5 must have sections for your website
One of the hardest parts about creating a website is knowing what sections you need.
Today, we are going to talk about 5 sections you must have on your website for it to work. I will also touch on common mistakes to avoid when it comes to using these sections.
Let’s get started!
Common mistakes most businesses make
There are a handful of mistakes I see on most websites, and it hurts their chances of attracting more customers.
- Trying to be TOO creative in the design. Everyone wants their website to stand out. I get it, but you need to be careful. A website that is too different from the industry norms will create confusion. People have expectations when they reach out and you need to be in line with those.
- Being clever over clear. Your words do the selling. People don’t buy because of a nicely designed website. Start with clarity in your messaging. Make it simple and clear for people to understand what you do and how you can help them. Don’t overcomplicate this.
- Talking about the business too much. Your website is not a place to explain the entire company history. The reality is, your customer doesn’t care. They have a problem and need a solution. Talking about your business is fine, but you need to frame it in a way that positions you as the guide to help your customer.
Now we’ve avoided the common pitfalls, let’s talk about the sections you need. ## Section 1: Clear header
This is the first thing people see when they land on your website.
You want to create a great first impression. One that leaves them wanting to read more. To do that, you must answer these questions.
- Who do you help?
- What is your product/service?
- What next steps do they need to take?
Without this section, people will leave your website in search of someone who can help them solve their problem.
Section 2: The Stakes
What’s going to happen if they don’t purchase your product or service?
The goal isn’t to create fear, but you need to tell your customer what problem will continue to happen if they don’t move forward with you.
- Will they experience the same problem for the next 5 years?
- Will they struggle to grow their business?
If you understand your problem, then this agitates that problem a little more.
Section 3: Value Proposition
Here comes your brand to be the guide!
This section works well as a list or column section on a website. List out why you are the right person to work with. Focus on your value proposition and what makes you unique.
You’ve already highlighted the problem, your service should be a direct fix for that problem.
If your problem and solution aren’t linked, you won’t create that connection with your customer.
Section 4: Social Proof
People are hesitant to buy without social proof.
Social proof does one thing really well…creates trust!
Trust is a must have for every website. People buy with their hearts, not their heads. And if something smells fishy, they won’t move forward with you. They need to see you have helped others just like them.
Lower the barrier to entry by ensuring your customer they are in safe hands.
Section 5: The Plan
My favorite section to create on a website.
The plan section outlines a short 3 step process for getting started (I know your process is much longer than 3 steps). It doesn’t matter.
The goal of the plan is to make it easy for someone to get started working with you.
While your business doesn’t seem confusing to you, it does to your customer.
They want easy. That’s what the plan delivers.
That’s it!
If you put these sections on your website, you will see more people connecting with what you have to say and buying from you.
P.S. If you have any questions about how to implement these sections, reply to this email. I would love to help!
See you next week.
Luke
