It takes an average user only 50 milliseconds to form the first impression of your website. The header is the first thing that a website visitor looks at. It’s where a user begins their acquaintance with your site. How do you make the most of your website header? What elements is it made of? What are the good examples of an effective website header? Continue reading to learn all the answers!
Header is the upper part of a website page. Back in the day, a header referred to a narrow part of the page that contained the website menu, contacts, and company logo. Nowadays, however, the term “header” is used to describe the entire part of the page that you see before you start scrolling down. A website header performs three crucial functions.
Keep in mind that you only have a few seconds to get your message over to your website visitors. That’s why you need to make sure your header features all the right elements for a proper impact.
There are no two identical headers. While some headers represent the brand as a whole, others are dedicated to a specific product or target action. When deciding what content to include into your header, think about the goal that you want to achieve. Listed below are the most common elements which are incorporated into a website header. (This doesn’t mean that you need to use them all, though.)
Here are the factors to consider when picking the right elements for your header.
The visual design of a website header is made of colors, typography, graphics, usability, etc. For each of these elements, we’ve gathered smart tips and creative ideas.
Visual hierarchy refers to arranging the elements of a website header in order of importance. For more information on the visual hierarchy technique, click here. Check out some of the smart life hacks for effectively managing user attention.
Take a look at how Addevice, a top-notch mobile app developer, is using visual hierarchy on their website. Once you open the page, your eyes instantly dart to a short headline with a selling proposition and a red CTA button. To the right, you can see a minimalist illustration. This is a great example of a straightforward and airy header.
Simplicity is one of the main criteria of a good website menu. A menu must help users understand where on the website they’re at the moment and how to get to the right section. When working on the structure of your website menu, consider using trendy design techniques, such as:
The central element of a website header, a headline must have a compelling design and useful contents (text).
Unfortunately, there is no cookie-cutter solution when it comes to choosing the right size and font for your headline. Your headline must fit your brand personality and convey the main message of your online platform. At the same time, it must not steal the thunder from the rest of the homepage. Also, you need to make sure your headline is easy to read.
On the website for the Halo Lab digital agency, the headline takes up the entire header. However, the reserved colors and minimalist sans serif font make the headline look edgy and concise.
The contents of your headline are determined by the topic and goal of your website. For example, if you have an online store, you can provide information about new products and discounts. If you develop digital solutions for businesses, it might be a nice idea to offer a free sample of software for your customers to try out. Craft manufacturers can focus on the advantages of their hand-made produce.
A headline can perform a variety of functions, e.g. urge to a certain action, evoke emotions, strengthen trust, etc.
Whether you’re using photos or videos, drawings or animations, your graphics must resonate with your brand message and encourage customer loyalty. We’ve outlined the things to consider when creating graphic content for your header.
Here are two more exciting techniques that have the power to boost user experience and grab the attention of your visitors.
When you’re scrolling the website page for the Pitch software developer, you’re followed by a large sticky header that features the menu, CTA button, and catchy headline that says “Stunning presentations. Made together”. Also, you can click the link “See Pitch in action” to get the idea of how the Pitch software works.
CTA button encourages a potential customer to perform a target action in order to boost your conversion.
Remember that a header is an organic part of your online platform and brand. Make sure your website header:
Header is an essential element of your website and an important touch point with your target audience. Your website header must be eye-grabbing without being too into-your-face. Plus, it must be useful for your website visitors and fit the visual style of your brand. Examine the best design techniques and choose the ones that work for your website and company.
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