Introduction
Creating a website is not a walk in the park, but with Content Management Systems (CMS) like WordPress, the process becomes much more manageable. Leveraging plugins and free templates can give your site a professional appearance, but is that enough? No. There are crucial elements that any website must incorporate to thrive online. Today, we will delve into the seven indispensable components that should be part of your website.
The 7 Must-Have Elements for Your Website
While websites may vary in purpose and functionality, they all serve as a gateway to a broader online audience. Now is the time to invest a bit of effort into ensuring your website has everything it needs to flourish on the internet. Let’s explore the seven elements that should never be overlooked.
1. SSL Certificate
Google’s recent algorithm update underscores the importance of SSL certificates. Starting in July of this year, Google will mark all websites without HTTPS as non-secure. This shift means that having an SSL certificate is no longer exclusive to e-commerce or large enterprises. Even for small websites that do not collect personal or payment information, having an SSL certificate is imperative to avoid penalties from Google.
The best part? You can obtain an SSL certificate for free. For instance, with our SSD Hosting plans, you get a Let’s Encrypt certificate that adds security without costing you a penny. To better understand the differences between free and paid SSL certificates, check out our article: Let’s Encrypt Vs Paid SSL Certificates – How Do They Differ?
2. Contact Form
Simplify communication with your visitors by incorporating a contact form. More than just a means for visitors to get in touch, a contact form serves as a 24/7 gateway to potential clients. It provides a straightforward way for users to reach out, eliminating the need to dial a phone number or access their email client. For guidance on creating a contact form in WordPress, especially if your template does not include one, we explain the process in detail using Contact Form 7.
Need inspiration? Look no further than La Criatura Creativa’s contact form, a stellar example of user-friendly design:
[Example of La Criatura Creativa’s contact form]
3. Contact Section
When discussing vital website elements, the contact section cannot be overlooked. This section is an ideal space to include your contact form. Recognizing that not all website visitors are there to make a purchase, provide multiple contact options. Include your phone number, email address, and links to your social media profiles. By offering diverse contact avenues, you increase the chances of retaining visitors who might otherwise navigate away.
4. Call to Action (CTA)
A well-optimized website or compelling content alone is not enough; you must also drive conversions. It’s crucial to impact your visitors and guide them toward the desired action, which may not always be a purchase. Whether it’s downloading an ebook, registering on your site, or making a reservation, a clear Call to Action (CTA) is essential. Crafting direct and persuasive language coupled with a design that complements your site’s style is crucial for enticing users to click. Striking the right balance is exemplified by Skyscanner’s effective use of CTAs:
[Example of Skyscanner’s CTA]
5. Responsive Design
In sync with the shift towards user experience, Google’s Mobile-First Index algorithm emphasizes the importance of mobile-friendly websites. With mobile devices surpassing computers as the primary means of internet access for over two years, adapting your website to be responsive is non-negotiable. The responsive design ensures a seamless user experience, contributing to your site’s SEO ranking.
If you’re already working on this, here are some tools to test your website’s responsiveness on various devices.
6. Well-Structured Content and Design
While original typography, a vibrant color palette, and brand-consistent style are crucial for effective web design, they are not everything. Your website must be well-structured from the outset, offering an intuitive design for users to navigate effortlessly. The architecture of your site should guide visitors to easily locate the information they seek, preventing premature exits that Google takes into account. A well-structured website not only benefits the user but also enhances Google indexing.
7. Social Media Links
The dynamics of online engagement have evolved significantly. Audiences now seek interaction rather than mere information consumption. Therefore, it’s essential to provide the tools users need to engage, including links to popular platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Did you know that 71% of customers with a positive social media experience recommend the brand to others? Establishing a social media presence is not just about interaction but also humanizing your brand.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ensuring your website includes these seven crucial elements is key to establishing a robust online presence. Whether you’re motivated by Google’s changing algorithms, the need for effective communication, or the desire for increased conversions, these elements collectively contribute to a successful website. As you embark on this journey, remember that a well-optimized, user-friendly website enhances not only user satisfaction but also your standing in the digital realm.
