Homepage Must-Haves: Design Tips to Keep Visitors Engaged On Your Site
When it comes to the design of your website the homepage is the most important page. The average person spends a few moments on a website - if their attention isn't grabbed right away they're more likely to move on to another site or search.
As a small business owner you can't afford to lose a potential client. Google algorithms are constantly changing but one thing has remained consistent - Google is placing higher value on user experience. The user experience starts the moment someone lands on your homepage. The more times a user clicks on another page within your site, the more Google views your site as a positive user experience and ranks it higher.
So what does any of this have to do with the design of your homepage? EVERYTHING!
To ensure that visitors to your site are getting the best experience possible make sure to include the following design elements on your homepage:
Clean Logo: You want your logo to display as crisp as possible, I prefer using a PNG file that way whatever background color is used on the page the logo will show up. Don't make your logo too large - you definitely want it to be seen but not overwhelming to the eye. Make sure it links to the homepage.
Minimal Menu: No more than 6 tabs on your main menu - more than that seems too overwhelming. If you have more than 6 categories you can use a sub-menu {drop-downs} just make sure you categorize them in a way that makes sense.
Social Media Icons: You want this easily found - make sure it's on the header and footer and that they open in a new tab. Display the icons/links for social media sites you are actively on. If you have a twitter account but haven't tweeted in over 6 months don't include it. If you start tweeting again you can always add the icon/link back.
Clear Call-To-Actions: Beware of too much copy. Make sure you deliver your message in a clear and concise way, offer links to learn more that go to the full page. Some of us offer many services and we want to list every single thing we do. Concentrate on 2-3 main call-to-actions above the fold.
White Space: White space is a good thing the more clutter a user experiences the less likely they are to click around and find out more about you and your services.
Branded Imagery: Use a main image on your homepage that lines up with your brand. If you don't have professional photos consider purchasing stock images. You want any image on your site to represent you and evoke a feeling of what it is like to work with you. What to learn more about branded photography?
Mobile Design: A mobile friendly website is a must-have in order to rank higher. Google will automatically drop you down on a search if your site isn't mobile friendly. Edit down your mobile site - remove any pop-ups or design elements that aren't necessary. The key is simplicity and your mobile design should be as clean/simple as possible.
If you're interested in learning more about our website design services please click here >>
