The website header is the first thing visitors see when they come to your website. It's like the welcome mat for your home, setting the tone for the rest of the experience. Keep reading to learn how to create a website header that will keep visitors engaged and coming back for more!
1. Website Headers Fundamentals
Here’s a basic overview of website headers, including the different types of header tags and what elements you should include in yours.
By investing in a well-designed header, you're laying the foundation for a user-friendly and engaging website that effectively communicates your brand and guides visitors towards your desired actions. Keep reading to to find out what your website header should look like.
2. What exactly is a website header
Website headers are one of the most important elements of your website. They are the first thing visitors see, and they can be a key factor in whether or not they stay.
A highly effective header captures attention, communicates your message, and helps visitors find what they are looking for.
Keep reading to explore in detail the essential elements that you need to include, along with tips on how to use them to create a great first impression.
3. What to include in your website header
A website header includes a logo, navigation links, a search bar, and other optional elements like social media buttons, a shopping cart, or a login field.
Each element should be carefully designed to be clear, concise, and easy to use so that visitors can quickly and easily find what they need.
3.1 Logo
The logo is the most important visual element in your website, as a good logo presents the brand identity and reflects on the company’s values.
- Make it large enough to be easily recognizable.
- Make it contrast with the background so that it stands out.
3.2 Navigation bar
The navigation bar should include links to the most important pages on your website, such as your homepage, About page, contact page, and product pages.
- Make it clear and concise, use short words and strong phrases.
- Make it organized in a way that makes sense for your visitors.
3.3 Search bar
Adding a search bar is a great way to help visitors find the information they are looking for quickly and easily.
- Make it visible by placing it in a prominent location.
- Make it easy to use and responsive on all devices, from computers to smartphones.
3.4 Shopping cart
Shopping carts are a must-have for e-commerce websites, allowing shoppers to add items to their cart and checkout without having to leave the website.
- Make it easy to find and use, with clear labels and buttons...
- Make it show the total number of items and the total price.
3.5 Social media buttons
Social media buttons are a great way to connect with your customers and allow them to share your content with their friends and followers.
- Make it relevant to your target audience.
- Make it up-to-date with the latest designs and features.
3.6 Login Field
The login field is only necessary if your website requires registration to access certain content.
- Make it secure and easy to use.
- Make it visible by placing it in a prominent location.
3.7 CTA
CTAs are buttons or links that encourage visitors to take action. They can increase conversions and the number of subscribers.
- Make it relevant to the content of your website.
- Make it persuasive enough to get visitors to take action.
4. Website header examples
When it comes to website headers, there’s no ‘one-fits-all’ solution. Choose yours based on your specific needs and goals.
Do you want a header that’s always there for you, no matter how far you scroll? Or do you want a header that’s always changing and adapting to the situation? Maybe you want one that takes the entire screen or is stripped down to the essentials.
Scroll down to be inspired by some brilliant examples of highly effective website headers!
4.2 Fixed website header example
- Stays in place at the top of the screen when you scroll down the page
- Typically includes a logo, navigation links, and a search bar
Tesla
Tesla's fixed header features the company's logo, a search bar, and a few navigation links.
Nike
Nike's fixed header is similar to Tesla's, but it also includes CTA.
The New York Times
The New York Times' fixed header is more complex than Tesla's or Nike's, but it still provides users with all the information they need to navigate the website.
4.3 Sticky website header example
- Only sticks to the top of the screen when you scroll past a certain point
- Allows you to keep the important information in view as you scroll down
Google's sticky header is a good example of how to use a sticky header to improve the user experience. The logo is large and prominently displayed, making it easy for users to identify the website.
Webflow
Webflow's sticky header is similar to Google's, but it also includes a button that allows users to sign up for a free trial and contact the sales team.
Youtube
YouTube’s header is a great way to keep users engaged and to encourage them to watch more videos.
4.4 Dynamic website header example
- Changes based on your actions or the content of the page
- A great way to personalize visitor’s experience
Netflix
Netflix's header changes depending on your current activity. If you are watching a movie, the header will show the title of the movie and the time remaining. If you are browsing for movies, the header will show recommendations based on your viewing history.
ESPN
ESPN's dynamic header changes depending on the current sporting event. If you are watching a live game, the header will show the score, time remaining, and other relevant information. If you are browsing for highlights, the header will show a list of the latest stories.
4.5 Minimal website header example
- Stripped down to the essentials
- A great way to create a clean and uncluttered look of your website
Vogue
Vogue’s header is a great example of how to create a minimal header that is still functional and effective.
Reddit's minimal header is even more stripped down than Vogue's. This is a great example of how to create a minimal header that is still user-friendly.
Slack
Slack is a great example of how to add a bit of personality to a minimal header. The buttons are colorful and eye-catching, and they make it easy for users to take action.
4.6 Full-screen website header example
- Takes up the entire screen
- Typically used on landing pages
Adobe
This is a great way to get users excited about your products and services.
Disney Plus
Disney Plus's full-screen header is another great example of how to use a full-screen header to showcase your content.
Canva
This full-screen header is a great way to introduce users to Canva and to encourage them to try it out.
5. Website header best practices in 2023
Here are some of the latest trends for designing an attention-grabbing and persuasive website header:
Use high-quality images
Images are a great way to grab attention and make your website more visually appealing. They should be high-resolution, professionally shot, and engaging.
Test your header
Once you've designed your website's header, don't forget to test it to make sure it's effective. Ask users for feedback and observe them as they interact with your header.
Make it responsive
Make sure your website’s header looks good on all devices, including desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
Keep it updated
Your header should be updated regularly with new content and information. This will help keep your website fresh and engaging.
6. Final words
So, there you have it! Those are the basics of the website headers. As you can see, there’s a lot of work to be done, but don’t worry, you don’t have to do it all on your own.
If you're still not sure how to design a website header, just ask us! We're always happy to help. As a Web Design and Webflow Development agency, we've designed headers for a wide range of businesses, from small businesses to large corporations.
Why not take a look at some of Creative Corner's past projects? We're sure you'll find something that inspires you!
