Why not to write “Welcome to our website”
Over the years, I’ve seen my fair share of websites that use the phrase “Welcome to my/our website” or some variation of it. While this might seem friendly and inviting, it’s not as beneficial as you’d think. In fact, it could be hurting your website’s engagement rates. Let me explain why and show you how to create more engaging headlines instead.
Why Saying “Welcome to My Website” Isn’t Beneficial
Firstly, the phrase “Welcome to the website” is redundant. Visitors know they’ve arrived at your website—they don’t need reminding. Instead, use this valuable space to give a brief summary of what your website is about, what you offer, and how it can benefit the visitor—something they actually want to know.
Secondly, research shows that website visitors tend to ignore welcome messages. A study by the Nielsen Norman Group found that visitors often skip over text blocks that appear at the top of the page, including welcome messages. This means you’re not making the best use of the valuable ‘real estate’ at the top of your website.
Lastly, using welcome messages can negatively impact engagement. A study by HubSpot found that websites without welcome messages had a 10-20% higher engagement rate compared to those with them. This is likely because visitors are more inclined to interact with content that’s relevant and gets straight to the point.
Creating Engaging Headlines Instead
So, what should you do instead of using welcome messages? Create engaging headlines that capture the visitor’s attention and make them want to explore your website. Your headline should be concise, informative, and interesting, giving visitors a clear sense of what your website is about and what they can expect.
Here are some tips for creating engaging headlines:
Keep it Short and Sweet: Your headline should be short and to the point—ideally no more than 10 words. This helps visitors scan your site and quickly find what they need.
Be Clear and Informative: Make sure your headline is clear and gives visitors an immediate understanding of what your website offers.
Use Active Language: Active language makes headlines more engaging. For example, instead of saying "Our Services," you could say "Get Expert Help."
Use Numbers: Headlines with numbers tend to catch the eye. For instance, "10 Tips for Writing Engaging Copy" is more attention-grabbing than just "Tips for Writing Engaging Copy."
Highlight Your Unique Value Proposition: Your headline should highlight what sets you apart from competitors. Explain why visitors should choose your website over others.
Conclusion
While it might feel friendly to say “Welcome to my website,” it’s not as effective as you might think. Instead, use that valuable space to create headlines that engage visitors and make them want to explore further. Keep your headlines short, informative, use active language, and highlight your unique value. By doing this, you’ll boost your website’s engagement and provide a better experience for your visitors.
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