Throwback Thursday!

Good question from a reader...

Flossie, who says she is an “average reader,” asked me an interesting question:

Bob, how do you get people to read your “5 a.m. Stories?” I mean, they’re not very good, no offense.

None taken, Flossie. But if you don’t like my stuff, why do you read it?

Because, you know, sometimes an enticing headline grabs me and I just have to click on it.

Exactly! It’s the headlines! Here is a secret: some journalists worry way too much about the quality of their actual stories, when what they really need is just a great headline. Today is Throwback Thursday. Let me just float a few headlines that were very successful the first time I ran these stories, so I’m using them again for the reruns.

Welcome to the Vomitorium, Mr. President

Care for a Drink? Name Your Poison...

Shrimp Fried Rice and Edelweiss

Wow! You’re right. I did click on each one of those the first time, but I just can’t help clicking again, they’re just so inviting! I want more! All my friends need to subscribe!

I figured as much, Flossie. A good headline writer is sort of like the Old Dope Peddler, just getting future customers to give it a try. Enjoy…