If the digital world is home to your content and you haven’t tried WordPress, you’re missing out.
A popular tool, WordPress allows users to create their website with ease. It’s no surprise that this became the go-to for most online users, with its effortless coding and design features.
Yet, despite being developed for the not-so-savvy, the interface can be quite intimidating. But if it’s your first time trying it out, don’t fret. Everyone starts as a beginner.
Tips For WordPress Beginners
Here are five essential tips to help you efficiently set up your WordPress account.
1. Pick a clean and simple theme
Your website’s theme is the first thing people will notice when they open your page. And their first impression is the ultimate decision driver: whether to stay on the page or exit the window.
When designing, we suggest going for a clean and simple theme. Aim for visually appealing yet easy on the eyes. This will allow your visitors to focus on your content.
2. Limit your plugins
Plugins are an excellent way to add functions to your website that aren’t readily available in WordPress, such as contact forms or live chats. It’s tempting to install every cool widget you find, but it’s best not to. Plugins consume code space and may slow your website down. Choose only the ones that are genuinely important for your business goals.
Plugins also carry security risks, since anyone can build one. Before installing, check online forums for reviews on the developer’s credibility.
3. Clean up your permalinks
When you post content, WordPress automatically generates a string of random characters and assigns that as your permanent link. Most of the time these look cluttered in the URL bar, and default permalinks aren’t SEO-friendly either.
Try using related words to compose your permalink instead. A neat URL is a good indication of a well-maintained website. You can change this structure under Settings in WordPress. For the best SEO results, use the Post Name setting.
4. Set featured images for every blog post
Featured images are thumbnail images that appear on your blog posts and wherever you link them, such as on other websites or social media platforms. It always helps to set a featured image for every post you publish.
Aside from making your content more visual and attractive to readers, your overall site will look more polished and current. This encourages readers to browse and explore further.
5. Add analytics tools
Analytics tools help you check your website’s performance and other breakdowns, such as traffic sources. They give you insight into how visitors interact with your site and which pages are actually working.
If you’re planning to use your website for business, analytics tools are a wise investment. The easiest place to start is Google Analytics, which lets you view the data straight from your dashboard.
Wrapping Up
Now that we’ve laid all this out, you’re ready to start building your website with WordPress. Keep these five tips in mind and you’ll get a lot more out of the platform from day one.
