When it comes to creating a profitable website, your primary focus should always be on the end user. From the moment a visitor hits your site to the moment they leave, the user experience should feel seamless, simple and pleasant.

There’s nothing more frustrating than a website that feels slow, cluttered and difficult to navigate, so here’s eight ways in which you can improve the overall experience for your visitors.

1. Be responsive

Mobile phones have overtaken desktops when it comes to browsing the internet. As they are driving most of the search engine traffic to websites, it’s essential for your site to be responsive. If you continue to keep a website that isn’t mobile friendly, you’re likely to see a significant decrease in traffic because it affect your ranking and, these days, people expect all websites to automatically adjust for being viewed on a mobile phone or tablet. Your visitors want to be able to view your site on the move, when the mood strikes.

2. Fast page loading times

The speed in which your pages load plays a vital role in whether a visitor will continue to your site or visit again in the future. A fast loading time will increase the possibilities of them visiting again, where as if they have to wait for it to load they are more likely to avoid your site for future reference. When the loading time of your website is too slow, it will frustrate the user and leave a negative first impression of your business.

3. Demonstrate optimum security

If you require your customers to enter sensitive information into your website, such as card details, you need to inspire trust. A security seal, such as HTTPS, is going to reassure customers that you care about protecting their data. Shoppers are more likely to abort their transaction when reaching the shopping cart if your online store appears unsecured, potentially losing you a significant sum. You can read more about HTTPS and WordPress security here.

4. Use an attractive CTA

A strong Call To Action (CTA) should be accessible on every page of your website. Don’t leave your customers to hunt for the information they need, such as your contact details, as this will make them feel frustrated and tense. Instead, make the process of signing up or buying from you as simple as possible so they have the best chance of converting.

5. Colour and white space

The use of colour and white space matters when it comes to the design of your website. Different colours evoke different feelings and, therefore, you should think about the message you wish to get across when choosing your website’s colour palette. White space is equally important to consider as this will help break up your content so users can focus on the most important elements of the website.

6. Use high-quality optimised images

Imagery helps communicate a message much better than written words do. However, they won’t be as effective if they’re not of high-quality or haven’t been optimised. Properly optimised images will reduce your website’s page loading times, reduce bandwidth and improve the browsing experience for your visitors. And if they are optimised properly, they can have a significantly positive impact on your SEO.

7. Catch your 404 errors

Nobody wants to stumble across a 404 error page during their search. While searching, users expect to land on any specific page, so if they end up on an error page it will give them a disjointed experience which may prompt them to leave the site. Fixing no found errors is a step forward in promising your customers a better user experience.

8. Create well designed headlines

The headlines you choose to use should establish a connection with potential customers. While creating page titles and blog post headlines you should include the keyword for targeting message to the right audience. Including keywords not only matters for attracting potential customers but it will also help your website to rank well in search engines.

Providing an outstanding user experience must be fulfilled to make those much-needed conversions. If you require a helping hand with your website’s security, ongoing maintenance and SEO, get in touch with WP Tech Support. We have a choice of great value plans to suit any size of business, regardless of your industry or location.