Podcast Summary: Boosting Engagement with Effective Call-to-Action Buttons

Podcast Details:

• Title: Small Business Quick WINS w/ Jay Schwedelson Presented By Thryv
• Episode: Boosting Engagement with Effective Call-to-Action Buttons
• Release Date: November 21, 2024
• Host: Jay Schwedelson
• Presented By: Thryv

Introduction

In the episode titled "Boosting Engagement with Effective Call-to-Action Buttons," Jay Schwedelson delves into the often-overlooked yet crucial element of digital marketing: call-to-action (CTA) buttons. Jay emphasizes how these seemingly minor components can significantly influence user engagement across various platforms, including social media, emails, and websites.

Notable Quote:

“The littlest things can change the number of people that are engaging with your content or deciding to submit on your form or the actual words that you are putting on the buttons... have a massive impact.”
— Jay Schwedelson [00:56]

The Importance of CTA Buttons

Jay begins by highlighting the critical role CTA buttons play in driving user actions. Whether it's encouraging a sign-up, purchase, or form submission, the language and design of these buttons can make or break engagement rates.

Key Points:

• User Perception: Users subconsciously process CTA buttons, and their choices can be swayed by subtle differences.
• Common Mistakes: Generic terms like "Register," "Buy," or "Submit" often fail to inspire action and can hinder conversion rates.

Notable Quote:

“The words and phrases on those buttons have a massive impact.”
— Jay Schwedelson [00:56]

First-Person Language: A Game Changer

One of the standout strategies Jay discusses is the use of first-person language on CTA buttons. This approach personalizes the interaction, making users feel more involved and thus more likely to engage.

Strategy Breakdown:

• Increase in Click-Through Rates: Utilizing first-person language can boost click-through rates by over 28%.
• Examples:
  • Instead of "Buy Now," use "I Want My 20% Off."
  • Replace "Register" with "Save My Spot."
  • Change "Submit" to "Get My Free Quote."

Notable Quote:

“When your call to action buttons are written in first person... it increases click through rates by over 28%.”
— Jay Schwedelson [03:00]

Practical Applications Across Platforms

Jay provides actionable insights on how to implement effective CTA buttons across various digital touchpoints:

1. Emails:

   • Personalize the CTA to reflect the user's benefit. For instance, "I Want to Download the Guide" versus a generic "Download."

2. Social Media Posts:

   • Encourage users to take ownership of their actions with phrases like "I Want to Subscribe" instead of just "Subscribe."

3. Website Landing Pages:

   • Tailor CTAs to the specific offer or action. For example, "Get My Free Estimate" instead of simply "Submit."

Notable Quote:

“I want my free quote, give me my free estimate... that little extra nudge makes them feel a little bit more engaged in their subconscious.”
— Jay Schwedelson [05:30]

Reducing Bounce Rates with Optimized CTAs

Jay addresses the issue of high bounce rates on landing pages, attributing a significant portion to ineffective CTA buttons. By optimizing the language and presentation of these buttons, businesses can enhance user retention and conversion.

Actionable Tips:

• Analyze Analytics: Use tools like Google Analytics to identify pages with high bounce rates.
• Iterate and Test: Continuously experiment with different CTA phrases and designs to find what resonates best with the audience.
• Understand Human Nature: Recognize that user preferences and behaviors evolve, necessitating regular updates to CTA strategies.

Notable Quote:

“If you have an 80% bounce rate, that means 80 out of the hundred people... 80% of them said, you know what? I want out of here, I'm not interested.”
— Jay Schwedelson [06:30]

Continuous Improvement and Testing

Jay underscores the importance of iterative testing for CTA buttons. Relying on a single approach can lead to stagnation, especially as audience behaviors shift over time. Regularly updating and experimenting with CTA language ensures sustained engagement and conversion.

Key Takeaways:

• Never Set in Stone: Avoid sticking with one successful phrase indefinitely. What works today might not work tomorrow.
• Behavioral Adaptation: Stay attuned to changes in user behavior and preferences to keep CTAs effective.
• Small Changes, Big Impact: Minor tweaks in CTA wording can lead to substantial improvements in performance metrics.

Notable Quote:

“You have to always be iterating, always be changing, always be testing... because human nature is changing.”
— Jay Schwedelson [06:50]

Conclusion

Jay wraps up the episode by reiterating the significance of optimizing CTA buttons as a straightforward yet powerful strategy to boost engagement and conversions. By focusing on the language and presentation of these buttons, small businesses can achieve substantial improvements in their digital marketing efforts.

Final Thoughts:

• Attention to Detail: Small elements like CTA buttons can have outsized effects on overall performance.
• Empower Your Business: Implementing these strategies can lead to immediate and noticeable enhancements in business outcomes.

Notable Quote:

“Small changes, big impact, call to action buttons. Let's not be boring.”
— Jay Schwedelson [07:00]

Additional Resources

The episode is sponsored by Thryv, an all-in-one business management software designed to help small businesses reach more customers, stay organized, and get paid faster. Thryv offers solutions for managing workflows, teams, and client interactions across any device.

Call to Action:

• Explore Thryv: Visit thryv.com to discover how Thryv can support your business growth.

Listener Engagement

Jay encourages listeners to subscribe to the podcast for more actionable tips from top small business leaders and to leave a five-star review if they find value in the episodes. Additionally, securing a free account with Thryv’s Command Center is recommended to never miss a customer message again.

Final Quote:

“Thank you for being here for Small Business Quick Wins and we'll see you at the next one.”
— Jay Schwedelson [07:36]

Summary: This episode of Small Business Quick WINS provides valuable insights into enhancing user engagement through effective CTA buttons. By adopting first-person language and continuously testing and iterating, small businesses can significantly improve their conversion rates and overall digital marketing performance. Jay Schwedelson's practical advice offers actionable steps that listeners can implement immediately to drive remarkable business results.