How a Custom 404 Error Page Protects Your Website from Lost Traffic

The 404 error page is the "not found" message your visitors see when clicking on a broken or missing link. This usually happens if there's a link on your website to pages or content you don't have anymore. When someone visits this page, they will likely hit the back button and leave your website - never to return. It would be best if you took immediate action to prevent this from happening. Visitors who click on links that lead nowhere may not return to your site. 

Typically, the 404 error appears as a blank page or an error message. However, with some creativity and effort, you can make lemonade out of a lemon. 

How? The answer is simple, create a custom 404 page!

Because we are in the business of developing websites, we have collected some of our favorite custom 404 pages examples to illustrate the point.

What exactly makes a great custom 404 page? It's simple — a seamless and memorable experience that keeps your visitors engaged, not distracted. Here are some other reasons why a custom 404 page is valuable: 

• Reassurance - A custom 404 error page signals to visitors that they are in the right place, but the page is not active. A good 404 error page and a search box will offer links to resolve the issue.
• Consistency - With a custom 404 error page, a brand can be consistent with website representation. Generic 404 pages are unbranded and can present a jarring experience to a website visitor.
• Reduces bounce rate - When visitors see a custom 404 error page, they're more likely to stay on the website if given alternative actions. The custom error page helps to encourage the visitor to remain on the website rather than clicking back on the search engines.
• Customizable - Turn the custom 404 error page into an opportunity for conversions. These can be customized and updated regularly. For example, a brand could add a special offer or a CTA that takes a visitor through to a lead magnet.
• Shareable - Creating a memorable custom 404 error page allows a brand to gain recognition outside its website. An amused visitor may share the brand on social media with their followers by injecting a little humor or self-deprecation.

Creating a custom 404 page will improve your SEO and help you recover lost traffic. And the best part? It's easy to set up. All you must do is create an HTML template that fits your website's design. Then, after deciding how to word your 404 error message, upload it onto your server or Google Drive. Finally, link the appropriate pages to the custom 404 file. From then on, whenever anyone clicks on a broken link, they will see your custom 404 error page instead of a blank one.

Since we are in the business of building websites, we can help create a custom 404 for you. Fill out the form below to connect.