In today's digital world, we only have a few seconds to grab a user's attention. It usually takes less than two seconds for a person to decide whether to click on a link. In this context, links are the first and most important filter of trust. Many people mistakenly believe that user experience (UX) is limited to the aesthetics of buttons or the smoothness of animations. However, even before a user reaches your site, a long, confusing link in an email or on an advertising banner can ruin the whole experience. The link is the first point of contact that forms the first impression.
What makes a link “clickable” and reliable?
A “clickable” link is not just one that has been clicked on. It is a link that is trusted. Such a link has several key characteristics:
- It is short: Long and clumsy URLs are off-putting.
- It is understandable: It should be clear at first glance where the link leads.
- It doesn't look like spam or phishing: Strange characters or unfamiliar domains raise suspicion.
- It contains a brand or keyword: This increases recognition and trust.
- It leads exactly where it promises: Users quickly lose trust in resources that deceive their expectations.
Advantages of short branded links
Tests show that short branded URLs receive up to 34% more clicks than standard, long links. This is not surprising, as such links are much more convenient to use: they are easier to insert into SMS messages, post on social networks, or even print on product packaging.
UX is not only about convenience, but also about a sense of control. When a user sees a clean and understandable link, such as yourbrand.surl.li/offer2024, they immediately understand where they will go after clicking. This significantly reduces anxiety and increases the likelihood of interaction with your content.
Services such as Surl.li exist for this very purpose, allowing you to create short, manageable links with built-in analytics, without any technical complications.
Your link is part of the UX
In today's world, where every click counts, your URL is an integral part of the overall user experience. If your link looks confident, reliable, and professional, users are more likely to click on it. Don't underestimate the power of a short, clear, and trusted link — it's the key to a successful first contact with your audience.