The minimalist’s home page
Minimalism makes me swoon.
Less is better when it comes to everything except books (you can never have too many books).
I love empty spaces, clean lines and cool colours.
But I have kids and they come with a LOT of stuff (no matter how much you throw away!) So at least for now, I’m a minimalist dreamer.
If your BRAND is minimalist you might look at ALL the things you can do with your home page and ask…
What’s essential?
What’s the absolute bare minimum I can get away with?
This post is for you…from my wannabe minimalist heart to yours.
Every home page (even the most minimal) needs 4 things
1. core message
2. what you do/who you are statement
3. at least one opt-in
4. social links
Core Message
Your core message deserves to be above-the-fold, centre stage because THIS is what you’re all about. We covered your core message over here. [INSERT LINK]
It’s a simple (read elegant) sentence that sums up what you’re all bout, has the ability to evolve with your brand and guides decision-making.
What you do/ who you are statement
When someone arrives at your home page they need to know they’re in the RIGHT PLACE. And they need to know right away. Because who has the time to click around wondering if this site even has what you’re looking for?
Which means you NEED to say…
- who you are
- what you do
- who you serve
- why you do this thing
- where you do it (if you’re location dependent)
Bonus: what you DON’T DO or you’re NOT about
That doesn’t mean you need to say this in a boring, cliched, elevator-pitchy kinda way (please don’t). Get creative and let your personality shine through. Don’t forget to weave in your brand values and capture your brand archetype vibe.
This info needs to be near the top so we can decide quickly we’re in the right spot (+ it’s good for your SEO).
Don’t forget you also need to know where you want them to go next and include a button to take them there.
Opt-in
Every home page MUST (must, must, must) include at least ONE opt-in.
I’m not here to tell you ALL THE REASONS you need to grow your email list and ALL the benefits of email marketing you can Google it.
But having a list of people who have raised their hand (by entering their email) and said, “I’m down for this ride. I wanna know your best advice and your latest creations.” that just makes sense, doesn’t it?
Your minimalist homepage needs an opt-in.
That can be an opt-in for your general email list.
Or it can be an opt-in for your freebie.
Or both.
But giving people an easy, low-stakes way to stay connected to you while your relationship grows and they get to know/like/trust you is not something you can skip.
Of course, where you take the conversation from there is up to you.
PSA: your opt-in needs to say more than “let’s stay in touch” which is exactly the kind of thing you say to someone at your high school reunion when you don’t have any intention of ever speaking to them again.
Give your soon-to-be clients an irresistible reason to allow you into the sanctity of their inbox. Then, never take that permission for granted.
Social Links
The final thing to include on even the most minimal of websites are your social links. You definitely don’t have to stretch your minimalist heart by trying to show up everywhere just pick a few favourite places and show up consistently.
Recap, the 4 things you MUST include on even the most minimal website are
- your core brand message
- who you are/what you do/ who you serve statement
- an opt-in (email, freebie or both)
- social links
If you’re building your website for the first time this is also a great place to start and something you can add to as your business grows.
I’m talking home pages all month long (May 2021) on Instagram so come check it out @heartlinesstudio
