Contact pages are critically important for websites—the more efficient and user-friendly a contact page, the more opportunities are likely to arise.
A good contact page design can even influence conversion rates; if a visitor can easily contact you, that same user will likely have a positive impression of your site. Additionally, if the process is simple (i.e. fewer number of form fields), you could be looking at a huge jump in conversion rates.
In the same way contact pages improve your site, they also create a relationship with your users. In fact, contact pages are used by a wide number of sources: eCommerce, news magazines, online services, etc.
Despite this fact, however, many designers underestimate the importance of a well-designed contact page, choosing instead to focus on other content.
What Does a Great Contact Page Need?
Imagine you want to contact the owner of a website, or better yet, you want to contact customer service. You search and search the website but are unable to voice your concern. Sometimes the information is there, but it is “hidden.” Even finding a phone number can lead to a long call of automated messages.
Brands who provide the bare minimum in support aren’t doing themselves any favors. In fact, great contact pages don’t just convey information—they are informative and interactive. Most importantly, a great contact page encourages users to continue doing business with you.
Additionally, exceptional contact pages can influence a customer’s impression of the brand as a whole, providing a resource for discussion, feedback, and yes, even complaints. This freedom is important for users, because it allows them to feel heard and appreciated.
Remember, a web presence is also a way to communicate with others. By allowing customers to tell us what they think and what they want, we are establishing a dialogue with them. Web developers and users alike can benefit from this collaboration, and this is exactly the reason why designing an excellent contact page is important for your brand.
Well Designed Contact Pages – How Should They Look?
Functionality comes first
We all know functionality is key. You may even be thinking, Of course my contact page is functional. That’s what it’s there for. And you may be right.
However, a double check on functionality can do more good than harm. Broken links and crowded pages will not help your business, especially if it means you’re missing important messages, or you’re providing incorrect information.
When in doubt, consider your users. After all, this page is for them.
Location
Make sure your contact page is easily accessible. Appearance and sophistication mean nothing if customers are unable to locate the page. As obvious as it may seem, remember to list instructions. Life is easier when we have a step-by-step guide.
In general, designers place contact information in two places:
- Primary Navigation can be the key to a successful contact page. Users are supposed to find a contact link from the very first moment they access your website.
Experience shows users tend to look at the right side of the page, so you might consider putting your contact link there. Remember, this information is of secondary importance to your user, so don’t make it too big or intrusive.
- Sub navigation is also an idea—you can place a small, but clear link in the upper right corner of the page. Whatever you do, avoid including the link in a drop-down menu, because it will likely be overlooked.
Excellent design
We already know how important contact pages are for our business.
While the contact page may not be the most impressive aspect of your website, it should still be seamlessly designed and user-friendly. Without proper visuals or functionality, it’s unlikely you’ll establish a stable relationship with customers.
Shorten the contact forms
Remember when we talked about forms and conversion rates? Users have no time to complete long forms, which is why simpler is better. For a better user experience, ask only for the basics.
Keep language value-oriented
Be clear and precise about the benefits your customers can obtain from the brand you are presenting.
Why? Clear language is the most secure way to attract and maintain attention. Nicely summarized information should be concise, so people can easily find the information they need.
Use Google maps
If you want a productive company, help your customers locate you. In big cities, an address may not exactly ring a bell. A physical explanation can help your credibility (even if you are online-based).
Take care of responsiveness
Responsiveness is everything in a web-based businesses. This is one rule with no exceptions.
As the internet continues to be integrated with more and more operations, contact information needs to be available through any browser or device. After all, you don’t want to lose out just because your info isn’t mobile-friendly.
Integral Components
Email Addresses or Contact forms
We’ve discussed users and what they want: short, easy ways to contact the service provider. How do you help users do that?
Here are some pros for both components, whether you choose contact forms or email addresses exclusively.
Contact forms
- Don’t ask people to switch between pages
- Don’t ask users to create accounts and/or log in with emails
- Enable autofill function, if available
- Enable the ability to send notifications and emails
Email addresses only
- Set up the system to feel personal and safe
- Enable the email to be saved and used later on
- Copy sent messages and make them accessible
When in doubt, why not use both? Since different methods work for different users, it is best to include both a contact form and an email address option.
Form validation – why is it so important?
Form validation is significant when it comes to submitting contact forms.
In fact, form validation will save your customers time, as they will know their information has been successfully submitted.
Additionally, form validation can guide users, as it will actively draw their attention to wrongly entered data or missing fields.
Telephone numbers
Phone numbers are usually excluded because businesses are afraid they will be bothered all the time. However, the same as a physical location, phone numbers provide credibility and they invoke a feeling of safety among customers.
Adding telephone numbers is essential if you want your customers to trust you.
It is perceived as the approach of real companies, both traditional and online-based.
Social media profiles
Social media buttons are more and more common on contact pages. Social media can really add value to certain businesses, especially if 24/7 customer support is offered via social (Twitter, Facebook, etc.) Is this something you could include for your business?
Designing a Contact Page
Great contact pages require technical knowledge to be designed. The most important part is visual styling.
For instance, if applying a contact form, include spacious fields that look friendly and inspiring. Padding and whiteness can seriously improve the look.
Before designing a completely new layer out of nothing, a designer should do long and detailed research. Elements should be diverse and well-organized. The functionality of the home page should be essential, and mockups should be done to ensure the site has been successfully developed.
Finally, contact pages must fit the visual scheme that identifies the site and brand. Content consistency will keep customers focused and pleased to be on your site.
Ending Thoughts
Above all, ensure your contact page can be accessed through a clear, functional and very visible link (main navigator, footer, right corner).
Remember, some users are only able to contact you through the provided information. Make it easy! A good support system can be the peak of your business—inviting a great partner, excellent sale or promotion opportunity.
Usability is the key to success. Give people what they want. Remember to ask only essential questions; give proper formats and input options, and validate them. Be accessible through every browser or device. Not only will following these guidelines help you, but simplicity will also help your users. Oh, and a good website ensures that you (and your users) succeed.
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