Six Tips for Hyperlinks
People are busy, but we want them to take time to read our newsletter. One way to create reader interest is to incorporate hyperlinks into the newsletter articles.
When people review a web page or email newsletter, one of the first things they tend to do is scan. They look for headlines, colored or bold text and hyperlinks. If your hyperlinks are useful, you can catch the readers' attention. If there are too many hyperlinks or the links are not related to the article, the reader will quickly lose interest.
The following are hyperlink tips:
Don't lose 'em. Always have your hyperlinks open up a separate window so you don't lose your reader when they close the link.
Use color to your advantage. Use one color to signify an unclicked link and another color to show that the hyperlink has been clicked. Color change is a simple detail that makes your content easier to navigate.
Be creative. You don't necessarily need to underline a hyperlink. If most of your text is black, you can show links through color or bold formats. Use font formats to find creative ways to show your hyperlinks.
Be descriptive. The most intuitive links don't say "click here" but instead say something descriptive such as "Learn more about our software." By placing the hyperlink on the word "software" it is clear that the focus of the hyperlink will be on software. In addition, the hyperlink does not force your readers into the mechanics of your content. An easy way to remember this rule is to avoid hyperlinking a verb.
Keep it brief. The text of your hyperlink should use the least amount of words as possible while still explaining the link. Instead of placing the hyperlink on "Download our new online fact sheets" shorten the hyperlink to "Download our new online fact sheets." This makes it clear that the hyperlink is to the fact sheets.
Use only helpful links. Because hyperlinks are so simple to add, it is easy to overuse hyperlinks. Avoid the urge to add a hyperlink to every sentence. Only use hyperlinks to enhance your information.
Hyperlinks help you drive readers to specific areas. While hyperlinks may seem like a small detail, when done right, they can enhance articles – and that's always a good thing! For additional assistance with hyperlinks, article content and email newsletters, visit Proven Systems. |
