It is almost a requirement nowadays that businesses should have a website. A website is usually the first impression someone will have of your brand. However, having a website alone isn’t enough to reach and convert new customers. It is also important that your website is well-designed, or you risk losing valuable leads.
Web design has an impact on the website’s ability to rank on search engines for keywords related to your products and services. It can also influence whether a user stays on your site once they find it. Most importantly, web design will ultimately impact how many leads and prospects you’re able to convert into customers.
According to a study conducted in the US, here are key design features you need to include in your website this 2021.
1. According to 62% of the sample, including contact information on your website is critical.
This sounds simple but a lot of companies miss this. According to the respondents, they rated “Contact Us Information” as the most important element you can include on your company’s website. You need to include your phone number, email address, or other contact information for people to reach you. It should be in an easy-to-find location, like the header of the page. Consider adding a clickable “Email us!” CTA that links to your contact form so visitors don’t need to go on a scavenger hunt to find out how to get in touch with you.
2. 19% believe a blog is most important.
A blog is one of the most effective opportunities you have to create and distribute high-quality content related to your products or services. According to the survey, 19% believed it is actually the most important element on a business’ website. You can use your blog to help you reach new audiences, increase brand awareness, and convert prospects through educational, valuable content.
3. An About Us page is a vital element and helps the brand share its story.
Sharing your story and highlighting your core values is critical for your brand’s long-term success. A recent survey reveals that 85% of consumers say they’ll only consider a brand if they trust the brand. This means that people care about who they do business with, so you need to reflect on who you are and why your work matters on your website. Make it as brief as possible. Customers don’t have the time to read a research paper.
4. Include social media icons to drive traffic to your social pages.
It is already a given that social media icons are important, but it is surprising to see this element overshadows live chat, customer case studies, and blog as the most important element of a company’s website. It is important to link out your social media pages so prospects and customers can follow you. However, you need to make sure you don’t overdo it. When in doubt, go for simplicity over scale. Don't include platforms you don’t update regularly. You’re building trust, and that means regularly update and produce relevant content and answering questions from customers and leads.