Website Hero Image and Copy Tips For a Powerful First Impression
As a Squarespace Website designer and brand strategist, I've seen firsthand how a well-crafted hero section can transform a good website into an irresistible one!
Let's chat about that all-important 'hero section' (aka 'web banner') - that eye-catching combo of image and text at the top of your homepage and underneath your header/navigation bar.
The Dynamic Duo: Your Website Hero Image and Hero Copy
Picture this:
A potential dream client lands on your website. What's the first thing they see?
Yep - your hero image and copy! This power pair is like your website's warm, welcoming hug and it has a big job to do!
“A recent study by the Nielsen Norman Group revealed that users spend an average of 5.59 seconds looking at a website’s written content before moving on. This emphasizes the importance of concise, impactful hero copy.”
Website client hero section example.
Why it works: Vibrant hero images sit alongside clear and straightforward motivational hero copy underpinned with an overall design that suits the brand personality. The CTA encourages visitors to head to the shop and purchase their bit of film history.
Your hero section isn't just about looking pretty (though who doesn't love a beautiful image?).
It's about setting the right tone for your brand, guiding your audience on a journey, and - most importantly - creating that instant connection with a pleasing design and harmonious colour schemes, avoiding clutter to maintain focus on your key message and CTA (call to action).
When we get it just right, this dynamic duo (hero image and hero copy) grabs attention, builds trust, and has your visitors eager to explore more.
Squarespace makes creating an eye-catching hero section with its intuitive drag-and-drop features, and custom styling options. You can easily add high-quality images, videos, and bold typography that instantly grab attention. Plus, with built-in mobile optimisation and flexible layouts, your hero section will look stunning across all devices—ensuring your brand makes a strong first impression every time.
Why Your Hero Image and Copy Matter (More Than You Might Think)
1. First Impressions are Everything
In our fast-paced digital world, you've got anywhere from milliseconds, up to four seconds to make an impact.
Your hero section? It's prime real estate!
Studies show that visitors form an opinion about your brand faster than you can say "fabulous". A well-chosen hero image, paired with words that pack a punch, instantly communicates your magic and who you're here to help. It's your chance to show off your value from the start!
Why it Works: Bowland Training’s emotive hero image speaks to the transformation that the client is seeking. The hero copy is straightforward and speaks to the desired outcome, with a choice of two CTAs. Keywords are present.
2. Visual Storytelling That Speaks Volumes
Your hero image should be the visual embodiment of your brand's vibe and values. It's not just a pretty face; it's a storytelling superstar.
An authentic, powerful image creates an emotional connection before your visitor reads a single word. Remember what I always say - this is your chance to make their heart skip a beat before they've even scrolled.
Why it Works: Alice’s jewellery is beautifully set off by her subtle and well-chosen hero image that matches her brand perfectly. The hero copy does a good job of describing the collection and the personality of the brand. In my opinion, some well-chosen keywords would have been useful for SEO purposes.
3. Crystal Clear Communication is Your Superpower
Your hero copy has one job - to clarify your offer and showcase your 'brand magic'. It ensures visitors instantly understand why they absolutely need to stick around and explore more.
Don’t keep your visitors guessing. The clearer your message, the more likely they will stay and explore!
Studies show that failing to communicate a site’s purpose at a glance causes potential clients and customers to click away from the site.
A survey carried out by Stanford Web Credibility Research found that 75% of users admit to making judgements about a company's credibility based on its website's design.
Source: Stanford Persuasive Technology Lab, 2022
Tried-and-True Tips for a Hero Section That Wows
After years of helping purpose-filled entrepreneurs create websites that truly shine, I've gathered a few golden nuggets of wisdom.
Here are my top tips for crafting a hero section that'll have your dream clients swooning:
Why it Works: A hero image that speaks to luxury and modern design. Keywords are present. The hero copy states clearly what this website is about. A CTA would have been helpful.
Use High-Quality, Soul-Stirring Images
Your hero image should do more than just look stunning - it should tell your story!
Choose high-quality, genuine images that capture the essence of your brand and reflect the real-life scenarios that will resonate with your ideal clients. Whether it's a snapshot of you in action (smiling, of course), or a scene that speaks to your audience's dreams, keep it real and relatable. This fosters a sense of connection and relatability.Remember, authenticity is your secret weapon!
Write Copy That Connects and Converts
Understand your audience. Tailor your hero copy to your audience’s needs.
Your hero copy should sing to your dream clients' souls! Start with an empowering and inclusive headline that speaks directly to their deepest desires or biggest challenges, followed by a brief, irresistible call to action (CTA). We're aiming for clarity with a sprinkle of magic here.
This is your moment to make a heart-to-heart connection that communicates the value or transformation your service offers - do your best using language that connects with your audience’s goals and aspirations.
I’ve written a blog post to uncover 5 simple ways to show your brand personality on your website that stands out and resonates with dream clients.
Read this post if you need help writing authentic web copy that feels like you.
Strong and Relevant CTAs
Use clear, action-based CTAs that guide visitors towards the next step, whether to schedule a call, get in touch, purchase a course, or explore more about your offerings.
Mobile Optimisation
Ensure your hero section is fully mobile responsive as many users will access your site via smartphones and tablets.
You might be interested in my post on images that are slow loading and how to rectify that.
Maintain Consistency with Branding
Ensure your hero section aligns with your overall brand identity, maintaining consistency in colours, fonts, and messaging across your website.
Keywords and SEO
Don’t forget to include relevant keywords in the hero copy. This is essential for both SEO and connecting with your ideal audience. Keywords not only help with search engine rankings but also ensure the message speaks directly to your target clients' needs and search behaviours.
Think about the specific terms your clients would use to find your services. For example, instead of generic phrases like "get started," you could use more specific calls to action such as "Schedule your brand strategy session" or "Transform your wellness journey." This way, you're aligning with what your audience is actually searching for while also maintaining clarity and purpose in the copy.
Bonus Tip: Embrace the Power of Testing
One size doesn't fit all in the world of web design.
A small tweak to your headline or a swap of your image could enliven your engagement. Don't be afraid to experiment with A/B testing different elements in your hero section. It's a brilliant way to discover what makes your audience's hearts flutter.
Sometimes, it's the little details that create big magic!
Ready For Some DIY Action?
Take a good look at your current hero section. Does it truly represent your brand and speak to your ideal clients?
Brainstorm ideas for images that capture your brand's essence. Remember, authenticity is key!
Write a compelling headline that addresses your audience's biggest challenge or desire and how you can help.
What design would work well for your hero section?
If you are feeling stuck or want some guidance, please get in touch.
Ready to Make Your Hero Section Shine?
Creating the perfect hero section is part science, part art, and requires a deep understanding of your unique brand and dream clients. It’s about finding the sweet spot where visual appeal meets heart-centred communication while staying true to the essence of your business.
By designing a hero section that captures attention and fosters a meaningful connection, you can align your messaging with your clients' values, enhancing engagement, building trust, and driving conversions effectively.
What To Do Now?
If you feel overwhelmed or unsure where to start, I'm here to help! As your brand strategist and web designer, I'd love to work closely with you to craft a standout, strategic website that captures attention and communicates your unique value - without the stress or tech headaches.
Let's make sure your hero section is working its socks off, guiding your dream clients straight to your virtual doorstep!
Here's to creating unforgettable first impressions that lead to beautiful connections and thriving businesses! 💖✨
If you prefer, contact me via email.
Or, click the button below to schedule an informal, no-pressure online chat 😊 to ask any questions and to share your vision and website goals.
Thanks 🌟 for being here, and if you’d like more tips, tools, and tricks [without the overwhelm], to help YOU grow your small business, I’d love to have you join my twice-monthly HeartBiz 💌 Letter.
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