With over 4.8 billion internet users and over 89,000 Google searches per second, the internet has become consumers’ go-to source for information, shopping, and relationships. Does your nonprofit or business have a solid web presence? If not, you are going to get lost in the crowd.
In my last post, we discussed the importance of driving visitors to one of the two communication channels you control — your email list. Your website is the second essential asset that serves as the foundation for your customer communication.
A well-designed website drives conversions by moving clients from awareness to consideration and connection. With accurate information and easy accessibility to your services in an environment that is free from unnecessary noise, ads, and distractions (unless you allow them), clients can engage and connect with your services.
Before launching a website, you should carefully consider your target audience and provide content that meets its need. How are you answering your clients’ questions, solving their problems, and providing a clear call to action?
Utilizing the following steps will help establish your web presence, increase conversions, and maximize the return on your web design investment.
Grab Attention “Above the Fold”
“Above the Fold” refers to the first thing a visitor sees before they start scrolling down your web page. Research shows that you have 5-8 seconds to capture your user’s attention before they decide if they want to keep scrolling or close the browser window.
So in these 5 seconds, it is important to show visitors how you can provide a solution to their felt need. Images, a clearly defined hook, and a clear call-to-action help keep your visitor scrolling.
Simplify Navigation
Keep it simple. Users should be able to find the information they need quickly and easily. Navigation bars that are cluttered with too many options create confusion and frustrate users. Carefully select the most important links and move less important ones to the footer.
Create a Clear Call to Action
What do you want visitors to do when they come to your website? Call you? Subscribe? Buy? Each page on your site should have a clear purpose and a clear call-to-action that users can easily find. Too many calls to action can confuse visitors, so choose carefully!
Minimize Text and Maximize Photos
Can I say it again? Keep it simple. Your website design should clearly reflect your message, but not overwhelm your visitors with too much information. A good rule of thumb is to edit, edit, and edit again until you are left with the most important information.
Blog posts should consist of short paragraphs that can easily be read on a mobile device. Long-form content has its place in educational or training settings, but general web pages should focus on minimal text. A picture is worth a thousand words, so let images speak for you and carefully select your words.
Ensure Mobile Compatibility
Mobile website traffic has increased 222% over the last seven years. With over 50% of users viewing websites on mobile devices, it is imperative that your site is mobile-friendly. A responsive design improves the user’s experience by reducing the need to pan and zoom on mobile devices. Avoid user frustration and make sure you test your website in mobile view!
If you are looking to launch a website or refresh your current look, we would be happy to help you! Contact our team today to set up a free consultation for your business or nonprofit.
