Stop Saying ‘Click Here’: Why It’s Time to Retire This Outdated CTA
The Death of ‘Click Here’ and the Rise of Smart CTAs
Once upon a time, internet users needed guidance. The web was new, and telling someone to “Click Here” was a necessary signpost. But times have changed. Today’s users—whether Gen Z digital natives or tech-savvy Boomers—instinctively recognize hyperlinks, buttons, and CTAs (Calls to Action) without the need for explicit instructions.
Yet, despite this evolution, many websites and digital ads still cling to the outdated phrase “Click Here.” Not only is it redundant, but it also weakens engagement, hurts accessibility, and even damages SEO. It’s time to move on.
1. Modern Users Know Where to Click
The internet has been around for decades, and so have interactive elements like buttons, images, and linked text. Most users now recognize these visual cues without needing explicit directions.
💡 Instead of: Click here to sign up!
✅ Try: Sign up today!
A well-designed button or link doesn’t need a flashing neon sign telling users what to do—it should be clear from the context.
📖 Reference: A 2023 UX study by the Nielsen Norman Group found that vague CTAs like “Click Here” decrease engagement compared to action-oriented alternatives like “Learn More” or “Get Started.”
2. ‘Click Here’ Is Terrible for Accessibility
Not everyone clicks. Some users tap on mobile devices, while others navigate via keyboard or use screen readers. For visually impaired users, “Click Here” provides no context. A screen reader announcing “Click Here” out of context is meaningless.
💡 Instead of: Click here for details.
✅ Try: View event details.
📖 Reference: The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) emphasize that links should be descriptive to ensure inclusivity for all users.
3. SEO: ‘Click Here’ Won’t Help You Rank
Search engines rely on anchor text to understand page content. When a link simply says “Click Here,” it tells Google nothing about what’s on the other side.
💡 Instead of: Click here to read our AI report.
✅ Try: Read our AI report on emerging trends.
📖 Reference: A 2024 Moz study found that descriptive anchor text improves page ranking by giving search engines relevant keywords.
4. Better CTAs Lead to Higher Engagement
Vague, uninspiring CTAs result in lower click-through rates. Why? Because users respond to clarity and action-driven language.
💡 Instead of: Click here to subscribe!
✅ Try: Get weekly updates!
📖 Reference: A HubSpot case study found that replacing “Click Here” with a specific, benefit-driven CTA increased conversions by 22%.
The Future: Smarter, More Engaging CTAs
The best CTAs are:
✅ Action-Oriented (Download Now, Try Free, Explore Features)
✅ Descriptive (Compare Pricing, See the Full Guide, Read the Study)
✅ Mobile-Friendly (Short, Tap-Friendly Buttons)
✅ Inclusive (Works with screen readers and various input methods)
Let’s leave “Click Here” where it belongs—in the early days of the internet. Your audience is ready for better.