Posted at July 20, 2015 at 3:53 pm by admin
A website design always includes a website footer, but many people consider the footer only suitable for disclaimers and cookie policy documents. But the footer can be a valuable part of a website if used correctly, so ask yourself if you have let your website footer become a missed opportunity.
Common website footer mistakes
There are several mistakes that are made by many, including website designers, when it comes to the design of a website footer. These include including a copyright notice and nothing else, but also failing to use the footer to repeat contact details or Calls to Action. Broken links, excessive placing of logos, and out of date information are all notorious footer mistakes.
Why the footer is important
The footer is important because it is visible on every page of your website, including your blog if it is part of your main site. Using the footer to its optimum capabilities also means that you need not clutter your main pages with text or images. The footer is also usually the last thing a visitor to your website sees, especially if they are viewing it using a mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet. This means it may be the last opportunity you have to make a connection with your site’s visitors and the last opportunity to make a sale.
What your footer should be used for
Your footer therefore, should be used for Calls to Action, links to other pages on your website, contact details, opening hours and social media buttons. It should also be used for a copyright notice and policies, because this is where most people are likely to look for them. You can also use your footer for a list of recent blog posts and their most popular categories, your Twitter and/or Facebook feed, and your logo.
Keep it simple
You may be thinking that this is a lot of information to put in your footer and this is true, so you will need to exercise discretion when choosing what to include. Do not include links that are of little value or interest to your users, for example, but rather focus on links that will take your users to places where you want them to be and which they will find entertaining, informative and relevant. Do make your contact details – business name, address, telephone number, email and operating hours – clearly visible so it is easy for users to get in touch.
The footer of your website is a prime opportunity to market your business and enhance engagement with your website users. Pay as much attention to your footer design as to the rest of your website to ensure that your site is working hard for you 24/7.