IN THIS POST, I DIVE INTO THE SECRETS BEHIND NETFLIX'S SUCCESS: an intuitive, addictive user interface that keeps viewers hooked. I break down the principles behind Netflix's binge-worthy design, and how these can be leveraged to transform your own product or online presence. This isn't about turning your business into a streaming service—it's about understanding how to captivate an audience and guide them seamlessly through your site. Let's explore how to make your website as binge-worthy as a Netflix Original.
Create a Hook
Just like Netflix captures viewers with compelling trailers, your homepage needs to grab visitors from the get-go. Keep your design clean and professional, but with a touch of personality. Use engaging visuals and clear, concise copy that communicates what your business does and what value it offers.
Developer platform Github pulls you in straight away. The homepage uses beautiful sci-fi illustration which will appeal to their key audience whilst conveying a futuristic approach around technology like AI. The design cleverly draws your eye to the proposition using hints of the user interface from the service. The headline is short and simple, making you feel part of the community, leading you down to read about the key features of productivity, community and security underneath.
Tell a Story
People are hardwired to love stories, and Netflix knows this well. Apply the same principle to your landing page by telling your brand's story. Make it personal, relatable, and engaging. Include images or videos to keep it visually appealing.
Mel Robbins is a leading podcast host and motivational speaker who has a compelling story about how she has turned her life around and how you can do the same.
Offer a Content Buffet
Netflix's strength lies in its diverse content. Similarly, offer a variety of content on your website. This could include blog posts, case studies, tutorials, webinars, or infographics. Ensure it's valuable and relevant to your audience. Update your site regularly with fresh content, news, or features to give visitors a reason to come back.
Music mastering website LANDR attracts visitors with a range of content and articles relevant to musicians that tackle their key painpoints like growing an audience and getting paid. In addition there are also Spotify playlists and educational courses.
Personalise the Experience
Netflix’s algorithm suggests shows based on users' viewing history. Similarly, personalise your users experience. For instance, use cookies to remember a returning visitor’s preferences or use AI-driven recommendations for related content. Airbnb determines your location from your IP address to show how much you can earn from being a host.
Easy Navigation
A complex menu or confusing layout is like a hard-to-navigate TV guide. Make sure your website is user-friendly with intuitive navigation, quick load times, and mobile optimization. Poorly designed websites have a bounce-rate of 90% or higher, which means nine out of ten visitors leave straight away. This can be reduced from 40-70% if you create a great user experience.
Free Markets Destroy draws your attention to dive straight in and explore topics. The navigation is designed to be a primary feature with loud typography and a larger than life mouse pointer.
