Let's find out how to create irresistible CTAs (Call-To-Actions)! You should already have CTAs sprinkled throughout your website (at least one on every page), but I'd like to go over some different ways to make these extra-effective.
What do you want your reader to DO? This is the main question that you need to answer before we can improve your CTAs. Especially with content (blog posts, etc), you never want to leave it at a dead end- you want to add a CTA aka ‘next steps' so your website visitor sticks around! But this is all basic marketing stuff, right? How can we really make our CTAs stand out?
Color and Placement
Make your CTA pop by using a bright color that really stands out. Picking the right color depends on your site, audience, and goals. Check out color psychology for ideas, while also making sure to stay on brand with whatever color you choose.
When it comes to where to put it, above the fold is always a safe bet. Make sure it’s visible without scrolling, or try a “sticky” CTA that follows users as they scroll (I love these!).
Keep it Short
Your CTAs need to be short and concise. The word count on your button or link should be no more than 3-5 words.
Keep Design in Mind
After nailing down your irresistible CTA, don't skimp on its design. Basic tweaks like font styles, icons, and button shapes can really make your CTAs pop! Visit some of your favorite websites and pay attention to their CTAs.
Use Action Words
With such limited space, you need to be direct. It's best to start your CTA with a strong verb or action-oriented phrase. Here are some examples from clearvoice.com:
- Download
- Order
- Buy
- Shop
- Subscribe
- Save
- Reserve your seat
- Submit
- Sign up
- Contact Sales
- Count me in
- Start your free trial
- Hear his story
- Shop our deals
- Get 50% off now
- Add to cart
- Get started
- Support
- Donate
- Volunteer
- Give
- Join
- Grab
- Claim
- Take advantage of
- Learn more
- See more
- See how
- Start
- Check it out
- Swipe up/right/left
- Schedule
- Book a demo
- Try for free
- Claim
And a few that do not start with a verb, but are still very effective:
- Limited
- Last chance
- Sale ends tomorrow
- I want in/Count me in
- What we do
- Yes, I want ___
How Many CTAs Should I Have?
Here are some good guidelines, according to clearvoice.com:
- Homepage. The one place it’s OK to have multiple CTAs. This is the front page of your brand, so it makes sense to offer them many doors to the rest of the site.
- Service/Product pages. 3-4—one to buy now, one to learn more/talk to someone, and one to see related items.
- Blog posts. 3-4—one to helpful, relevant content; one to subscribe to your newsletter; and a combo button/anchor-text CTA at the end of the post.
- Landing pages. 1. That’s it. Get them to convert.
- Email. 1-2. What’s the primary purpose of the email? Make that the more prominent CTA. Due to the more personal nature of email, brands often include an anchor-text CTA that points the reader to a helpful piece of content (but doesn’t sell to them).
And that's it! Take some time to review and refine your CTAs, and start paying attention to your conversion rates and engagement after you make these adjustments.
Need a Helping Hand?
If you want some help with your CTAs and website design, let's work together! (Yep, dropping my CTA now 🌟)
