The layout and design of your website is one of the most important factors for the success of a website. According to a study done by WebFX, ‘94% of first impressions relate to your site’s web design’. With this statistic in mind, we can see the importance of your website creating a good impression for viewers. You never get a second chance to make a good first impression, so, if you want to make a positive and lasting impression, keep reading to learn our eight web design tips that your business needs!

1. Webpage loading time:

Potential customers don’t want to be waiting excessively long for your website to load, so, if you have a slow loading webpage, visitors will be more inclined to click off the website. Another thing to be mindful of is that search engines use your web page loading speed as a factor for their rankings. Thus, it’s important to have an efficient website that loads in under five seconds to maximize your engagement.

2. Importance of scrolling:

Research shows us that users prefer scrolling over clicking. In order to improve your website design, you should opt for a longer page to host your information, rather than many smaller pages that you have to click through. 

3. Optimize the fold:

A study conducted by Nielsen Norman Group concluded that ‘users do scroll, but only if what’s above the fold is promising enough. What is visible on the page without requiring any action is what encourages us to scroll’. Bearing this in mind, you should have a descriptive and concise headline that clearly states your call to action. Here, visitors will know exactly what to expect and will be more inclined to scroll through the article. 

4. Less is more:

With regards to website design, people love familiarity and are adverse to complexity. Stick to a standard and simple layout. This way, visitors will not be overwhelmed by too much information or visuals on your website.

5. Use visual prompts:

In order to optimize your advertisements, you can utilize the concept of eye tracking. When people view advertisements, they are more likely to look where the subject of the advertisement is looking.

With this in mind, you can direct attention to where you want, e.g. toward the name of your brand.

6. Say no to stock photos: 

Naturally, human connection is an integral part of human nature. In terms of businesses, viewers of your website can sense when you are using average stock photos as opposed to authentic photos. Viewers will have a better perception of your business if you make sure that your website has real-life photos of your business, including your staff or offices etc.

7. Leverage social influence:

Similarly, people will have a better perception of your business if they can see that others had a positive experience with your business. You can show this by posting reviews of your business, products or services. 

8. Utilize lists:

When stating information, lists are a great way to make your information easier to read and access. They are visually simple  and very easy to comprehend. Your most important topic of information should be placed at the top of the list as this is the area that makes the biggest impact with viewers.

Website design can be a complex and broad area with infinite possibilities. However, with these eight web design tips in mind, your business is well on the way to effectively designing your website and maximizing your engagement.