"Click Here": The Power, Pitfalls, and Potential of the Internet’s Most Common Call-to-Action
"Click Here": The Power, Pitfalls, and Potential of the Internet’s Most Common Call-to-Action
Blog Article
In the vast and ever-expanding world of the internet, few phrases have had the lasting influence and ubiquitous presence of “click here.” Whether you're browsing an e-commerce site, reading a blog, or checking your email click here, chances are you’ve encountered—and probably acted on—this simple yet powerful phrase. But what makes “click here” so common, and is it always the best choice for engaging users? In this article, we’ll delve into the history, effectiveness, criticisms, and best practices surrounding this famous call-to-action (CTA).
The Origins of “Click Here”
The term “click here” emerged in the early days of the internet, a time when most users were still becoming familiar with the concept of hyperlinks. The internet in the 1990s and early 2000s was less intuitive than it is today, so designers and developers needed to guide users explicitly. Telling someone to “click here” made sense when digital literacy was lower, and web browsing was still a relatively new experience.
Even today, decades later, “click here” remains a go-to call-to-action because of its simplicity and clarity. It leaves no ambiguity about what the user is supposed to do. But does this old-school approach still work effectively?
Why "Click Here" Still Works
There’s a reason “click here” is so widely used: it gets results. It's action-oriented, easy to understand, and hard to misinterpret. In digital marketing and web design, the goal is often to guide users toward a specific action, whether that’s signing up for a newsletter, downloading a resource, or making a purchase. A phrase like “click here” provides a direct and simple prompt to do just that.
According to various usability studies, users respond well to clear instructions. Vague or overly creative language may seem appealing, but it often underperforms when compared to straightforward CTAs. “Click here” may not be flashy, but it’s effective, especially when placed in a visually prominent location and paired with compelling content.
The SEO Perspective: Is "Click Here" Good for Search Engines?
From a search engine optimization (SEO) standpoint, however, the story gets more nuanced.
When you use anchor text—the clickable text in a hyperlink—Google and other search engines use it as a signal to understand the content of the linked page. If your link just says “click here,” it doesn’t give any meaningful context. For example, instead of:
Click here to learn more about our organic food products.
It’s better to write:
Learn more about our organic food products.
This second version not only improves accessibility and readability but also helps search engines understand what the linked page is about. Overusing “click here” can dilute your SEO efforts by wasting valuable anchor text opportunities.
Accessibility Matters: A User-Centered View
Accessibility is another reason why web designers and content creators are moving away from generic phrases like “click here.” People using screen readers or other assistive technologies rely heavily on clear and descriptive links to navigate content. When someone is using a screen reader, hearing “click here” over and over again doesn’t provide enough context.
A more accessible approach would be to use descriptive link text that tells the user what they’re clicking on:
Read our full guide on how to choose the right protein supplement.
This provides valuable context and enhances the user experience for everyone—not just those with disabilities.
When Is It Okay to Use "Click Here"?
Despite the criticisms, “click here” isn’t inherently bad. In fact, in some contexts, it’s not only acceptable but potentially effective. For example:
Email marketing: When space is limited and clarity is essential, “click here” can be a clear and concise prompt.
Direct response campaigns: If the goal is simply to drive action and not worry about SEO or long-term content value, the phrase might work well.
Tutorials or onboarding: In situations where users need specific guidance, “click here” can serve as a helpful instructional cue.
The key is to use it strategically, not automatically.
Alternatives to "Click Here"
If you're looking to diversify your CTAs and move beyond “click here,” there are plenty of engaging alternatives depending on the context and tone of your content. Some effective examples include:
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These alternatives are often more descriptive and better for SEO. They give users a reason to act and clarify what they’ll get when they do.
Best Practices for Using “Click Here”
If you choose to use “click here,” consider these best practices to make the most of it:
Pair it with context: Avoid using “click here” in isolation. Add supporting information around the link so users know what to expect.
Make it visually distinct: Use color, underline, or button styling to make links stand out without relying solely on the text.
Test alternatives: Use A/B testing tools to compare “click here” with other CTAs to see what performs better with your specific audience.
Consider the medium: What works in an email might not work on a landing page. Adapt your CTA based on the platform and audience.
Don’t overuse it: Variety matters. Too many “click here” links can look spammy and undermine your credibility.
Conclusion: Rethinking “Click Here”
“Click here” is a relic of the internet’s early days, but it still holds value—when used wisely. Its clarity and simplicity make it a useful tool in many situations, but overuse or poor implementation can harm accessibility, SEO, and user experience.
Modern web content demands a more strategic approach. If you're building a website, writing marketing copy, or developing email campaigns, you should consider alternatives to “click here” that offer greater context, improve discoverability, and provide a better overall experience.
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