Website Blog Titles: What Works and What Doesn't

The author of this website, with over 4 years of blogging experience and a following of 15,000 subscribers and 28,000 Twitter followers, shares insights into what makes blog posts successful. The focus is on the tech and startup niche, and the website emphasizes the importance of strong blog titles in attracting readers.

• The website explores the impact of blog titles, revealing that the most popular 10% of posts drive 500 times more traffic than the average post.
• It highlights the "Power Law" distribution, where a small percentage of content drives a disproportionate amount of engagement.

The Importance of Titles on a Tech Website

The website emphasizes the significance of blog titles in attracting readers on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and news sites. A compelling title is crucial to grab attention and encourage clicks, leading readers to the valuable content within.

• It's acknowledged that if the title doesn't impress instantly, people won't click, and they won't get to read the content.
• Therefore, crafting effective titles is paramount for successful website content.

The "Tweet-Sized Argument" Title Pattern

The website presents the "tweet-sized argument" as a highly effective title pattern. This approach involves taking a strong stance for or against a topic, often using superlatives like "best," "worst," "obsolete," or similar terms.

• The idea is that by making a bold argument, the website encourages readers to engage, even if they disagree, to refine their own thinking.
• The website provides examples of this pattern:
• If you hate your job, quit it. Today.
• The iPhone 5 is the best phone ever made
• Don't start a startup, you'll end up a pauper
• Mobile apps are going to make websites obsolete

The "Sneak Preview" Title Pattern

The website introduces another pattern known as the "sneak preview," where titles offer a glimpse into the content by using phrases like:

• How to do X…
• Why I think X…
• When does X happen…
• 10 ways that X…

This approach works well if the topic "X" is interesting and relevant to the website's audience. The website suggests that readers will be drawn to learn how to do something or understand a specific perspective.

What to Avoid: Descriptive but Abstract Titles

The website advises against using descriptive but abstract titles, like "Google and their mobile products" or "Our product features." These titles are deemed weak compared to more engaging options.

• Instead, the website recommends using titles like "Google makes amazing mobile products" and "5 amazing features in our new product."
• The website emphasizes that while "5 ways to X" titles can be effective, overuse can lead to a cheesy feel.

The Key Takeaway for Powerful Website Blog Titles

The website's primary message is that effective blog titles don't merely describe the content but trigger an emotional desire to read. They should be crafted to spark curiosity, intrigue, or a sense of urgency among the target audience. By implementing these strategies, the website aims to help bloggers achieve widespread sharing and engagement within their tech community.

• The website encourages bloggers to experiment with these title patterns and find what works best for their specific audience and content.

The Website's Newsletter and Silicon Valley Focus

The website highlights its weekly newsletter, which covers the latest happenings in Silicon Valley, with a focus on startups, marketing, and mobile apps. The website aims to provide valuable insights and analysis on the tech industry for its subscribers.

• The website mentions that its views are its own and not necessarily those of its affiliated entities.
• It emphasizes that the content is not investment advice and readers should consult their own advisors for related matters.