Most people do not know how to write great titles. To write a great title, it boils down to "What's in it for you (the reader)?"
In this post, I will be using email subjects as examples. However, the same techniques can be used on titles on any other medium.
Here are some of the techniques that I employ:
People like to read about themselves.
Personalize your email subjects ne trick that I employ is to include the subject's name in the subject. A subject that says: "Steven, I love you" will pique my curiosity just because it is addressed to me.
If your audience goes beyond a single person, then keep it personalized and niche: "Help, Singaporean CEOs like you inspired us."
A little compliment goes a long way.
"Action required: You are shortlisted for top local SME" would get any company opening the email because who does not like winning an award?
Likewise, "My friend highly recommended me your printing services, can you help me?" will work if you are seeking to reach out to the CEO of a printing shop.
People like to see immediate gratification
If you are selling or promoting anything, do not tell me the features. Jump straight into the immediate benefit that your audience will receive.
For example, if I am selling a lead-generation software, I will say: "We have 5 leads for your taxation services for this week, are you interested?"