Written by Drew Adams

Have you ever wondered what you need to make your homepage shine? Well, look no further because today, I have assembled the 11 essential elements to put on your website homepage. We will take a look at everything from logos to statements to visually appealing fonts. And the list just goes on, so let’s jump right in!

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Why What You Put on Your Website Homepage Matters

Let’s start with the “why” behind what gets added to your homepage. This gives a potential visitor or client a first impression of your services.

The information you put on your homepage needs to provide the info that your reader needs to know. Why should they work with you? Who even are you? These questions need to be answered on your homepage.

Now that you understand the “why,” you’re probably wondering what specifically to consider to make potential visitors stay on your website once they get there. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.

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Eleven Essential Elements for Your Website Homepage

A homepage needs eleven elements to create a positive first impression, letting visitors know they’ve found what they need. Let’s dive into each of them and examine why they matter to your website.

1. Your Logo

Your logo and name should be displayed prominently at the very top of the page. From their first glance, your visitor should know your business name and get the general vibe—all by looking at your logo.

2. Website Navigation

There should be a menu for website navigation. We usually find it near the top, whether on a banner or as a drop-down on one side. Making this menu intentional and distinct is vital. It should be clear that each option will take the user to a new part of your website and that their chosen path will get them to where they want to be.

 3. A Bold Statement

Near the top of the page, your website’s first words should be bold. They should inform the user that this brand relates to them or is here to serve them in some way. Making a bold statement about your desire to serve and relate to them will make the reader want to remain engaged, leading them to continue reading.

4. A Short “About” Section 

Next, your homepage should include a short “About” section. So far, you have shown the user your name and informed them of what you will do for them. The next question they will have is,

“And you are . . .?”

This is valid! You need to tell the user who you are and why they should trust you. Be open, but also show confidence, informing the user that you know what you are talking about.

5. Call to Action

The next item on your homepage should be a call to action. The idea is that everything above this has driven the user to want to know more. Provide a call to action, such as a button that takes them to other resources or a link to your contact or order forms. The goal here is to drive engagement and point toward a deeper relationship or an actual purchase.

6. Animation

Your website homepage should include animation across all parts of the page. That could be anything from a GIF to a video or art that flies onto the screen as the user scrolls. The goal of animation is to keep the reader engaged. Google actually favors websites with animation as well, so this helps with SEO.

7. Keywords!

Keywords are super important for every page on your website, including your homepage! Read this blog post to learn more about rules for SEO that can help explain keywords and their importance.

8. Visual Interest

Visual interest is vital for your homepage. While this may seem self-explanatory, it can often be easily overlooked. Fonts should be readable, colors should be cohesive, and your homepage should be easy on the eyes.

9. Summary Blocks

The next item to put on your website homepage is summary blocks. These should pertain to important parts of your website. They could be a summary of the benefits your company provides or the perks of working with your company. The point is to show people how they can engage with you and quickly learn what your company is all about.

10. Footer

The footer is found at the bottom of the homepage, and it’s a great place to help your user “regroup.” It provides a place for a summary, a call to action, contact info, and navigation. Your visitor has made it to the end of your homepage, and they now have options to go anywhere they want. They no longer need to go back to the top for navigation!

11. Social Proof

Social proof is a necessity for your homepage. It shows that your company is found on more than just a single website. You are on LinkedIn, Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, an email list, etc. Displaying these additional locations helps prove that you really are who you say you are!

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How to Start Adding These Essential Elements to Your Website Homepage Today

So how the heck do you actually put all this together?!

I’m so glad you asked! The first step is to make a plan. You can start working on this one item at a time. You can also make a plan to save up to hire someone else to design and create your website with your oversight and inspiration. Check out the Outsourcing 101 free guide and learn how you can get started on this today!