The header of an ecommerce website is more than just a visual element at the top of the page; it's the starting point of the customer's journey. But what information should you include here? And why? Let’s explore the key components that turn a simple header into a powerful sales tool.
What is a header on a website?
The website header is one of the most important elements of any online platform, especially for ecommerce websites. It typically appears at the top of each page and serves as a central hub for navigation and branding.
A header is often the first thing users interact with, meaning it plays a pivotal role in creating a positive first impression. It includes key components like the logo, navigation bar, search bar, and other essential elements that allow visitors to easily explore the site and access products or services.
What goes above a website header?
Often, features like promotional banners, notifications, and announcements are placed above the header. These elements help draw attention to important updates such as sales, special offers, or shipping deals. While not always part of the header, these components can enhance user engagement by providing visitors with timely, relevant information as soon as they land on the site. These added elements can create a sense of urgency, which often leads to increased conversions.
What needs to be in the header?
Your website header must include several key elements to ensure customers can navigate seamlessly, find products easily, and take action quickly.
Branding components
Your logo is perhaps the most important branding element to include in the header of your website. It reinforces your ecommerce business identity and helps customers instantly recognize your site. You should place your logo in a prominent position, typically in the top left corner, where users naturally expect to see it. Additionally, using consistent colors, fonts, and design elements in the header can further strengthen your brand's identity.
Navigation and user-friendly menus
One primary purpose of a website header is to offer users intuitive navigation. The header should feature a clear and organized navigation bar that provides links to essential pages such as product categories, customer service, and other key sections.
Simplified, dropdown-style menus can ensure users don’t feel overwhelmed by too many options. Additionally, make sure that the navigation structure is easy to understand, allowing customers to find what they're looking for without frustration.
Search functionality
By prominently placing a search bar in the header, you make it easy for visitors to quickly find specific products or information without navigating through the entire site. Offering advanced search options—such as filters by category, price, or customer ratings—can further enhance the user experience. A functional and accessible search tool helps reduce friction and improve conversion rates, ensuring users can quickly locate what they're looking for.
Calls-to-Action (CTAs)
CTAs are critical for driving actions on an ecommerce website. These should be placed strategically within the header to encourage visitors to take specific actions, such as adding items to the cart or checking out. Common CTAs in the header could include, “Shop Now,” “Sign Up for Newsletter,” or “View Cart.” Use contrasting colors or bold text to make these CTAs noticeable and accessible to visitors.
Login and sign-up buttons
Having login and sign-up buttons in the header makes it easier for repeat customers to access their accounts and for new customers to register. These elements should be clearly labeled and easily accessible.
For instance, a "Sign In" button could be placed in the upper right corner of the header, with a “Create Account” link next to it. This would enhance usability and encourage engagement by allowing users to track their orders, save wish lists, and enjoy a personalized experience.
Cart and checkout icons
An ecommerce site’s header should also prominently feature a shopping cart icon with a dynamic cart counter. This allows users to quickly view the items in their cart and proceed to checkout. An ecommerce site’s header should also feature a shopping cart icon with a live counter that updates in real time. A visible, easy-to-access cart decreases purchase hesitancy and makes the checkout process more efficient.
Best practices for ecommerce headers
To create a truly effective ecommerce header, consider the following best practices:
- SEO Best Practices: Incorporate relevant keywords related to your services, products, or customers in your header to improve your site's SEO performance. Using keywords in the navigation menu can also help improve rankings for those terms.
- Content Hierarchy: Ensure that the most important information and actions are placed in the most prominent positions, such as the top of the header. Prioritize your brand logo, navigation menu, search bar, and CTAs.
- Mobile Optimization: With more users shopping on mobile devices, it’s essential to ensure your ecommerce header is fully responsive. This means all the components, like the navigation menu and CTA, are easily accessible and legible on smaller screens.
Examples of effective ecommerce headers
An example of an effective ecommerce header is one where the logo, navigation, and search functionality are visible and well-placed, with CTAs such as “Shop Now” or “Sign Up” easily accessible.
Websites like Samsung and Stanley have mastered this, with intuitive navigation and easily recognizable branding. Their headers are optimized for both desktop and mobile, ensuring a seamless user experience.
Elevate your ecommerce strategy with the perfect header
A strong website header is the foundation of impactful ecommerce branding and a building block for strong conversions. When crafted thoughtfully with elements like a clear logo, intuitive menus, robust search functionality, and attention-grabbing CTAs, it becomes a driving force for better user experience and sales performance. Pair these essential components with mobile responsiveness and SEO best practices to ensure your website stands out.
VTEX brings powerful tools to the table that let you customize your header effortlessly, creating a smooth, engaging navigation experience. With VTEX, you can integrate dynamic elements like personalized banners and real-time promotions directly into your header.
Discover how VTEX can transform your online store with innovative ecommerce solutions tailored to your business needs.