One of the first things many clients tell me is they want one of those “slider” things on their website, something that flashes and gets people’s attention. Usually this is in reference to a set of large images that slide from one image to the next. These are usually seen on the homepage of a website mostly near the top of the page. This is a great but simple way to add movement and content to your site but it isn’t the only way to do that.
If you are looking for something different to draw attention to your site here are some options that you have.
If your company has videos about your services or history, one thing you can do instead of a slider is use a still image from your video. Then when a viewer clicks on that image the video will start playing. I would suggest making it an option to click on the video rather than having the video automatically play. This options allows your viewer to visually learn about your company and is something different that will help you stand out. Just remember with a video you want it to be about 90 seconds long, anything longer and the viewer may get bored and move on.
This may seem like a “boring” option but a static image with text put on your site is a great clean way to give your clients a visual of your company. When choosing this option you want to use low key images that depict your company. A good example is if you are a construction company using a static image of blueprints would be a perfect visual.
This image is very similar to a static image with text but you can put clickable buttons within your image. Keep in mind you want to use an image that is related to your company. This adds depth in a simple way to your site. Your call to actions will also help drive traffic into your webpage and keep the viewer engaged. Learn more about Call to Action buttons in our “Call to Action Blog”: Using Call to Action Buttons on Your Website.
This is another option that you can do with a static image that adds depth and something unique to your site. You can have a background image that portrays your business and then on top of it you can have a contact form so your viewers can reach you instantly. Then you can have some text on the image that gives a brief explanation of your business and draws attention to the page.
If you are still wanting to use a slider on its own or in combination with any of the above there are few things to keep in mind when using this option.
1. Make sure you pick appropriate images. For example, you want images that visually represent your company as a whole and will keep your viewer’s attention. I suggest staying away from full face shots of stock image people if you can help it, especially if you have a staff page.
2. Be mindful of the text you use and how it appears on the image. For example, you don’t want to use an image with a lot of white and then a light grey text. Your design team will be able to help you with this.
3. Size: You want to have a slider that can accommodate a wide range of images and will translate over to all devices well.
Whatever you chose for you company, be it a slider or something different, keeping these key items in mind and working closely with your design team, you are certain to have a website that showcases your talents and keeps your viewers coming.
