You’ve got a fresh Home page. You’ve written all your Services pages. You’ve created a new downloadable resource and the landing page to go with it. And your Contact page has a form ready for customers to fill. Ahh, sweet accomplishment. 💥
But, wait. Hold up! Before you take that well-deserved coffee break, there are a few content elements you might want to be sure you aren’t missing. To publish the best version of your website possible, read on.
7 Types of Content Elements to Add to Your Website ASAP
It’s easy to hear “website content” and immediately think of blog posts and big blocks of text. While that is content, there are many other types.
Some website copy delivers a message while other copy helps improve the customer experience. Some content tells a story while other content directs visitors to take an action.
The truth is, nothing happens on your website without some form of copy.
Let’s dive into some of the most commonly overlooked content elements you should create and publish ASAP.
1. 404 Error Page
A 404 error page typically pops up on your website if a visitor mistypes a URL or tries to visit a page you’ve deleted or moved. Unfortunately, this can cause friction that may inspire your visitor to click the big X.
A custom 404 page complete with brand-focused copy can help soften the blow and redirect visitors toward other parts of your website.
Here at CCS, we let our inner Disney nerd spill out onto the page a bit. And that’s okay! Your 404 page is a great place to showcase your personality.
Pro Tip
Remember to add a call to action to this page. That way, even if they can’t find what they’re looking for, they’ll be able to find you.
2. Website Footer
The website footer (found at the bottom of every website page) is often the place where all random links businesses don’t want in their main navigation live. While that’s a decent place for them, your footer has the potential to be so much more.
For example, placing a quick mission statement there can communicate your brand even in the smallest of places. You can also add a CTA to sign-up for your newsletter or visit your social channels.
3. Testimonials
There is nothing more powerful than a customer review. Many customers read them before making purchasing decisions. Use their power to boost your website conversions by showcasing them on your website.
Try adding a testimonial or two to your Home page or your Services page. You can also create a Testimonials or Reviews page to showcase them all.
Pro Tip
Want to take your testimonials to the next level? Add a photo of the individual who left you the review to add another visual cue.
4. Terms of Use
Cari’s lawyer training has rubbed off on us and it’s coming out right now in all its glory…and for good reason. The Terms of Use (TOU) page on your website is critical to protecting you and your visitors.
The TOU explains the rights and responsibilities of anyone who uses your website. It also protects you from being responsible for any damages that may occur to a visitor while they use your website.
There are many elements involved in a TOU page, including limitations of liability, copyrights and change clauses. We recommend reaching out to an attorney who can help you create a TOU that best serves your business.
5. Call-Out CTAs
Call-to-actions (CTAs) can be created in many ways. For example, there are in-text CTAs that use links (like this: Call CCS for awesome copy! See what we did there? 😉). Another way to add CTAs to your website is by creating call-outs. These are a great way to grab your visitors’ attention and give them the next step.
Inside our hero image on our Home page, we added a bright orange call-out button as a CTA. You can do the same! Or, try adding CTA call-outs throughout your other website pages such as on your Services page or blog posts.
6. Contact Information
Even the most basic information missing from your website can give your visitors the wrong impression. Even in the world of social media and email, some customers will prefer to call you or visit your brick-and-mortar location (if you have one).
Make sure to add your contact information throughout your website, especially on your Contact page. Include your phone number, address and any other contact info visitors can use to reach you.
7. Image Alt Text
Images are visual tools that add interest and inspiration to your website. Yet, it’s important to keep accessibility top of mind for those visitors with vision difficulties. Each image on your website should have alt text that describes the image so screen readers can effectively translate the image into words.
Need help? The experts over at HubSpot have written a great guide all about alt text. Check it out here.
Overwhelmed by Your Website? We Can Help!
Creating, writing and maintaining a website can quickly become overwhelming. Not only do you need to create the website itself, but you’ll then need to develop fresh content often to keep visitors coming back.
If you’re ready to throw your keyboard in frustration, we’re here to help! To learn more about your website content, holler at the Word Nerds today.
