If you’re in the business of online marketing, you know the value of a good lead. Capturing that lead, however, can be the difference between a growing business and a stagnant one. Lead capture forms are the front door to your business – the point of connection between your customers and your brand. Here are six smart practices for making those forms more effective than ever.
1. Clear Value Proposition
Your form is more than just a box on a web page; it’s an invitation to a conversation. To ensure it’s compelling, your form must clearly communicate what’s in it for the user. Begin by identifying the core offering that the form is tied to – whether it’s a newsletter subscription, a free trial, or a downloadable resource. Then, succinctly communicate the benefits the user can expect. Avoid jargon and salesy language that can muddy the waters. Be direct, clear, and highlight the essential value with actionable copy to incite the user to sign up.
2. Simplified Design
The next hurdle after value is user experience. No one wants to jump through hoops to get in touch with a business (metaphorical or physical). Keep the design of your forms simple, with as few fields as possible. Each additional field decreases completion rates, so only ask for the information you absolutely need at the onset. Utilize white space, clear headings, and visual cues to guide the user through the process, and ensure the form is responsive so it looks good and works well on any device.
3. Strategic Placement
Your form can’t capture a lead if it’s invisible. Strategic placement is key. You want your form to be visible and accessible without being intrusive. Above the fold on your homepage and landing pages is a good starting point, where it’s one of the first things visitors see. Maintain visibility as the user scrolls, but don’t be afraid to use pop-ups if they’re timed and relevant. Bottom line, your form should be both convenient and unobtrusive, and A/B testing can help to find the sweet spot in your design.
4. Compelling Call-To-Action
Every form needs a strong Call-To-Action (CTA). The CTA is, after all, the final nudge that convinces a visitor to take action. You should tailor your CTA to the action you want the user to take. Whether you’re asking for a subscription, a download, or a contact, the language and design of your CTA should reflect that. Avoid generic “submit” buttons and instead use phrases that imply a value exchange, such as “Get My Free Ebook” or “Subscribe and Save.”
5. Social Proof and Trust Signals
With internet security concerns at an all-time high, users need to know their information is safe. By integrating social proof and trust signals into your forms, you can assuage these worries and boost conversions. This can be as simple as adding secured payment icons or more elaborate, such as testimonials from satisfied customers. Additionally, reassure users with a link to your privacy policy and information on how you will use their data. Transparency is not only ethical; it’s excellent business.
6. Smart Follow-Up
Lead capture doesn’t end with a submit button. What happens next might be more important. Have a clear and effective follow-up strategy. This includes a thank-you message that immediately appears post-submission, along with transparent information about the next steps. If possible, provide a lead magnet or a teaser about the value they’ll receive. Follow-up emails that continue to provide value can also be part of a robust lead nurturing strategy. Make every interaction count towards building a lasting relationship with your leads.
In conclusion, the power of a lead capture form is not just in its functionality but in its ability to create a meaningful, valuable exchange between your brand and potential customers. By focusing on the principles outlined above, you’ll be well on your way to creating forms that not only capture leads but also engage and delight those who interact with your brand.