Do you know what clickbait is? Probably so, even if I don’t recognize the term. Imagine you’re browsing online and came across the headline “I thought it didn’t work for hair growth, but I tested it and everything changed.” Surely you will be curious to know what “this” in the title is talking about. And you will end up clicking the link to learn more about it. This is clickbait. Yes, you took the bait!
The author makes a headline that generates the curiosity of the viewer so that the person clicks and learns more. But is clickbait the good guy or the digital marketing villain? This is what we will know throughout this article. Read on to find out more.
What is clickbait?
Clickbait is a tactic used to draw the user’s attention to a particular post, article or video, for example. The clickbait can be a title, a flashy image, a thumbnail and so on. It is something that arouses the curiosity of the public. But not everyone knows how to use it. So instead of helping, it can get in the way.
There is no point in posting a hyped, exaggerated and even funny post if the content itself is fake, misleading or unrelated. In addition to deceiving your audience – which will probably go away to never return – you will also be penalized by Googlebots for misleading content.
Don’t be fooled (and don’t do this!)
Now that you know what clickbait is, let’s talk a little bit about the techniques used by clickbait addicts. It’s important to know what the baits look like – and also to know how not to be fooled. In general, this type of content has:
- Frequent and constant use of exclamation marks;
- Expressions such as “you will not believe”;
- Creating a sense of urgency in the title;
- Use of images that make the person curious but not saying much.
- Promises that seem to be “too good to be true”.
So content is still important?
Clickbait practice, however, is not always negative. When you know how to use it correctly, it’s a great strategy to increase the flow to your website and reach more leads.
The secret is always to give the correct information. The headline may even be flashy and encourage click, but it should not be sensationalist or liar. That is: look for creative, light and fun ways that draw the reader’s attention to the message you want to send.
You need to attract customers that will be loyal. And that’s why content remains critical. It is the content that will make the customer come to your site and stay there. This costumer will read, get interested and, maybe, moving towards the final stages of sale.
Therefore, as attractive as it may be, be careful when investing in clickbaits. It is recommended that you be authentic and creative. Produce materials that drive your page engagement and never stop interacting with your audience.
I hope you understand what clickbait is, how to use it correctly, and – very important – what not to do. Now it’s up to you! Doing everything correctly will surely increase your audience.