A call-to-action (CTA) is a prompt on a website that encourages visitors to take a specific action. CTAs are designed to guide users towards a particular goal, such as making a purchase, signing up for a newsletter, or downloading content.

Examples of how CTAs are used on websites:

  • “Sign up for our newsletter” forms in website footers or pop-ups
  • “Add to cart” or “Buy now” buttons on e-commerce product pages
  • “Start your free trial” buttons on SaaS (Software as a Service) websites
  • “Download our free e-book” links on blog posts or landing pages
  • “Contact us” or “Get a quote” forms on service-based websites
  • “Learn more” links to additional information about a product or service
  • “Subscribe now” buttons for subscription-based services or content
  • “Donate now” buttons on non-profit or charity websites
  • “Schedule a demo” links on B2B (Business-to-Business) websites
  • “Register now” buttons for webinars, events, or courses.

Here are some best practices for creating effective calls-to-action (CTAs):

  • Use clear, action-oriented language: CTAs should be concise and use strong, actionable verbs like “Buy,” “Sign up,” “Download,” or “Subscribe.”
  • Make CTAs visually prominent: Use contrasting colors, whitespace, and larger font sizes to make CTAs stand out from surrounding content.
  • Place CTAs strategically: Position CTAs where users are most likely to take action, such as above the fold, at the end of a blog post, or after demonstrating a product's value.
  • Create a sense of urgency: Use words like “now,” “today,” or “limited time offer” to encourage immediate action.
  • Keep it simple: Avoid clutter around CTAs and minimize the number of actions competing for users' attention on a single page.
  • Optimize for mobile: Ensure CTAs are easily tappable and well-spaced on mobile devices.
  • Test and refine: Use A/B testing to experiment with different CTA variations (e.g., text, color, placement) and optimize based on performance data.
  • Align CTAs with user intent: Ensure the CTA matches the user's stage in the customer journey and the content they are engaging with.
  • Deliver on your promise: The action taken after clicking the CTA should align with the expectation set by the CTA's text and context.

By following these best practices, you can create CTAs that effectively guide users towards desired actions and help achieve your website's goals.

Related:
7 Call to Action (CTA) Best Practices for Guaranteed Landing Page Conversions
How to Create a Call-To-Action for Your WordPress Site (the Right Way)
20 Call to Action Examples + How To Write a CTA That Converts