Discover the most frequent errors in contact page design and how to steer clear of them.
If connecting with current and prospective customers is a goal for your business website, there are several contact page pitfalls to avoid. We will highlight the ones mention the errors here, and we’re not alone in our sentiments.
Common Contact Page Errors
In a previous discussion about contact pages, I emphasized how the right content on this page could enhance both user experience and SEO. In the comments, Simon inquired about the top five most common mistakes on contact pages. Since my personal list of pet peeves aligns with what I consider the most widespread errors, I’ve decided to dedicate this post to them. Let’s jump right in with the first one.
Relying Solely on a Form
A contact page that consists of just a form fails to cater to all visitors. Inevitably, some people will struggle with forms. Offer an alternative, such as an email address or a phone number. Here’s why visitors might dislike or misunderstand your layout:
- Excessive Form Length: People lose interest or lack the time to complete lengthy forms. Keep them concise and focused.
- Lack of Responsiveness: This negatively impacts the mobile user experience on your contact page. Labels might be obscured as mobile browsers prioritize form fields.
- Technical Issues: Forms can break, perhaps due to missing updates to your preferred contact plugin, among other reasons.
Using Creative Contact Page Names
Isn’t it frustrating having to search a website just to locate the contact page? I believe there are only two acceptable approaches:
- Include a “Contact” menu item in your main and/or footer menu.
- Place your contact page at example.com/contact/.
I won’t waste time looking elsewhere. It’s either one of these straight to your search or I’m off to Google to find another company that will address my query. Ideally, the link to your contact page should be above the fold, though footer links are also common as primary or supplementary links.
Just like the URL, the page title should be “Contact” or a variation like “Contact Us” or “Get in Touch.” Avoid using vague phrases like “Let’s Talk Business” that don’t immediately convey the page’s purpose. Such titles confuse visitors and even Google. Make it crystal clear that this is the page for contacting you.
Presenting Outdated Information
It’s crucial to remember that contact pages, just like other pages, require regular updates. Relocating offices? Update your website. New sales representative? Change the profile picture and email address. Ensure your information is consistently accurate.
Don’t underestimate this. Outdated information is one of those contact page mistakes we often neglect, thinking, “I’ll get to it eventually” or “It’s on my to-do list.” Update it as changes occur. If your address changes, make sure to inform Google during the process.
Failing to Provide Private Contact Options
Simply suggesting to “Reach out on WordPress Slack,” “Talk to me on Twitter,” or “Drop a comment below” isn’t sufficient. Believe it or not, some contact pages use comment forms as contact forms! People who want a conversation with you generally prefer a direct and private channel.
Is it advisable to showcase social media display links to social on a contact page? I believe it’s only justifiable if you actively monitor those platforms for inquiries. If you list Instagram but check it infrequently, it’s likely not your preferred contact method. In that case, remove the link from your contact page. The best scenario is offering at least two private contact options, such as a form and email address or phone number, allowing visitors to choose an alternative if one fails.
Neglecting to Have a Contact Page at All
If I had a penny for every website without a (transparent) contact page… As I’ve said before, every website needs one. Most websites aim to interact with visitors, encourage purchases, or provide information. Visitors may have questions or exciting business proposals for you. Ensure they have a clear way to get in touch.
While it might seem like the most obvious mistake on this list, it’s important enough to emphasize.
What Other Contact Page Mistakes Come to Mind?
Undoubtedly, there are more. I could probably list additional ones on a different day. The ones above are my personal pet peeves. But what about these:
- Lack of clear form submission confirmation, leading to repeat submissions.
- Terrible captchas. Enough said!
- Contact pages overloaded with distractions. Let me contact you in peace!
Your Turn
Share your thoughts in the comments. Tell me what annoys you the most about contact pages!