Web design plays a crucial role in the success of your business, but making mistakes in web design and UX can have a negative impact on your SEO performance. To ensure optimal SEO results, it is important to assess your web design and consider key SEO factors such as response times, mobile user experience, and conversion rate optimization (CRO).
Here are the top 10 web design mistakes that you should avoid:
1- Poor Navigation
Navigation is often overlooked, but it is an essential aspect of web design. With the increasing use of mobile devices, it is important to design your website with intuitive navigation that is easy to use on all devices. Consider the accessibility of elements and the habits of your users when designing your navigation menu. Use expandable links and hidden sliding drawer menus for websites with plenty of content and limited space.
2- Inaccessible Content
Ensure that your content is viewable on mobile devices. In the age of mobile-first indexing, it is crucial to provide the same valuable content to mobile visitors as on the desktop version of your site. Opt for a responsive design that adapts to different screen sizes.
3- Sending Users Away From Your Website
Avoid directing users away from your website, especially when it comes to PDF downloads and links to external resources. Instead of making users download a PDF onto their phone, consider sending it via email to gain a new subscriber. When linking to other websites, make sure they open in a new tab, so your website remains accessible.
4- Resource Overload
Loading too many external resources can be costly for web designers. It can slow down page load time, leading to fewer conversions. Aim to have your web pages load in 2 seconds or less to meet user expectations. Use tools like Google’s Test My Site to check your pagespeed.
Remember that responsive design focuses on simplicity and adaptability, so prioritize the accessibility of the resources your customers use the most.
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5- Your Website Is Not Secure (HTTPS)
Ensure that your website is secured with an SSL certificate. Not having HTTPS in the URL bar can create a negative impression for visitors and impact your SEO. Most website hosting companies offer free SSL certificates, so take advantage of them.
6- Not Enough Quality Content
Include at least 300 words per page on your website, and provide in-depth information on your topic. Supplement the written content with videos or images to engage users and decrease bounce rates.
7- Missing Calls To Action
Include clear and prominent calls to action (CTAs) on every page of your website. CTAs encourage conversions and should be part of your conversion rate optimization (CRO) strategy. Utilize the sidebar for email signups or live chat options. Set up your CTAs as goals in Google Analytics to track conversions.
8- Lack of H1s and Metadata
Ensure that each page has a single H1 and relevant metadata. Tools like Screaming Frog can help identify pages that are missing these elements. Use Yoast or similar tools to add metadata with focus keywords in page titles and descriptions. Incorporate the focus keyword naturally throughout the content.
9- Publishing Duplicate Content
Avoid publishing duplicate content, as it harms your SEO efforts. Always create original and unique content. Use duplicate content checkers to ensure the originality of your content.
10- Pop-ups and Modals
Avoid using annoying pop-ups that disrupt the user experience. Google discourages displaying pop-ups that cover the main content or require dismissal to access the content. Opt for layouts that don’t obstruct the main content.
In conclusion, proper SEO web design is vital for attracting customers and supporting your organic search efforts. Consider working with a web design company, like Online Ethos, that can provide expertise and guidance for website redesigns or new websites. Prepare yourself for expert assistance when you need it.