The “Contact Us” page is often one of the most overlooked page, but also the most important. You might not spend much time designing this page or giving it much thought because the amount of content there is minimal compared to product description pages. However, if someone clicks here, it’s because they’re looking to take the relationship to the next level. It’s just like the first phone call in dating.
Getting someone to actually initiate contact with a business is what all of those marketing and web design efforts are for. When a customer gets to this point, the process needs to be quick and painless. Make it as easy for them as possible. Take a look at your “Contact Us” page and see if you need any urgent changes.
Getting Over the First Hurdle
Whether you’re in the business of selling electronic shades or local flowers, customers need to be able to contact you. Make the “contact us” link obvious on the navigation bar and an option on every single page. Don’t make viewers hunt for it or hide it in a footer. It should be clear but not obnoxious. Even your grandmother should be able to identify it on any page within a couple of seconds.
Once it’s been identified, make the process easy. Never require registration simply to contact your business. This can instantly drive customers away. Give them choices. Offer a contact form as well as a professional email address and (preferably a toll free) phone number.
Make Yourself Presentable
Contact pages should have very limited text. Once people are there, they know what to do. Simply listing a large, hyperlinked email address, phone number, and a basic contact form is all you need. Be careful when designing the email hyperlink.
Not everyone has Outlook, but that seems to be the staple, so buck the trend. Take a hint from Craigslist and give people the choice of hyperlinking to a number of popular sites like Gmail or Yahoo! Mail, or simply copying and pasting the address. Everyone has a different preference when it comes to email so cater to your diverse customer base. Remember, it’s all about ease.
Don’t Skimp on the Looks
You spent a lot of time and possibly cash making your site look perfect. Unfortunately, some beginning web designers slack when designing the contact page. If the rest of your site features stunning images and carefully placed content, put in the same effort here. Simplicity and design are not mutually exclusive.
Consider this one last chance to highlight a best-selling product without being overpowering with information. Make sure your fonts match and complement the rest of the site. A graceful window is a popular option that makes great use of space. Provide your customers with a good experience before placing that important call or email.
Original Article: http://www.blogupon.co.uk/2013/08/creating-perfect-contact-us-page.html
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