Website Credibility Checklist - How to Make it Look More Reliable
Do you think your website design influences the users' impression? Studies show that it takes them less than a second to form an opinion about a web page, and if they find it reliable, they’ll consider browsing it. But if they have doubts, off they go. The scrutiny doesn’t end with the way your homepage is designed. As they browse through the website, they continue to judge various aspects, from the overall appearance to the product description and contact section. If at any time, they find the content unattractive or their security endangered, 40% of them will exit the page. The appearance of the website can lose you a lot of traffic. And while many articles can tell you how to enhance the aesthetics of the site, few provide guidance on how to make it look trustworthy. If your visitors feel your website is a scam, you’d find it impossible to turn them into customers.
This article covers some tips on how to make a website look more reliable, so it looks like a safe destination for your clients.
Choose a reputable domain
The first thing your visitors observe when they get to your website is the domain name (or as many of you know it the web address). To attract their attention, make it memorable.
How can you do it?
Your domain should include the main keyword. For example, if you provide PR services, sydneyprmaster.com sounds like the right choice because it makes clear to users what the page is about.
Pick a high-quality domain extension. Even if the Internet allows you to be playful with the domain extensions, it’s best to stick with the traditional .com .uk (or specific to your country).
Check if your brand name is a copycat. You may think that you’ve been creative when you chose the name of the business, but it looks like someone else already trademarked it. So, think of something else if you don’t want to face a sue and get your web page down. For clients, a website with a copied name sounds anything else but reliable.
Select the right content management system
A content management system is one of the tools used to build a website and manage content. Top-notch ones provide advanced protection, support fast processing, and oversee the program code.
When building a website, pick a robust content management system because vulnerabilities may appear in time, and only an effective content management system can prevent security issues. These systems receive periodic upgrades to support the software, and their latest versions withstand the most recent threats and hacking techniques.
The most popular content management system platforms of the moment are WordPress and Joomla because they are user-friendly, and they enhance security. Their features are convenient for the user because they can operate modifications for both development and marketing tasks.
High-quality web design
Adobe revealed that Internet users prefer websites designed to look beautiful, over pages that were created to look elementary. This means the aesthetics of the website matter, and its something you should pay attention to.
At the end of the day, the first impression your site makes comes from its design. Illegible text, crowded elements, colours that hurt the eye, distressing colour combinations, and excessive ads are only some of the things that can deter a client from your website.
How can you make your website’s design look more aesthetically pleasing?
Use unique pictures and illustrations. Nothing shows your lack of interest more than stock photos. That’s why well-known brands use high-quality unique photos and illustrations. Take pictures for each of your products, present your team members, and work with designers to create original content for your web pages.
Place the call to action in a visible spot. All your pages should include a primary call to action that asks your visitors for a specific action. For example, if you want your clients to check your latest collection of sneakers, place a clear call to action on the homepage to make it easy for users to notice it.
Create an attractive layout. The layout of the website should align with your brand image. Work with a design agency to add elements to your website that enrich the visitors’ experience and make the site more pleasurable to browse. Don’t consider your website a blank wall for text. It’s a mix of elements that creates a multimedia experience for your clients.
Post trustworthy content
People browse the Internet because they need information. They land on your website for the same reason. At least in the case of first visitors, they check your link because they need a solution for their problem. Buying your products or signing up for the newsletter is of secondary importance for them. So, strive to attract them for the content you post.
When they like the information you offer, they may consider your call-to-action and buy what you offer.
How can you post high-quality content on your website?
Work with a team of professional copywriters. Your website is more than a place where you showcase your products. It’s a resource that explains how they function, engages clients, and retains audiences. A copywriter would know how to create content that communicates the right messages to your clients, better than you. Because while you know best your products, they know best how to create reliable content that captures people’s attention.
Double-check everything you post. Make sure each piece of content you post is accurate. If you public wrong information, you harvest mistrust, and your visitors won’t respond to your call-to-action. They may even rate your website as a misleading resource.
Keep your word. Show your clients you’re trustworthy. When you make promises and claims about your products, make sure they’re real. Don’t misrepresent a product because it alienates clients and tarnishes your reputation.
The bottom line
Your website is the reflection of your brand, and you can gain your clients’ support if you promote the idea your website is a reliable source of information. Work with experts to design a platform that makes your business look reputable.
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