404 Page Error - Page Not Found

Page 404 error is an HTTP response code that is displayed when a user tries to access a webpage that does not exist or has been removed. It can be frustrating for users who are looking for specific information on a website, but it can also be an opportunity for businesses to turn a negative experience into a positive one. In this article, we will explore how page 404 error can be used as an advantage.

Firstly, page 404 error provides an opportunity to engage with users in a unique way. Instead of a generic error message, businesses can create custom 404 pages that provide users with helpful information, such as links to popular pages on the website. Alternately, a search bar can be used to help the visitor find what they are searching for. This can be an opportunity to showcase the brand's personality and differentiate the business from competitors.

Secondly, page 404 error can be used to showcase related products or services. For example, if a user is looking for a specific product that is out of stock or discontinued, the 404 page can display related products that may be of interest to the user. This can increase the likelihood of the user making a purchase and can also increase the average order value by promoting complementary products.

Thirdly, page 404 error can be used to capture leads. By providing users with a form to fill out, businesses can collect contact information and follow up with users at a later time. This can be an opportunity to provide users with more information about the brand and its offerings, and can also help to build a database of potential customers.

Lastly, page 404 error can be used to improve search engine optimization (SEO). By optimizing the 404 page with relevant keywords and links, businesses can improve their website's overall SEO performance. This can help to improve search engine rankings and increase website traffic.

A few more points:

• Align the page with the rest of the websites branding
• Links for special offers
• Add a puzzle for them to solve
• Create a quiz for them to participate, so that you can capture their info
• Use illustrations that are engaging and detailed
• Allow the user to report the broken link with a contact form
• Use 301 redirect

Don'ts:

• Never redirect the 404 Page to the Homepage of your website, as Google may understand that the homepage is a soft 404 error.
• Ensure that the links work
• Delete webpages that are deprecated

How to add a 404 page to your web hosting server

• Add the 404 Page that you have created to the root directory of your website.
• Open the .htaccess file that is in the root directory. If there isn't a .htaccess file then create one.
• Add the record as "ErrorDocument 404/404.php" in the .htaccess file

In conclusion, page 404 error may seem like a negative experience for users, but it can also be used as an opportunity for businesses to engage with users in a unique way, promote related products, capture leads, and improve SEO. By creating a custom 404 page that provides value to users, businesses can turn a negative experience into a positive one and build stronger relationships with their customers.

REMEMBER
Something's moving behind the big '404',
And chances are the user will hang around for that extra split second to find out what's in store ....then Talk to us to find out how your custom 404 Page can be created for lead generation.