlines with your brand values guarantees a cohesive user experience.
Encourage action.
Craft promising subheadlines using action language that prompts your readers to dive into the content. You need to guide them about what’s the value in it for them. For example:
Headline: Boost Your Sales with 5 Simple Strategies
Subheadline: Try These Proven Tips Today for Quick Results!
The headline focuses on simple sales strategies, while the subheadline prompts immediate action with “proven, quick” tips.
5 Examples of Great Headline-Subheadline Pairs
Let’s discuss some great headline-subheadline pairs that work very well together.
1. Slack
Source: Slack
This Slack article’s headline and subheadline work together excellently. First, the headline intrigues the reader defining a problem-solution pair. The subheadline then explains the intent further. Thus, it gives the reader just enough of a glimpse into the content to compel them to keep reading.
2. Atlassian
Source: Atlassian
This Atlassian article has an interesting subheadline that is perfectly in sync with its headline. The headline boasts impactful words that introduce a link between alpha brain waves and a ‘flow state’ concept, sparking interest in neuroscience.
The subheadline then demystifies the headline. It offers a crystal-clear benefit (deep work) that the reader can achieve by following the article’s insightful advice. A specific number of ways also attract attention.
3. Apple
Source: Apple
The headline in this Apple article is straightforward. It tells readers about the new feature crisply. It is as clear as it should be.
Then comes the subheadline, perfectly complementing the heading above. It highlights the benefits of transcripts, the product in the spotlight. It clearly emphasizes how transcripts can enhance the podcast experience for a broader audience. That’s how it amplifies the message the headline delivered.
4. TreeHugger
Source: TreeHugger
This TreeHugger article’s headline addresses a major global concern. It attracts the reader by beginning with a ‘how’ question.
The subheadline offers a hopeful and actionable perspective. This explains why hope is important, highlighting its power for action and change. This combination engages the reader by first presenting a problem and then offering an empowering and optimistic solution.
5. The Verge
Source: The Verge
This article by The Verge has a provocative headline. It draws attention with a playful selection of words like ‘fandom menace’. These words indicate that these movies are a serious threat to the sci-fi fanbase.
The subheadline for this is then perfectly worded as well. It clarifies the criticism by mentioning that the movies pay homage to classic sci-fi but do so in an unoriginal or uninspired way.
Final Thoughts
We learned that a subheadline expands on the headline, providing complementary information to it. No matter how good your web copy is, ineffective subheadlines will adversely affect your marketing goals. So, make every word of the subheadline count to captivate and persuade.
Ensure to keep your sub-headline in sync with the headline. To get unlimited ideas for your headlines and subheadlines, try using our Free Blog Post Idea Generator.
I am a full-time online marketer, for over a decade now. Helped over 100,000+ people & generated well over $12M in online sales.