2 Things You Must Have ‘Above the Fold’ Of Your Website
First things first – what does ‘above the fold’ even mean?
Above the fold is essentially the part of the screen that initially shows up when you visit a site. Typically, it’s where the ‘banner/header’ image is set and includes the navigation bar.
why does this matter and why is it important?
This part is the FIRST thing people see! Plus, there’s the stat out there that it only takes 3-5 seconds for someone to make an impression on your site and decide if they want to stay. And again, since this is the FIRST thing visitors see – it’s important to make it worth it.
What should you have?
1. A clear message
Meaning – What do you do? Who are you? How can you help me?
It’s about making it as clear as possible for your visitors to know about you and know that you can help them.
Now there are different variations and ways to get this across. The point is that you’re able to get your message across clearly enough so the visitor understands. People are quick to judge and if they don’t get it, they aren’t going to stick around to find out.
Beginner Tip: I know getting clear on your messaging can be tough (I’ve been there), but it’s important to break it down and really state what you’re trying to accomplish and build. It may not be as specific at first but it will get there. If you’re getting stuck, think about your business in the most basic terms. It may not be as eloquent or ‘fancy’ as you’d like, but it’ll keep you moving forward. As you move forward, you’re going to find better words that fit your mission.
Multi-passionate Beginner Tip: Again, I’ve been here so I know it can be tough to figure out what to focus on, especially at the beginning. So you have 2 options: Pick your main focus – which should be your main money maker (or what you plan on it being) or pick them both/all and make it as simple as possible so people know the options they have. Also remember that maybe you have an all-in-one approach or have multiple distinct offerings. State them clearly. For example: Web designer, photographer, foodie or My mission is two-fold, make cookies and help you wow the world with your website… They are both clear + tell visitors what to expect.
2. A call-to-action + opt-in
Always, always, always tell people what to do. Give direction. You may not think it’s necessary, but people don’t like being lost (and they also don’t always like asking for directions) so just give your visitors clear direction on what to do next.
Your call to action can be: Work With Me, Read Now, Start Here, Shop Now, View Here, etc..
The one you should strive to have → SUBSCRIBE NOW or Join or Get Your Freebie Now
Now really, the only reason I’d say it’s okay not to have an actual opt-in is if your call to action is leading them to a section or a page dedicated to your opt-in.
The only other reason, is if you’re starting out and haven’t created one yet. Which means that you should be including a call to action in a button that leads to a profitable page or section of your site, like your services or products page.
There are ways to include both a call to action and an opt-in option all above the fold. You can have a link as part of your navigation bar, you can have a button (like stated above that leads to a full page dedicated to collecting emails) or a slime opt-in bar right below the image.
The biggest takeaway is that you realize how important what you have ‘above the fold’ really is and how to make the most of it. So to recap: clear message, call-to-action and a way to have visitors join your email list.
