People buy from sources they like and trust. How do you build these qualities into a website so people feel comfortable enough to buy? Here are seven proven tactics that are used on almost every successful website.

1. Call to Action - Every successful website has a well defined call to action. This is a predetermined goal or action that we want our website visitors to take once they have arrived at our site. The website has to communicate these goals clearly and consistently. The following are good examples:
   - Call today for a free consultation
   - Start your free trial today
   - Free delivery with every purchase over $120
   Helpful Tip: Avoid choice overload; too many choices equals lower sales

2. People Imagery - Include the "human element" on your website page design. Smiling faces communicate a sense of customer service as well as build trust. A well placed graphic of a person or people that is relevant to your industry helps build trust and confidence immediately.

3. Credit Card Logos - Most businesses today take credit cards as payment even if their website is not a shopping cart. The logos of Visa/American Express placed at the top and bottom of a site instill buying confidence in your company.

4. Contact information - such as a phone number needs to be placed at the top of the site. This again builds confidence on a subconscious level. People like to know that they can reach your company easily if there is an issue with a transaction.

5. Guarantees, warranties, and cancelation policies - make sure the link to this information is visually noticeable on the homepage. This minimizes the level of risk perception in the buyers mind.

6. Secure Checkout Logos - ensure that the secure payment logo or image is visible. Online shoppers look for this indication before using a credit card.

7. Shipping Information - do your best to provide and link to an explanation of your policy regarding shipping and delivery. When appropriate use a graphic such as the UPS or FedEx log to establish brand familiarity and trust.

The art of converting website visitors to customers is a very complex science. No two websites are the same. It takes a lot of time and effort to get a website optimized for success. If you have any questions or would like additional information on how to increase the performance of your website, contact our web design company at www.proteusdesignstudio.com.