Power word – smart (especially effective as it is directly contrasted with its opposite: dumb)
Yep, smart observation – the contrast adds intrigue.
3 Ways To Say No To People Who Want To Pick Your Brain
=> “Learning how to say no” is quite a specific benefit. I love this headline.
How to Develop Killer Content
=> Yep, totally agree with your analysis here. It’s surprising how a blog can have a great headline like 5 Steal-Worthy Strategies From A Brand I Couldn’t Resist in one week, and then in another week post a bland headline, isn’t it?
I love the word “steal-worthy”. Really stands-out because it’s unusual (unlike “killer” which is overused).
Enchant readers. Woo customers. Win business.