15 Listicle Examples That Drive Engagement (And How To Write Your Own)

Key Takeaways:

• Proven Formats for Any Niche: You’ll learn 15 real-world listicle formats that drive engagement across niches like SaaS, eCommerce, lifestyle, and marketing.
• Step-by-Step Writing Framework: You'll understand how to write a listicle step by step, from headline to CTA, and what makes the format so effective.
• Optimization with FERMÀT: The article explores how tools like FERMÀT help optimize content for engagement and sales—, especially on Shopify and landing pages.

At FERMÀT, we’ve helped leading consumer brands transform passive content into dynamic, high-performing commerce experiences—right on their own sites. From building immersive, shoppable landing pages to deploying embedded commerce strategies that reduce acquisition costs and increase conversion, we know what it takes to not just reach audiences—but activate them. When it comes to blending editorial storytelling with performance-driven strategy, we don’t just follow trends—we define them.

In today’s content-saturated world, brands and creators alike are searching for formats that stand out, deliver value quickly, and keep readers engaged. Enter the listicle—a deceptively simple content structure that’s become one of the most effective formats across digital platforms. But not all listicles are created equal. The best ones are built with intent, optimized for action, and designed to do more than just entertain—they educate, persuade, and convert.

In this piece, we’ll explore 15 listicle examples that consistently drive engagement—and show you exactly how to craft your own. We’ll also share how FERMÀT can turn your content into a high-converting commerce engine.

What Is A Listicle?

A listicle is a type of article structured in the form of a list. The word itself is a blend of “list” and “article.” Each item in the list typically includes a short explanation, example, or commentary that supports the overall topic of the piece.

Listicles are popular in digital media because they’re:

• Easy to Scan: People can quickly skim and find value.
• Visually Organized: Clear numbering or bullet points break the content into digestible chunks.
• Efficient to Read and Share: Their structure makes them ideal for readers with limited time.

Whether you're browsing “10 Tips for Better Sleep” or “7 Ways to Improve Your Marketing Strategy,” you've probably already read dozens of listicles without even realizing it.

This format works well across industries—from entertainment and lifestyle to business, tech, and eCommerce.

Why Listicles Drive Engagement

Listicles are more than just trendy content—they're strategically powerful for keeping readers engaged. Here's why:

They Match How People Read Online

Most online users don’t read every word—they scan. Listicles cater to this behavior by breaking information into concise, numbered points that are easy to follow.

They Set Clear Expectations

When someone clicks on “7 Marketing Tools You Need Today,” they know exactly what to expect—seven tools, no fluff. This clarity increases trust and reduces bounce rates.

They Encourage Click-Throughs And Shares

With compelling headlines and bite-sized content, listicles are highly shareable on social media and often outperform traditional blog formats in click-through rates.

They Work For Any Topic Or Industry

Whether it’s entertainment (“Top 10 Netflix Shows”), health (“5 Superfoods You Should Eat”), or SaaS (“10 Landing Page Optimization Tools”), the format is endlessly adaptable.

They’re Great For SEO

Listicles often target long-tail keywords and answer common queries, increasing visibility in search engine results. Structured formatting also improves featured snippet potential.

15 Listicle Examples That Perform Well

Below are 15 proven listicle formats that consistently attract clicks, shares, and engagement across industries:

1. “10 Tips for Better Sleep Tonight”

A practical, easy-to-read guide offering immediate relief for readers struggling with sleep. This type of content performs well for wellness, lifestyle, and health brands seeking to deliver actionable advice.

2. “7 Tools Every Remote Worker Needs”

Perfect for productivity and SaaS-focused brands, this listicle format highlights must-have tools to improve workflow, communication, and organization for remote professionals.

3. “15 Easy Recipes You Can Make in Under 30 Minutes”

Food and lifestyle blogs thrive on quick, approachable content like this. It solves the daily dinner dilemma while emphasizing convenience and flavor.

4. “5 Common Mistakes Killing Your Shopify Landing Page”

Great for eCommerce marketers, this blend of urgency and education helps readers avoid costly errors while encouraging them to improve conversion strategy.

5. “20 Inspiring Quotes to Start Your Day Right”

Timeless and highly shareable, quote-based content offers quick motivation and emotional resonance—ideal for social media and newsletter features.

6. “8 Surprising Facts About Coffee You Didn’t Know”

Curiosity-driven content like this sparks engagement, increases scroll depth, and encourages shares among niche audiences like coffee enthusiasts or foodies.

7. “12 Blog Post Ideas for When You’re Out of Ideas”

A lifesaver for content creators, this meta-style post helps break creative blocks and inspires fresh publishing momentum with minimal effort.

8. “6 Signs Your Business Needs a Website Redesign”

A strategic listicle that highlights pain points and nudges readers toward considering design upgrades—especially effective for web agencies and freelancers.

9. “9 Ways to Boost Your Instagram Engagement”

Always relevant, social media content like this gives marketers and entrepreneurs clear tactics to stay competitive in an evolving digital space.

10. “11 Must-Have Features in Landing Page Optimization Tools”

This list helps readers compare tools and understand key features while positioning your product as a top-tier solution in the optimization landscape.

11. “13 Ways to Save Money Without Changing Your Lifestyle”

A high-value post that keeps readers hooked with practical, low-effort ways to improve their finances—ideal for personal finance and lifestyle blogs.

12. “4 Trends That Will Define Marketing in 2025”

Insightful and forward-thinking, this type of content positions your brand as an authority and draws interest from professionals eager to stay ahead.

13. “14 Best Shopify Landing Page Examples (And Why They Work)”

Combining visual inspiration with smart analysis, this post appeals to designers, marketers, and eCommerce owners seeking creative direction.

14. “6 Ways to Start Improving Landing Page Performance Today”

Actionable and measurable, this format resonates with performance-driven audiences by offering quick wins they can implement immediately.

15. “10 Listicle Ideas You Can Write in Under an Hour”

Meta-content like this is a hit among content marketers and bloggers, offering rapid inspiration and helping keep editorial calendars on track.

How To Write A High-Impact Listicle

Writing a listicle that people actually read and share takes more than just slapping numbers on a page. Here’s how to do it right:

Choose A Clear, Specific Topic

Start with a topic that’s focused and relevant to your audience’s needs. A narrow topic like “5 Time-Saving Tools for Freelancers” is more effective than a vague one like “Productivity Tips.” The clearer your focus, the more likely your readers are to stay engaged.

Craft A Click-Worthy Headline

Use numbers, adjectives, and benefit-driven language to spark curiosity. Headlines like “7 Email Tricks That Triple Open Rates” set expectations and entice clicks. Make sure your title reflects real value.

Use Logical, Easy-to-Scan Structure

Break your content into numbered sections, each with a clear point and short explanation. Readers should be able to skim and still extract key insights. Format matters—use bolding, spacing, and consistent design for readability.

Keep It Consistent

Each item in your list should follow the same pattern for clarity and flow. If some points are long and others are just one sentence, it throws off the rhythm. Maintain tone, length, and formatting throughout.

End With A Strong CTA Or Summary

Don’t just end your list—guide your reader to the next step. Whether it’s a product trial, a related blog post, or a social share, a strong call-to-action adds purpose. Reinforce the value they just received.

Listicle Ideas You Can Try Today

If you're ready to create your own listicle but not sure where to start, here are some simple and effective ideas to spark inspiration:

1. “10 Mistakes [Your Audience] Should Avoid”

This format works incredibly well because it taps into fear of failure while offering practical solutions. Readers appreciate the opportunity to sidestep common pitfalls without having to learn the hard way. Whether you're writing for small business owners, designers, marketers, or fitness enthusiasts, this type of listicle positions you as a helpful guide with real-world expertise.

2. “7 Best Tools for [A Specific Goal]”

Ideal for SaaS companies, creators, or productivity-focused brands, this listicle gives readers a curated set of resources to help them accomplish something faster or better. It’s also a subtle way to spotlight your own product or affiliate links without coming across as overly promotional, so long as you keep the tone informative and honest.

3. “15 [Industry] Trends You Need to Know”

Trend-based listicles are a powerful way to demonstrate thought leadership. By showcasing upcoming changes, innovations, or shifts in your space, you prove that your brand is forward-thinking and informed. These posts are especially popular at the start or end of the year and often earn high engagement and shareability among professionals who want to stay ahead of the curve.

4. “5 Things I Wish I Knew Before [Doing Something]”

This format allows you to be relatable and vulnerable while still delivering useful insights. It’s particularly effective in founder stories, career advice blogs, or influencer content because it builds emotional connection and trust. Sharing lessons learned gives your readers a chance to grow through your experiences and makes your content feel more authentic and human.

5. “8 Quick Wins for [A Desired Outcome]”

Everyone loves instant gratification, and this format delivers just that. Whether it's marketing, wellness, organization, or finance, “quick win” listicles offer bite-sized strategies that don’t require a massive time or financial investment. They’re perfect for skimmers, highly shareable on social media, and often lead to high engagement because of their promise of immediate results.

How FERMÀT Helps You Optimize Content For Engagement

Creating a listicle is only half the job—getting it to convert and engage is where the magic happens. That’s where FERMÀT comes in. Their platform helps brands turn static content into dynamic, shoppable experiences that enhance engagement and boost performance.

FERMÀT’s tools are especially useful when you're optimizing a Shopify landing page built around listicle content. For example, if your list highlights “Top 5 Skincare Products,” you can directly embed shopping functionality into each item—removing friction from the buyer’s journey.

They also offer insights and recommendations focused on improving landing page performance, helping marketers see what drives clicks, scrolls, and conversions. With FERMÀT, you're not just publishing content—you’re creating an experience that aligns with how people shop and engage online.

Plus, their suite of landing page optimization tools makes it easy to test variations and track performance, so you can continually refine your listicles for maximum impact.

Final Thoughts

Listicles are more than just trendy blog formats—they're powerful tools for capturing attention, delivering value, and driving action. Whether you're listing tools, tips, or trends, the structure makes your content easy to read, engaging, and shareable.

By combining thoughtful strategy with the right tools—like those from FERMÀT—you can transform your listicles into high-converting content that educates and sells. Start with a clear idea, follow best practices, and optimize continuously. Your next viral or revenue-generating listicle might be just a headline away.

Read also:

• 10 Conversion Rate Optimization Best Practices You Should Be Using in 2025
• 25 Call to Action Examples That Actually Get Clicks
• Mastering Customer Journey Management: From First Click to Loyal Advocate

Frequently Asked Questions About Listicles

What makes a listicle different from a regular blog post?

A listicle organizes content into a numbered or bullet-point format, which improves readability and makes key points easier to digest. In contrast, regular blog posts are often written in paragraphs without this structured approach.

Can listicles be used in B2B marketing?

Absolutely. B2B companies can use listicles to share tools, industry trends, case study highlights, or productivity tips in a format that’s clear and compelling for decision-makers.

How long should a listicle be for SEO purposes?

There’s no perfect length, but aim for at least 1,000–1,500 words to satisfy search engine algorithms while delivering real value. Include internal links, keywords, and multimedia to enhance depth and engagement.

Should I include outbound links in my listicles?

Yes—linking to high-authority sources builds credibility and may improve SEO. Just make sure those links are relevant and don’t distract from your primary CTA.

Is it okay to reuse listicle formats across multiple blog posts?

Definitely. You can repurpose popular formats like “X Tools,” “X Mistakes,” or “X Trends” for different topics as long as the content itself remains original and targeted.

Do listicles perform well in email marketing campaigns?

Yes, listicles work great in emails because their structure makes them easy to skim. Tease the list in the subject line or preview text to increase open and click-through rates.

How often should I publish listicles on my blog?

There’s no set rule, but 1–2 per month can be a good starting point. Monitor engagement and traffic to see what frequency works best for your audience.

Can I embed videos or images in my listicles?

Definitely. Multimedia elements like screenshots, gifs, and explainer videos can add context, break up text, and increase time on page—great for SEO and UX.

Are numbered listicles better than bullet-point listicles?

Numbered lists usually perform better because they provide a clear sequence and help readers track progress. However, bullets may work better for shorter, non-sequential points.

What are the risks of writing listicles just for clicks?

If your content doesn’t deliver value beyond the headline, readers may bounce quickly and damage your site’s reputation. Always prioritize usefulness and quality over clickbait.

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