Creating the perfect 404 page
by Startacus Admin
Any semi-regular internet user will have come across what is known as a 404 error page at some point or another. These appear as a result of the
websites server being unable to retrieve the requested information, usually due to someone clicking a dead or broken link.
While they have been around for a while, many websites have started to take advantage of these pages. They are a result of something go wrong, but businesses have realised that they’re an opportunity to build a greater relationship with their customers.
Staying helpful
One of the most important things to do with a 404 page is to ensure that you’re not driving traffic away to another site. A plain 404 page is of no help, but it’s very easy to turn the broken link into something much more helpful.
Adding links to your homepage, other popular articles and including a search bar will provide your customer with a means by which to go forward and find what they need, rather than forcing them to go back or leave the site altogether.
Having a laugh
A great way to reach customers online is to make them laugh. Using humour on a 404 page doesn’t just amuse the customer but helps to build a relationship that may not be possible on other pages showing products, services or other serious information.
A funny picture, acknowledgment of the error in a light hearted manner and even friendly teasing can result in a really successful 404 page. Along with building a relationship, it will also provide comfort to those internet users who may become confused by a 404 page.
Stay on brand
Your businesses voice is unique and, while you will undoubtedly present it throughout the rest of the website, it’s important to remember that voice in the development of a 404 page. Staying on brand will reaffirm the voice and keep things flowing.
Cuoma 404
Virgin Holidays Cruises
Subscribe to our newsletter
If you would like to receive our startup themed newsletter, full of the latest startup opportunities, events, news, stories, tips and advice, then sign up here.
Vasile Foca, co-founder and managing partner at Talis Capital outlines why the Chancellor's measures are not enough to tackle the skills deficit and social security issues
Ambition, a pre-accelerator programme run by LEO Donegal and NDRC launches to help early-stage female founders from Donegal take business ideas from concept to pitch
ATI Boeing Accelerator, the 3 month programme supporting and backing startups in the UK aerospace industry announces Rolls-Royce as partner for its second cohort
.jpg)
Amy Robinson, Senior Brand Development Manager at Esendex shares her tips on why customer feedback is vital for businesses in this economy
Pingza is an innovative new app that “uncorks the complex world of wine for amateur and expert alike”...
.jpeg)
Jayne Harrison, Head of Employment Law at Richard Nelson LLP shares some thoughts on striking the balance between working from home or returning to the office
Female founder or woman in business, looking to start, grow or scale a business in NI? Here are a few of the resources, organisations and networks that should help
Artificial Intelligence is a powerful tool for business owners and marketing - here is the lowdown on what AI is, how to use it and its future in business
Some tips and advice on what companies should do and how they can differentiate their service for verified and unverified customers
Mountain Technologies, the innovative Northern Ireland-based startup secures investment to launch and market its connected ski pass system
Published on: 3rd December 2013
.png)
If you would like to enable commenting via your Startacus account, please enable Disqus functionality in your Account Settings.
- VC Firm Talis Capital critique Rishi Sunak's Job Support Scheme 25th Sep 2020 Vasile Foca, co-founder and managing partner at Talis Capital outlines why the Chancellor's measures are not enough to tackle the skills deficit and social security issues
- Ambition, a new pre-accelerator programme for female entrepreneurs in Donegal launches 25th Sep 2020 Ambition, a pre-accelerator programme run by LEO Donegal and NDRC launches to help early-stage female founders from Donegal take business ideas from concept to pitch
- Rolls-Royce joins the ATI Boeing Accelerator as Partner 24th Sep 2020 ATI Boeing Accelerator, the 3 month programme supporting and backing startups in the UK aerospace industry announces Rolls-Royce as partner for its second cohort
- Logistics and Warehousing Focused Startups Wanted for Wincanton Innovation Lab 16th Sep 2020 Got a startup that can offer innovative solutions for the logistics sector? The third edition of Wincanton's innovation programme W² Labs is now open for entries
