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I’d like to share some ideas about what it means to have an interactive website. I frequently hear people emphasize the benefits of interactive sites, yet very seldom do I hear anyone explain what it means. What are the characteristics of an interactive site, and how does it differ from a site that is not interactive?
Let me begin with a silly, yet applicable analogy. Have you ever met someone for the first time, only to be bored stupid with a one-sided conversation? How does it feel when the new acquaintance shows absolutely no interest in you, yet proceeds with a lengthy monolog about his or her accomplishments, kids, education, etc? How long does it take you to tune-out and look for a quick escape?
You get the point? There’s not much interaction happening, and your natural reaction is to escape, get away, feign an injury, fabricate a cell-phone call.
On the other hand, the best way to engage another person is to show mutual interest, ask questions, seek information. We all want to be heard. The best communicator is someone that knows how to listen.
It’s worth considering how this same interactivity relates to your website. Don’t expect website visitors to be impressed by your self-proclaimed expertise, your awards, pictures of your office and staff, etc. Instead, consider ways to encourage the visitor to respond, ask questions, and seek additional information. Most likely the visitor came to your site because he’s seeking specific information. Give him a chance to tell you what he’s looking for, and provide him with a response that demonstrates your interest in him. Be interactive.
I’ll provide additional tips in upcoming posts.
