A call to action (CTA) is necessary if you want to drive customers from your blog posts to your website. They can direct traffic to your website, generate conversions and increase social media chatter about your business. What is the point of spending all that time writing posts for your audience if you aren’t able to convert the leads at some point? Your well-constructed call to action, is the perfect way to do just that.

It must be highly visible

If you are going to add a call to action then it must be easy to see. Placing it at the end of your blog post is a great idea as both scanners and readers are likely to see it. They may not read your blog post in its entirety, but at least, they will not miss your call to action which is an essential part of your overall marketing plan. Using a blend of imagery and text is a great way to ensure it doesn’t go unnoticed.

It must be enticing

If you are not tempting them in some way, then you will fail to convert any of your readers let alone get any visits to your website. Your call to action must be appealing in both quality and price. If you fail to engage them with your offer, then try something else which may interest them. What works for one, may not work for another. Remember to focus on the benefits your customers will receive – the “what’s in it for me” because that’s what drives the decision to click.

It must be relevant

If it is not relevant, then it is not useful. Consider offering a product like an e-book or white paper following a blog post on a similar subject. They are reading your blog post for a reason – either because they are interested or wish to learn more about the subject. What is bothering them? What problem do they want solved? What can you offer them that will help make their lives easier? Follow it up with something that will add even more value to them.

It must be easy to follow

There is no point presenting your readers with a call that action that feels like they have to jump through multiple hoops to earn. Subscribe now; click here; download now- all simple phrases that don’t require anything more than an email address or a click. Asking for more will have readers closing your website before you know it.

You could also choose to add a call to action that pops up as soon as people visit your website or even as a permanent fixture on the bottom or the right side of your landing page.

Some great examples of calls to action.

This is a pop up from Kathryn Hocking’s site. Why does it work? Just look at the value she’s offering in exchange for your details. If you’re into designing online courses, you can’t go past this offer.

This example comes from JeffGoin.com.  It works because it’s clear and simple, with no distractions.  The headline tells you what you will get and why, and the promise is captured in one line.

This example comes from Power Habits Academy. What I like about it is the bright orange button which demands attention and action. There is nothing else to distract from the call to action.  I also love the headline which is designed to arouse curiosity, and the use of the word ‘FREE’ is always an attention grabber!

This last example is from BenAngel.co. This works for a number of reasons. There is great value in the offer – an entire book for free.  The offer is supported by social proof (Facebook likes, the quote under the headline and the mention of 60,000 downloads!)  It’s also slightly naughty and irreverent, so it targets Ben’s market very well.

Remember, too, that a call to action does not have to be complicated or detailed.  Depending on your offer and the information you need to gather, a simple button may do the trick for you. There’s something about those buttons that give me an itchy clicking finger.

Not offering a call to action means you are missing out on connecting further with your readership. Growth, using a clever call to action, will be steady and manageable allowing you to learn more about your fans. Pique their curiosity and deliver on your promise. Test and test again and see what works best for your business.

What do you have of value that you could offer your readers?