5 features that every homepage should have

Websites are now the first port of call for consumers and are the face of a business. This means it’s more important than ever for companies to create engaging homepages that simultaneously provide essential information while encouraging users to explore further. On a homepage, design, layout and content have to work in conjunction so we’ve put together a helpful checklist to help you improve conversion and increase session times.

Clear proposition When visitors to your website land on your homepage, it’s important that they are immediately made aware of what your business does and how your brand can help them. This isn’t to be confused with an ‘about us’ page which should be used to provide more detailed insight into your brand’s history. The proposition should be sleek and simple to understand, giving consumers no doubt about who you are. Sleek navigation bar The page listing on your website doesn’t necessarily have to be in a classic bar format and there are a growing number of websites which have experimented with innovative to layouts. However, legibility and simplicity are key terms you should always consider. The navigation system on your homepage should be intuitive and should make it easier for users to find their way around your website. Essential info links The essential information we are referring to is things like company address, contact details, shipping info and legal info. These things are usually placed in small font at the bottom of a homepage but are equally as important and provide browsers with quick access to important information. Video and animation Market research has shown that visual content such as videos and animation is much more effective at engaging with consumers and decreasing bounce rates. Many websites often include some form of introduction video or custom animation to outline the general purpose of their brand and grab the attention of consumers. Always ensure that videos are of high quality and are kept concise so they are easy to digest. Social media icons If your company has accounts on any form of social media- which it should in the current digital market- it’s important that you have available links to them on your homepage. This will provide consumers with a way of sharing their experience and will help to increase brand awareness through multiple digital channels. There are thousands of icons and social media buttons available to match different brand styles.