If you already have a website, how good is the user experience you offer? Sometimes as the owner of a company, it’s hard to look at your website from the user’s perspective. In fact, it’s just plain hard to see the obvious, and while you can try to look at it from the user’s point of view, you still may be blind to a few elements that can make the difference in whether the user becomes a regular visitor or even a customer. Because your website is THE most important product you have on the internet, it’s important that you keep these elements in mind.
Intuitive navigation. It’s essential that your visitors can navigate easily from one page to another without having to hunt for what they’re looking for. Navigation should make it easy for the user to get from your home page to other pages of your site. Even on internal pages, you may want to consider breadcrumb navigation; in other words, regardless of where your user is on your site, he or she knows where they are and how to get back. Also make sure that outbound links do not take your visitor completely off of your website by having those links open in a new window.
Every now and then it’s important to check to make sure your links are working. There are tools to help you do this which include Google Analytics and Xenu’s Link Sleuth.
Periodically review your content. Sure, you know what your content says, but is it possibly outdated or written in a language that could be simplified for clearer understanding by your readers? Check to make sure none of your pages are out-of-date or stale. Your content should be informative and valuable, something your users would find current and want to read today.
Content includes videos and images as well. Is there any way that your text, images or video could be improved? Is everything on your website still in tune with your brand? Take an overall look at where your images or videos are placed on your pages to ensure they’re in the most effective positions.
Ask your users their opinion. Nothing’s better than feedback to find out what users really think or feel about your website. Survey your readers by sending them an email asking for their thoughts if you have a list, or poll them right on your site. Organize focus groups with your target consumers or others in your industry. The more groups or “teams” you can build, the better you can understand various perspectives and expectations of your website. Try using tried and true tools like FiveSecondTest or SurveyMonkey.
With online marketing, user experience really is everything. Is your website doing its job? These tips will help your website market your products/service almost effortlessly.
