7 tips to improve your hooks

Ever been fishing?

Yeah, me neither actually…

But here’s the one thing I do know about fishing:

You don’t just toss in any hook and hope for the best.

You’ve got to be strategic about it.

Place it just right to reel in the big ones.

And honestly, writing on LinkedIn isn’t much different.

Without a solid hook at the start of your post, you might as well be sitting by an empty lake, waiting for a bite that never comes.

So how do you land the attention of your readers?

Let's break it down, fisherman style:

1. Keep it short

When it comes to hooks, less is more.

Your opening line should be sharp, snappy, and straight to the point.

Think of it like bait: A quick taste that leaves them wanting more.

Example:

“The best advice you’ll read today:”

That’s it. Curiosity? Hooked.

2. Ask direct questions

Questions are great conversation starters.

And when you ask them directly, readers feel like you’re talking straight to them.

You’re not just posting into the void.

You’re engaging.

Example:

“Want to make money online?”

Who doesn’t?

That’s a hook that gets a head nod and a “tell me more.”

3. Explain the process

Everyone loves a guide, especially when it breaks down how to do something they care about.

Telling your audience exactly how to achieve a goal not only keeps them reading, but it also positions you as an expert they can trust.

Example:

“How to design your LinkedIn carousels”

Clear, actionable, and something they can use right away.

4. Mention specific results

People love proof.

When you can show real results, it builds credibility and makes readers think, “If they can do it, so can I.”

Example:

“I get 200+ likes on every post”

You’re not just saying your strategy works, you’re showing it with hard numbers.

5. Include relevant keywords

Think like your audience: what are they searching for?

Use those keywords to grab their attention and show them right away that you’re offering what they need.

Example:

“Become a master storyteller in 7 steps”

If someone is searching for storytelling tips, this headline tells them they’ve found exactly what they need.

6. Be slightly controversial

A little controversy can go a long way.

When you say something unexpected or challenge conventional wisdom, you spark curiosity.

Readers will want to see why you’re taking this stance.

Example:

“Don’t create a personal brand”

Wait, what?

That’s the opposite of what most people say, and now they’re intrigued to hear why.

7. Use specific numbers

Numbers lend authority to your content and make it more credible.

Whether it’s a statistic or a step-by-step guide, numbers make your post feel concrete and reliable.

Example:

“90% on LinkedIn struggle with content”

That’s a stat that will have people saying, “Wow, I didn’t know that. How can I be in the 10% that gets it right?”

Cast your line, land the attention

So, here’s the takeaway:

Writing a killer post is like fishing (at least that’s what I heard).

You need a well-placed hook at the start, and then you’ve got to keep reeling them in with the right bait: One-liners, clear steps, and solid results.

The stronger your hook, the bigger the catch.

Now go hook some attention and watch your posts take off.

Your readers are waiting!

Cheers,
Dan