How to Design a Website Layout that Actually Generates Customers
But these days, it’s not just about looking good—it’s also about delivering a site that convinces visitors to stick around and take action.
The good news? Creating a high-converting website layout doesn’t have to be complicated or cost a fortune. With agencies like Flowpio offering everything from design tools to automation features, even small business owners can launch sleek, effective websites without hiring a whole team worth more than your annual revenue.
Step 1: Nail the Hero Section
The hero section is the first thing people see on your homepage, so it’s got to deliver the goods—fast. Think of it as your site’s elevator pitch: what do you do, why should anyone care, and what should they do next?
Here’s your hero section checklist:
Headline: Make it clear and specific (no, “innovative solutions” isn’t clear enough.
Subheadline: Add a bit more context or highlight a key benefit.
Call to Action (CTA): A dedicated button that tells them exactly what to do next.
Visuals: Use an image or video that reinforces your message, not distracts from it.
Keep it clean and easy to read. No one wants to squint through cluttered designs or text overlaid on some random stock photo.
Step 2: Show Social Proof
People don’t trust businesses—they trust other people. That’s why social proof is your new best friend. It isn’t just a nice touch; it’s a trust-building powerhouse. Social proof can include:
Customer Reviews: A solid five-star rating next to your CTA works wonders.
Client Images: Real people > generic stock photos. Let people see themselves in your business.
Logos: If you’ve worked with recognizable brands, flaunt them.
For example, a fitness coach could show a before-and-after pic of a happy client and a glowing testimonial that says, “Thanks to this program, I can finally see my abs!” Instant credibility.
For new businesses, social proof doesn’t have to be testimonials. Try these:
Certifications: Display certifications or affiliations. Link to verification sources for added trust.
Example: “Our head barista is certified by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), ensuring top-quality coffee in every cup.”Interactive Content or Free Samples: Offer free resources to highlight your value.
Example: A taekwondo camp could offer a free virtual class showcasing beginner-friendly techniques to engage parents and kids. This gives viewers a taste of the camp’s energy and discipline.
Step 3: Use Multiple Client Images or Services
What this looks like:
Show a range of happy customers—young, old, male, female, etc.
Highlight multiple services you offer by using images that represent each one.
For example, a tutoring service could feature photos of students from different age groups, showing that their offerings cater to everyone, from elementary to high school students. school students.
Step 4: Add Secondary CTAs
Not everyone’s ready to click “Buy Now” the moment they land on your site. Adding a secondary CTA (like “Learn More” or “View Our Services”) can guide them further down the page and help them make a more informed decision. This works well when you’ve got multiple offerings or want to show off your results before asking for a commitment.
Take Flowpio’s example:
Primary CTA: “Book Now.” This is the direct ask—the action they most want their customers to take. It aligns with the main goal: closing the sale.
Secondary CTA: “Get a Free Demo.” This appeals to people who need a little more convincing. It provides value while moving visitors closer to the main goal.
Make both CTAs actionable and send them to unique landing pages or pop-ups—one for the main conversion and one for the “test the waters” crowd.
Landing Page of the Primary CTA
Overlay Pop-up of the Secondary CTA
Step 5: Simplify the Process for Busy Visitors
Some visitors just want to get to the point. If you’re in a service industry where speed matters (think locksmiths or plumbers), make it ridiculously easy for people to take action immediately.
Here’s how:
Place a headline and CTA right at the top of the page. A “Call Now” button at the top of a plumbing site would be perfect.
Add a short form. According to HubSpot’s study of 40,000+ landing pages, forms with 3 and 5 fields convert best, with conversion rates of 25% and 21%, respectively. Anything longer will drive away potential customers.
Step 6: Display Results with Data and Testimonials
Nothing screams “We know our stuff” like hard numbers and real success stories. Whether it’s the number of clients you’ve helped or measurable results, showcase them loud and proud.
For maximum conversions, stick to this formula:
State the result: “We’ve helped 500+ businesses grow their revenue by 30%.”
Add a testimonial or case study for credibility.
Finish strong with a CTA like, “Get Your Free Consultation.”
Step 7: Use Multiple Images for Visual Appeal
For businesses like photographers, designers, or event planners, visuals are everything. Your hero section should act as a mini-portfolio that immediately wows visitors.
Don’t stop at just one image:
Use a carousel to showcase variety. It is a rotating slideshow that lets visitors swipe or click through multiple images without leaving the page.
Try a grid layout to display multiple visuals at once.
For example, a wedding photographer could feature outdoor ceremonies, indoor receptions, and cultural traditions—all in one section—giving potential clients a glimpse of their versatility.
Step 8: Feature Your Services or Results Clearly
If you offer multiple services, make it painfully obvious what they are. Use icons and short, clear descriptions for each. Take Flowpio as an example—they nailed this by skipping jargon in favor of easy-to-understand benefits. Instead of saying “lead generation services,” they went with “Get More Leads.” For lead management? “Stay Organized.” You get the idea.
If the website layout allows (as in—it’s clean and not overwhelming), you can even add CTAs under each service, like a simple “Learn More.” Because let’s be honest, the goal is always action.
Step 9: Show a Clean, Simple Design
If you’re in a professional industry (law, finance, etc.), a clean and minimalist design can work wonders.
Your website isn’t just a digital business card—it’s your 24/7 salesperson. So treat it like one. Build a website layout that’s not just pretty but purposeful. Give visitors what they’re looking for: clarity, credibility, and a reason to stick around.
If you’re feeling stuck, consulting with web design experts like Flowpio can be a game-changer. They’ll help you get it right the first time, saving you headaches and delivering results faster.