You’ve got just one second to grab someone’s attention when they pull your postcard out of the mailbox.
One second. That’s it.
So how do you make sure your postcard doesn’t just get looked at—but actually gets read, remembered, and acted on?
It starts with the headline.
Whether you’re promoting a grand opening, a seasonal special, or a service that solves a pain point—your headline is everything. In this guide, we’ll break down how to write a postcard headline that stops the scroll (or in this case, the shuffle), plus real copy examples that follow the science of urgency, emotion, and clarity.
Let’s dive in.
Why Your Headline Matters
Think of your headline as a handshake. It’s the first impression. The first spark. The first second someone decides if they want to learn more—or toss your postcard in the recycling bin.
That’s why Taradel’s proven EDDM postcard formula always starts with one thing:
A bold, benefit-driven headline.
The Psychology Behind Headlines That Work
Effective headlines tap into three psychological triggers:
1. Urgency
We act when time is limited or when we fear missing out (FOMO).
Example:
“Limited-Time Offer: $99 A/C Tune-Up Before Summer Heat Hits”
Why it works: The phrase “limited-time” sets a deadline. The offer solves a clear seasonal problem. And there’s a financial incentive to act now.
2. Emotion
We buy based on feelings first, logic second.
Example:
“Give Your Home the Love It Deserves – Spring Cleaning Specials Inside”
Why it works: It personifies the home and appeals to pride, care, and comfort. It’s not just about cleaning—it’s about feeling good.
3. Clarity
No one acts on something they don’t understand. The clearer your headline, the better your results.
Example:
“We Power-Wash Driveways. You Relax.”
Why it works: It’s simple and direct. What’s the offer? Power washing. What’s the benefit? Less work for the customer. That’s clarity in action.
Real EDDM-Style Headline Examples You Can Swipe
Here are real-world headline examples modeled after top-performing EDDM campaigns—organized by industry.
Home Services
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“We Make Dirty Siding Look Brand New – 20% Off This Month Only”
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“You Call. We Climb. Gutter Cleaning Starts at $79”
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“Fix Now, Pay Later – Flexible Roof Repair Financing Available”
Restaurants & Food
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“Dinner’s On Us (Almost) – $5 Off Any Order Over $25”
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“New in Town? Come Taste What Everyone’s Talking About”
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“Free Delivery All Month – Because You Deserve a Night Off”
Real Estate
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“Just Sold in Your Neighborhood – Want to Know What Yours Is Worth?”
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“Buy Now, Move in by Spring – Inventory Is Moving Fast”
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“Thinking of Selling? Let’s Talk Before Rates Rise Again”
Cleaning & Local Services
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“From Grimy to Gorgeous – Carpet Cleaning $99 Per Room”
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“Need a Cleaner House Without Lifting a Finger?”
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“We Clean Homes. You Win Weekends Back”
Headline Writing Quick Tips
Want to DIY your next headline? Here’s a cheat sheet:
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Use numbers or specific offers
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Start with an action word
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Ask a question your customer is already thinking
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Make the benefit obvious
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Keep it under 12 words
And always test different variations. Your first idea might be good—your second could be great.
Ready to Launch a Headline That Delivers?
When you start your EDDM campaign with Taradel, we make it easy to:
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Choose the right postcard size
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Target the best neighborhoods
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Write magnetic headlines (even if you’re not a copywriter)
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Get your postcard in mailboxes fast
So go ahead—dream big.
And let us help you write the headline that gets you there.
Boom! Your next campaign starts now. Let’s make that headline sing.
