When a web visitor clicks on the link of your website, he or she expects to land on a specific page for information. Instead, a 404-error page greets that person! How depressing! When this happens, visitors will bounce and never to return because the information is missing. Then, that does not mean there is no solution to the problem and you lose on conversions. There are ways to use a 404-error page effectively to generate sales. You might be wondering how.

According to an article published on Edition.cnn.com, these days, webmasters try to use their creativity when it comes to 404 pages. Here are some of the best ways to make such a page a saleable:

Turn a 404 page into a lead magnet

When it comes to lead magnet, it is the lifeline of any online business. Usually, visitors do not convert when they land on your website for the first time. They find about your products or services from a blog post and even if they like the content, they do not divulge any details. It implies that you should use a lead magnet at some point in time to get the email addresses. As far as lead magnets are concerned, they are in different sizes and shapes. A lead magnet could be anything valuable for your customers.

An e-book could be an ideal lead magnet for your targeted audience, who requires information on SEO. You can transform your 404 pages into a lead magnet to capture important email addresses, convert those web visitors into loyal clients, and ensure sales. Now that you know what is a 404 page and how you can make it saleable, try capturing more emails, prospects, and boost sales.

Make the 404 pages a search box

The best way to ensure that visitors do not leave your 404 pages is by providing them with the choice of searching for information from your site. All you need to do is include a search box tool on a 404 page to stop visitors from bouncing back to Google (News - Alert) immediately. Did you know that Mailchimp is using the same strategy to retain 404 visitors on their site?

Yet another benefit of on-site searching is data, implying you can nurture loads of information from a 404-error page. The ideal way to make the most out of the searches is by turning these into links on your 404 web page. For example, if you discover a couple of popular terms, turn these into links on your error page so that users click right away.

Tempt visitors with coupons when they try to exit

The best way to prevent bounce rates on 404 pages is by offering some incentives when visitors try to leave the site. It will keep them on your website. This way, there is a possibility that an insignificant two percent will convert from the 404 pages. Though the conversion is less, you still get two percent and not see people leaving your site immediately.

Conclusion

The 404 pages are common and you are not the sole one dealing with the same. Use these tips to make your page sell and avoid bounce backs.