Headlines carry the load—make the news obvious, specific and worth a click. Apply 2025 journalist preferences to boost open rates and coverage.
What is the primary job of a press‑release headline in 2025?
Grab attention, signal the value, and compel journalists to read on.
Name the company and product and save the news for later.
Focus on SEO keywords only, even if it obscures the news.
Show off clever wordplay with minimal information.
Which length guideline aligns with current headline engagement data?
Over 200 characters is ideal for detail.
Length doesn’t matter at all in modern feeds.
3–5 words is mandatory for wires.
Aim for concise headlines; roughly 51–75 characters often perform well.
Which wording best increases pickup without resorting to hype?
Use jargon and acronyms to sound expert.
ALL CAPS for urgency.
Add superlatives like “revolutionary” in every headline.
Lead with the news and use strong, plain‑English verbs.
When should you put your company name in the headline?
Only include the stock ticker.
Never include a company name under any circumstances.
Always lead with the company name regardless of context.
Include it if it adds news value; otherwise prioritize the actual news.
What’s a reliable way to make a headline more credible and specific?
Hide the main metric in the last paragraph only.
Use emojis instead of figures.
Use concrete numbers or verifiable data points.
Replace facts with adjectives to sound exciting.
Which format best respects journalists’ time in crowded inboxes?
Write a riddle that only insiders understand.
Hide the actual news in paragraph four.
Front‑load the what/why in the headline; save details for the subhead.
Tease vaguely and force a click for the basics.
Which practice improves readability across wire, search and social previews?
Avoid ALL CAPS and keep punctuation simple.
Stuff in every keyword and trademark symbol.
Use multiple exclamation marks for emphasis!!!
Add emojis to draw attention on wires.
How should AI be used in 2025 headline workflows?
Ban AI entirely, even for ideation.
As a brainstorming aid—final wording should be reviewed and edited by humans.
Let AI fabricate quotes to make headlines pop.
Publish the first AI draft without review.
Which headline focuses on audience impact rather than features?
“Acme reveals revolutionary paradigm shift.”
“New platform cuts onboarding time for small teams by 40%.”
“Acme announces platform v8 with next‑gen modules.”
“The future is here (details inside).”
Before finalizing a headline, which workflow step is advised?
Skip review to save time.
Publish the first version to be first.
Draft multiple options and test with colleagues for clarity and impact.
Outsource the headline to legal only.
Starter
Focus on the essentials and review the checklist for this topic.
Solid
Strong grasp—tighten technique and apply advanced tips.
Expert!
Outstanding mastery—your execution sets the standard.
