essay call to action examples

50 Effective “CTAs” (Calls to Action): Tips and Examples

The power of a well-crafted call to action is the key to meeting your sales goals. You can write about a topic all you want, but without a call to action (CTA), your audience may never seize the opportunity you’re offering.

A CTA is more than a prompt; it’s a strategic marketing tool designed to elicit an immediate response, transforming passive onlookers into active participants. It’s how you get your audience aligned with the goals of your campaign or business.

Consider this your guide to navigating the intricate world of CTAs. We’ll start with the basics of CTAs and then offer a step-by-step tutorial on creating compelling prompts. Lastly, we’ll share examples of CTAs.

Give your CTAs extra polish Grammarly helps you communicate confidently Write with Grammarly

What is a call to action ?

A call to action is a concise prompt designed to spur an immediate response from an audience, guiding them toward a specific action. No matter whether you’re asking your audience to make a purchase, subscribe to a service, or engage with content, the call to action is a strategic marketing tool.

The primary purpose of a CTA is to change individuals from passive observers to active participants, aligning their actions with the goals of the business or campaign. By providing clarity, creating a sense of urgency, and emphasizing the benefits of the intended action, CTAs play a pivotal role in driving conversions and engagement.

When and where to use a CTA

A call to action, commonly known by the initialism CTA, can take various forms, from clickable buttons to persuasive phrases. You’ll see them in marketing materials like websites, emails, social media, and advertisements.

CTAs can be effective in most marketing mediums. Because CTAs can be used almost anywhere, it’s essential to tailor your CTA language and placement to the specific context and the desired user action. A well-crafted and strategically placed CTA can significantly enhance user engagement, helping you achieve your goals.

Here’s where marketers commonly use CTAs:

• Website landing pages
• Blog posts and articles
• Email marketing
• Social media posts
• Product pages
• Pop-up forms
• Printed materials
• Online advertisements
• Exit intent pop-ups

A CTA can be included in buttons, body copy, headers, subject lines, and really anything text-based.

Types of CTAs

Each type serves a distinct purpose in engaging users and driving specific actions based on the goals of a business or marketing campaign.

Direct Action CTAs

Direct action CTAs explicitly invite users to take a specific immediate action. This type of CTA is commonly used at the end of cover letters , in advertisements, on sales pages, and in email marketing. Examples include “Buy Now,” “Subscribe Today,” and “Make an Appointment.”

Informational CTAs

Informational CTAs direct users to discover more about a product, service, idea, or campaign. These might redirect to a blog or sales page. Examples include “Learn More,” “Read the Guide,” and “Explore the Features.”

Social sharing CTAs

A social sharing CTA encourages users to share content on social media platforms. You’ll often find this kind of CTA in newsletters , podcasts, and blogs. Examples include “Share With Your Network,” “Repost This TikTok,” and “Pin It.”

Feedback CTAs

Feedback CTAs prompt users to provide opinions and reviews or participate in surveys. These are commonly used in business emails to ask for an evaluation when someone unsubscribes, ends a free trial, buys a product, or listens to a podcast. Examples include “Leave a Review,” “Take a Survey,” and “Tell Us What You Think.”

Personalized CTAs

Personalized CTAs dynamically adjust based on user behavior, preferences, or demographics. They often include the user’s first name. Examples include “Your Exclusive Offer Awaits,” “Recommended for You,” and “Tailored Just for You.”

How to write a CTA: 9 tips

Writing an effective and compelling Call to Action involves careful consideration of language, placement, and relevance to your audience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create impactful CTAs.

1 Understand your audience

Identify your target audience and understand their needs, preferences, and pain points. Then consider why they would want to take the action you’re requesting. How would it benefit them?

2 Define your goal

Clearly outline the specific action you want your audience to take. Whether it’s making a purchase, signing up, or sharing content, a singular and focused goal is crucial.

3 Use actionable language

Employ verbs that inspire action. Start your CTA with an action word like “Shop,” “Subscribe,” “Explore,” or “Join” to prompt immediate engagement.

4 Create a sense of urgency

Instill a feeling of urgency to encourage prompt action. Urgency tactics can include limited-time offers, limited-quantity offers, and countdowns.

5 Highlight benefits

Before you write your actual CTA, consider how to communicate the benefits of taking the desired action. Explain how it will add value or solve a problem for the user. Use these benefits briefly in your CTA or simply to inform how you write the CTA.

6 Be clear and concise

Keep your CTA short and straightforward. Avoid unnecessary details or filler words so users can quickly grasp what is asked of them.

7 Place strategically

Position your CTA where it’s easily visible. It’s often effective at the end of a piece of content, as a prominent button on a webpage, or as two or three buttons within an email .

8 Test and iterate

If possible, A/B test different variations of your CTA to see what resonates best with your audience. The best CTAs are crafted by analyzing performance metrics and continuously refining approaches for maximum results.

9 Maintain consistency

The transition from content to CTA should feel seamless and coherent. Lead into it with your content and make the language and brand voice similar across both.

50 CTA examples

Direct action cta examples.

• Order Today
• Subscribe for Updates
• Add to Cart
• Claim Your Discount
• Sign Up Free
• Get Started Now
• Purchase Tickets
• Join the Community
• Upgrade Your Plan

Informational CTA examples

• Learn About Our Services
• Read the Blog
• Discover More
• Explore Our Products
• Find Out How It Works
• See Our Portfolio
• Watch the Video
• Read Customer Testimonials
• Check Out Our FAQs
• View Our Resources

Social sharing CTA examples

• Share With Friends
• Spread the Word
• Tell Your Followers
• Share on Facebook
• Repost and Share
• Pin It for Later
• Share the Love
• Invite Your Network
• Tag a Friend
• Snap and Share

Feedback CTA examples

• Leave a Product Review
• Rate Your Experience
• Tell Us Your Thoughts
• Provide Feedback
• Take Our Survey
• Share Your Opinion
• Customer Feedback Welcome
• Rate and Review
• Help Us Improve
• Voice Your Suggestions

Personalized CTA examples

For an even more personalized CTA, replace “you/your” in these prompts with a recipient’s first name or add it to the end of the CTA.

• Your Exclusive Invitation
• Tailored Just for You
• Customized Options for You
• Explore Personalized Deals
• Unlock Your Special Offer
• Your Recommended Products
• Personalized Insights for You
• Discover Your Ideal Plan
• Get Your Personalized Quote
• Customized Solutions for You

A call to action (CTA) is a directive used in marketing to guide an audience toward a desired behavior, such as making a purchase, subscribing to a newsletter, or clicking a link. CTAs are often presented clearly and compellingly, using concise, persuasive language and a sense of urgency to motivate the audience.

What is the purpose of a CTA?

The purpose of a CTA is to prompt a specific and immediate response from an audience. CTAs aim to convert passive observers into active participants. They provide clarity and direction, reducing ambiguity for the audience by clearly stating what action is asked of them.

What are the different kinds of CTAs?

There are five main types of CTAs, each tailored to different purposes and contexts. The following are the most common CTAs you’ll see in marketing.

• Direct Action CTAs such as “Buy Now” or “Sign Up Today”
• Informational CTAs like “Learn More” or “Read the Guide”
• Social sharing CTAs such as “Share With Your Network” or “Repost”
• Feedback CTAs like “Leave a Review” or “Take a Survey”
• Personalized CTAs, which dynamically adjust based on user behavior or preferences

150 Call-to-Action Examples

By Status.net Editorial Team on December 21, 2024 — 9 minutes to read

A well-crafted call-to-action (CTA) can make all the difference in boosting performance. CTAs guide your visitors to take specific actions, like signing up for a newsletter or making a purchase.

Effective CTAs are clear, concise, and compelling. They tell your audience exactly what to do next. Different situations call for different types of CTAs. Choosing the right CTA for each occasion is key. Whether you’re running a sale, hosting an event, or launching a new product, your CTA should match the moment. By tailoring your CTAs, you can improve your conversion rates and achieve your marketing goals.

Examples of Transactional CTAs

Transactional calls-to-action (CTAs) aim to get customers to make a purchase or complete a specific action.

• “Buy [Product] Now” Example: “ Buy Our Cozy Sweater Now”
• “Add to Cart” Example: “Add Wireless Headphones to Cart”
• “Get [Discount]% Off Today” Example: “Get 20% Off Today
• “Start Your Free Trial” Example: “Start Your Free 30-Day Trial”
• “Claim Your [Offer]” Example: “Claim Your Free Shipping”
• “Shop the [Event] Sale” Example: “Shop the Black Friday Sale”
• “Upgrade to [Premium Plan]” Example: “Upgrade to Pro Plan”
• “Reserve Your [Item/Spot]” Example: “Reserve Your Seat”
• “Join [Membership] Today” Example: “Join VIP Club Today”
• “Limited Time: [Offer]” Example: “Limited Time: Buy One, Get One Free”

Examples of Informational CTAs

Informational calls-to-action (CTAs) encourage readers to get additional details about a topic. They’re great for blogs, websites, and educational content.

• “Discover [topic]” Example: Discover the secrets of organic gardening
• “Find out how [benefit]” Example: Find out how to double your savings in 6 months
• “Learn more about [subject]” Example: Learn more about renewable energy sources
• “Get the facts on [issue]” Example: Get the facts on climate change
• “Explore [area of interest]” Example: Explore the wonders of deep-sea marine life
• “See what [group] is saying about [topic]” Example: See what experts are saying about AI technology
• “Read our guide on [subject]” Example: Read our guide on starting a successful online business
• “Check out our [resource] for more info” Example: Check out our free ebook for more info on healthy eating
• “Watch our video about [topic]” Example: Watch our video about the history of space exploration
• “Sign up for updates on [subject]” Example: Sign up for updates on the latest smartphone releases

Examples of Navigational CTAs

Navigating a website should be easy. That’s where navigational calls-to-action (CTAs) come in handy. They guide visitors to important pages or sections.

• “Discover [Product/Service]” Example: “Discover Our New Fall Collection”
• “Explore [Category]” Example: “Explore Our Hiking Gear
• “Learn More About [Topic]” Example: “Learn More About Our Sustainability Efforts”
• “Browse [Section]” Example: “Browse Our Bestsellers”
• “Check Out [Feature]” Example: “Check Out Our Virtual Try-On Tool”
• “Find [Item]” Example: “Find Your Perfect Fit”
• “View [Page]” Example: “View Our Size Guide”
• “See [Category] Options” Example: “See Payment Options”
• “Go To [Section]” Example: Go To Customer Reviews”
• “Visit Our [Page]” Example: “Visit Our FAQ Page”

These CTAs can help your visitors find what they’re looking for quickly. Try using action verbs and clear language to make your CTAs stand out.

Remember to place your navigational CTAs where they make sense on your website. This could be in menus, sidebars, or within your content.

Examples of Lead Generation CTAs

Want to grow your email list? Lead generation calls-to-action (CTAs) can help. These CTAs aim to get visitors to share their contact info.

• “Get Your Free [Resource]” Example: “Get Your Free Social Media Calendar”
• “Sign Up for [Benefit]” Example: “Sign Up for Exclusive Deals”
• “Join [Number] Happy Customers” Example: “Join 10,000 Happy Customers”
• “Try [Product/Service] Risk-Free” Example: “Try Our App Risk-Free”
• “Start Your [Timeframe] Trial” Example: “Start Your 14-Day Trial”
• “Reserve Your Spot for [Event]” Example: “Reserve Your Spot for Our Webinar”
• “Download [Resource] Now” Example: “Download Our E-book Now”
• “Get [Benefit] Today” Example: “Get Expert Tips Today”
• “Claim Your [Offer]” Example: “Claim Your 20% Discount”
• “Subscribe for [Benefit]” Example: “Subscribe for Weekly Updates”

Test different options to see what works best for your audience.

Examples of Event-Promotion CTAs

Want to boost attendance at your next event? A great call-to-action (CTA) can make all the difference.

• “Save Your Spot at [Event Name]” Example: “Save Your Spot at TechCon 2025”
• “Join Us for [Event Description]” Example: “Join Us for a Night of Jazz and Cocktails”
• “Don’t Miss Out on [Event Highlight]” Example: “Don’t Miss Out on Our Biggest Sale of the Year”
• “Register Now for [Event Name]” Example: “Register Now for the Annual Charity Run”
• “Secure Your Ticket to [Event Name]” Example: “Secure Your Ticket to the Summer Music Festival”
• “Be Part of [Event Experience]” Example: “Be Part of the Most Exciting Startup Pitch Competition”
• “RSVP Today for [Event Name]” Example: “RSVP Today for Our Grand Opening Celebration”
• “Get Your Early Bird Tickets for [Event Name]” Example: “Get Your Early Bird Tickets for ComicCon 2025”
• “Book Your Spot at [Event Name]” Example: “Book Your Spot at the Wellness Retreat”

Examples of CTAs for Different Platforms

Call-to-action buttons and phrases can be tailored to fit various online platforms. The right CTA can boost engagement and conversions across websites, e-commerce, emails, blogs, and social media.

Website and Landing Pages

Your website is often the first place customers interact with your brand. These CTAs can be used on your homepage, product pages, or landing pages to guide visitors to take action.

• “Get Started Now”
• “Sign Up for Free”
• “Try It Risk-Free”
• “Learn More”
• “Download Our Guide”
• “Book a Demo”
• “Join the Waitlist”
• “Claim Your Spot”
• “See Pricing”
• “Request a Quote”
• “Take the Quiz”
• “Watch Video”
• “Schedule a Call”
• “Get a Free Sample”
• “Start Your Free Trial”
• “Browse Our Collection”
• “Get Instant Access”
• “Find a Store Near You”
• “Chat with an Expert”
• “Customize Your Plan”

E-commerce Platforms

On e-commerce sites, your goal is to turn browsers into buyers.

These CTAs can be used on your homepage, product pages, or landing pages to guide visitors to take action.

• “Add to Cart”
• “Buy Now”
• “Shop the Sale”
• “Get 20% Off”
• “Claim Your Discount”
• “Limited Time Offer”
• “Complete Your Look”
• “Customize Your Order”
• “Join Our VIP Club”
• “Pre-Order Now”
• “Check Availability”
• “Reserve Your Size”
• “Free Shipping on Orders Over $50”
• “Bundle and Save”
• “Add to Wishlist”
• “Compare Products”
• “Read Reviews”
• “Track Your Order”
• “Refer a Friend”
• “Try Before You Buy”

Place these CTAs strategically on product pages, during checkout, and in promotional banners to boost conversions.

Email and Newsletters

Email marketing is a powerful tool for reaching your audience directly.

• “Read More”
• “Shop Now”
• “Claim Your Offer”
• “Activate Your Account”
• “Confirm Your Subscription”
• “RSVP Today”
• “Update Your Preferences”
• “Take Our Survey”
• “Download the App”
• “Renew Your Membership”
• “View Your Rewards”
• “Unlock Exclusive Content”
• “Share Your Story”
• “Join the Webinar”
• “Get Your Free Gift”
• “Check Your Score”
• “Print Your Coupon”
• “Upgrade Your Plan”
• “Refer a Colleague”
• “Set Your Goals”

Use these CTAs in email bodies, subject lines, and buttons to encourage recipients to take action.

Blogs and Content Marketing

Your blog is a great place to showcase your expertise and build trust.

• “Subscribe for Updates”
• “Leave a Comment”
• “Share This Post”
• “Download the Checklist”
• “Listen to the Podcast”
• “Watch the Tutorial”
• “Read Related Articles”
• “Take the Challenge”
• “Join the Discussion”
• “Get the Recipe”
• “Sign Up for the Workshop”
• “Follow Us on Social Media”
• “Check Out Our Tools”
• “Get the Full Report”
• “Try This Tip”
• “See Case Studies”
• “Ask the Expert”
• “Get the Worksheet”
• “Explore More Topics”
• “Save for Later”

Place these CTAs within your blog posts, at the end of articles, and in sidebars to guide readers to more content or offers.

Social Media Engagement

• “Like if You Agree”
• “Double Tap to Show Love”
• “Tag a Friend”
• “Share Your Thoughts”
• “Vote in Our Poll”
• “Enter Our Giveaway”
• “Use Our Hashtag”
• “Swipe Up for More”
• “Link in Bio”
• “Join Our Live Stream”
• “Duet with Us”
• “Save This Post”
• “Turn on Notifications”
• “Shop This Look”
• “Join Our Challenge”
• “Repost and Tag Us”
• “DM Us Your Questions”
• “Follow for Daily Tips”
• “Click the Link to Learn More”

You can use these CTAs in your posts, stories, and bios across different social media platforms to boost interaction and followers.

Essentials of an Effective Call to Action

A good call to action grabs attention and gets people to act. It needs to be clear, eye-catching, and use the right words.

Clarity and Simplicity

Keep your call to action short and sweet. Use simple words that everyone can understand. Avoid jargon or complicated terms. Your message should be crystal clear at a glance.

For example, “Sign Up Now” is better than “Initiate Your Membership Process.” The first one is quick and easy to grasp.

Make sure people know exactly what will happen when they click. Will they get a free trial? Download an ebook? Join your mailing list? Be specific about the action and the outcome.

Designing for Visibility and Attention

Your call to action needs to stand out on the page. Use colors that pop against the background. Make the button or text big enough to notice right away.

Put your call to action in a spot where people will see it easily. Near the top of the page often works well. You can also place it after important info that builds interest.

Don’t crowd it with other elements. Give it some breathing room so it catches the eye.

Use shapes like buttons or boxes to frame your call to action. This helps it stand apart from regular text.

Crafting Compelling Phrases

Start with action words that create a sense of urgency. “Get,” “Start,” “Join,” and “Discover” are good choices. They push people to take the next step.

Add words that show value or benefits. “Free,” “Now,” “Exclusive,” and “Limited Time” can boost interest.

Try phrases like:

• “Get Your Free Guide”
• “Start Your 30-Day Trial”
• “Join Now and Save 20%”

Test different phrases to see which ones work best for your audience. Small changes can make a big difference in how many people click.

The Psychology Behind a Powerful Call to Action

1. creating a sense of urgency.

Urgency is a powerful motivator. When you feel time is running out, you’re more likely to act fast. Good CTAs often use words like “now,” “today,” or “limited time” to create this feeling.

For example, “Buy now – sale ends at midnight!” makes people want to act quickly.

Another way to create urgency is by using countdown timers. Seeing the seconds tick away can push someone to make a decision faster.

2. Utilizing Scarcity to Encourage Action

Scarcity is the fear of missing out. When something is in short supply, people want it more. Smart CTAs use this to their advantage.

Phrases like “Only 3 left in stock!” or “Limited spots available” can make someone feel like they need to act now.

Flash sales are a great example of using scarcity. They offer deals for a very short time, making people feel like they need to buy right away.

3. Using the Right Action Verbs

Strong verbs inspire action. They tell us exactly what to do next. Good CTAs use clear, powerful words to guide us.

Words like “get,” “start,” “join,” and “discover” are common in effective CTAs.

For instance, “Start your free trial” is more compelling than “Sign up.” It tells us what we’ll get and what to do in just a few words.

Avoid weak verbs like “click here.” Instead, use verbs that describe the benefit, like “ Save 50% today! ”

4. Consistency Across Marketing Channels

Your CTAs should feel familiar no matter where customers find them. It is recommended to use the same words, colors, and designs in emails, social media, and on the website. This helps people know what to expect.

• Summary of Qualifications: 50 Powerful Action Verbs & 2 Examples
• How to Write an Action Plan: Step-by-Step (Examples)
• 150+ Inspiring Examples of Core Values in the Workplace
• 10 Great Sales Pitch Examples and Templates
• Core Values List: 150+ Awesome Examples of Personal Values
• Self Evaluation Examples [Complete Guide]

Call to Action Examples and Best Practices

By David Alex

Download our free workbook and get started on your action plan to launch your business

The email you entered is invalid.

Thank you for subscribing.

By entering your email, you indicate that you have read and understood our Privacy Policy and agree to receive marketing from Squarespace.

You’ve got a great website, brand, and offering, but are you getting the results you want? Is your audience signing up for your newsletter, booking appointments, or buying your products? 

A simple tweak to your call to action (CTA) could make a world of difference. For someone navigating an email, website, or social media post, CTAs are points of interest—usually buttons or standout text—to continue their journey. 

Here’s what makes an effective call to action, how to write yours, and a complete list of 37 examples to spark your imagination. 

What is a call to action?

As the name suggests, a call to action is a way to signal to a user to take some sort of action on a page, such as:

Sign up for a newsletter

Buy a product

Read a blog post

Get a quote

Start a free trial

Book a session

Take a survey

Sign up for something

Book a consultation

Get in touch

Start using a product

In other words, what do you hope they’ll do next from that page, email, or post?

A call to action actively encourages users to engage with your brand or content. It guides them to take the next step, whether that’s learning more about you or becoming a customer.

Without a clear call to action, users might feel confused or unsure how to proceed. That causes people to navigate away, and can be a missed opportunity for building a connection or converting a potential supporter.

How to write a call to action

These simple steps will help you write a great call to action, every time.

Define your goal. For example, “I want to sell more planners.”

Write down what you want your users to do when they land on your page. “I want users to buy the planners we sell.”

Create a simple statement telling your user what to do. “Explore our planners and pick the one you think might work for you. Shop Now.”

Check that this statement aligns with your goal in Step 1 and the desired action in Step 2.

Revise your statement to make it short, clear, direct, and appealing. “Explore our planners. Shop Now.”

A powerful CTA can transform your website into a tool for achieving your business or audience-building goals. With a little practice, you can master the art of writing CTAs that get results.

Here are a few examples of how this applies to different website goals.

Online store: If they’re exploring your products, nudge them to purchase.

Portfolio: If they’re impressed with your portfolio, invite them to fill out an interest form.

Restaurant: If they’re exploring your menu, entice them to make a reservation.

Therapist/Coach: If they’re considering your online session, invite them to book now.

Nonprofit: If they’re moved by your mission, invite them to donate or volunteer.

Local business : If they’re browsing your services, suggest scheduling a consultation.

No matter your business, a strong call to action benefits both you and your customer. The CTA solves their problem, and you gain their business.

Need help writing your calls to action? Try using Squarespace AI to draft a few ideas.

Understand primary and secondary calls to action

Your website should have a clear primary goal. But what if a visitor isn't ready to commit yet? That's where secondary calls to action come in. These are smaller steps that lead toward your primary goal.

For instance, if your primary call to action is "Book a Consultation," secondary CTAs could be:

Watch Video (leads to overview or demo video)

Learn More (leads to description of services)

Contact Us (leads to contact form)

37 call to action examples

Writing an effective call to action isn’t complicated, but it does take some thought. The best approach is to be direct, clear, and concise about what you want users to do. 

And yes, a well-structured call to action can go beyond just a button. You can combine a headline, body text, and a button as your call to action. A strong headline grabs the attention of the user, while the description emphasizes the benefits they’ll gain by taking action. Finally, the button is a clear, immediate action to proceed, guiding them toward their desired goal.

37 CTA ideas

Book your free consultation

Get instant access

Book online

Let’s get to work

Work with me

Chat with us

View our gallery

Book reservation

Watch video

Reserve your spot

Browse listings

Join waitlist

Share your story

Install app

See if you qualify

Start today

Download now

Schedule an appointment

Get weekly inspiration

Join our newsletter

Order today 

Sign up & save

Donate today

Register now

Discover more

Become a member

Best practices for CTAs

There are a few things to keep in mind to get the best results from your calls to action.

Build trust. Always deliver on the promises you make in your CTAs. Bait-and-switch tactics erode trust and put people off of clicking in the future.

Support your goal with every page and section. Subtly guide users toward your primary CTA, even in unexpected places like your "About" section. Think of it like creating a breadcrumb trail with each section.

Use action verbs. Replace passive language with strong verbs like "Shop," "Vote," "Explore," "Contact," or "Schedule."

Include power words. Use words that evoke emotion: "Exclusive," "Instant," "Free," "New," "Save," and "Enjoy."

Simplicity wins. Avoid CTAs that are overly wordy and complex. Short, direct CTAs are the most effective.  Don't make users work to figure out what you want them to do.

Create urgency. Limited-time offers or phrases like "Act Now" can encourage immediate action.

Focus on value. Every CTA should provide something valuable—a solution, information, or an exclusive offer. 

Make it irresistible . Does your CTA evoke your visitor’s curiosity? Are they dying to see your latest line or learn the newest trends? Whatever the case, make your call to action irresistible.

Remember to add CTAs anywhere you interact with your audience. Include your call to action on your website , social accounts , and email marketing .

CTA design tips

A strong call to action isn't just about the words, how you use it matters. Follow these key principles to maximize your CTAs' impact.

Be consistent across your site. Use the same primary CTA (and similar button design) throughout your website.  Alternative phrasing for the same action is okay, but keep the next step consistent.

Clarity is key. Keep your language concise and easy to grasp. Confusing CTAs lead to inaction. 

Design for impact. Use visually distinct buttons, banners, and occasional pop-ups to draw attention to your CTAs without overwhelming users.

Placement matters. Position your primary CTA near the top of the page and make it easy to find throughout your site.

Think mobile-first. More people browse websites on mobile devices than desktops. Make sure your CTAs are large enough to easily tap and that your site functions flawlessly on smaller screens.

By following these guidelines, you'll craft CTAs that effectively guide users towards the actions that help both you and your customers succeed. 

Test and optimize with Squarespace Analytics

Analytics can be a goldmine of information for optimizing your CTAs. Just like email analytics can help you learn whether your subject lines are convincing subscribers to open, CTA metrics give you opportunities to improve. Here are some specific ways to use Squarespace Analytics data to make your CTAs more effective.

Track CTA clickthrough rates. See how many users actually click on your CTAs. This is a key metric for gauging their effectiveness. Low clickthrough rates might indicate the need to refine your CTA wording, placement, or design.

Analyze traffic sources. See where your users are coming from— organic search , social media, or paid advertising. This helps you tailor your CTAs to the specific audience you're attracting. For example, if your data shows that most of your users find you through organic searches, go through your site pages to add more CTAs that use your preferred target keywords.

Measure engagement. Track how long users stay on the page after clicking a CTA. This can indicate if your post-click content is engaging and supports the action you want users to take.

Getting users to take action is the key to turning your website into a success.  

No two businesses are alike, so don't be afraid to get creative. Experiment with different CTA wording, placements, and designs. Then, track the results to discover which CTAs resonate best with your audience.  

With a little effort and analysis, you'll master the art of calls to action and transform your website into a powerful tool for growth.

Ready to try CTAs for your audience?

Posted on 09 May 2024

Related Articles

Create an Effective User Experience and Calls to Action

By Nick Mitchell

10 Feb 2022

Welcome Email Examples and Best Practices

By Amanda Shih-Goel

17 Jan 2024

Subscribe to receive the latest MAKING IT blog posts and updates, promotions and partnerships from Squarespace.

By providing your email, you indicate you have read and understood our Privacy Policy .

Business growth

Marketing tips

25 call to action examples (and free CTA generator)

What comes to mind when I try to think of a powerful CTA (call to action) is the one my dad expertly executed by bellowing at me daily to get a job . Fresh from a college experience that promised the world but mainly delivered a mountain of student debt, I was under the assumption that adulthood was supposed to be full of quirky adventures and unexpected meet-cutes, not unsolicited career advice from a man who still struggles to connect to Bluetooth.

Eventually, his CTA successfully motivated me to become a productive member of society. And that's the power of a compelling CTA—it jolts you out of your passiveness and into action. In my case, I got a job despite a lifelong belief that work is something to avoid unless absolutely necessary. (Look at me now, Dad!) 

Just as personal CTAs can lead to transformative life decisions, marketing CTAs have the potential to significantly impact user engagement and conversion. Want to craft your own magnetic calls to action? Keep reading for tips and examples of what makes great CTAs, well, great.

Table of contents:

Call to action generator

Remember: Chatbots use AI models. Because AI is a new technology that generates dynamic on-demand responses, we always encourage you to fact-check and verify responses are correct/meet your needs.

To use this CTA generator, tell the bot the specific action you want your audience to take—like signing up for a newsletter or making a purchase. The bot will ask you a few more questions to help identify your target audience and discover what messages will engage them. 

Based on this information, the generator will create custom CTAs. You can then chat with the bot further to refine them, or tweak and edit on your own.

What is a call to action (CTA)?

A call to action (CTA) is a prompt or message, typically formatted as a button or link, that encourages the audience to take a specific and immediate action.

CTAs are commonly used in marketing and sales contexts to guide users toward the next step in their journey, whether that's purchasing a product, signing up for a newsletter, or forwarding that chain email to all of their friends to avoid eight years of bad luck. Some common call to action examples include:

Add to cart

Types of CTAs

Here's a primer on some of the most common CTA types.

25 call to action examples (and why they work)

Let's dissect some real-life CTA examples to learn how to use strategic copy, design, and placement to transform an ordinary CTA into a magnetic, can't-resist-clicking force.

1. JD + Kate Industries

CTA placement: Exit intent pop-up

CTA type: Lead to purchase

What it does right: Attention-grabbing, offers a valuable incentive, humorous and lighthearted

The brazen use of "WAIT" isn't a gentle suggestion; it's a command. Like someone grabbing your elbow just as you're about to duck out without a goodbye. It's intrusive, but in a way that makes you think, "Alright, what did I miss?"

Combine that with the sheer audacity of telling someone they've forgotten to buy not just one candle but HUNDREDS of candles. It's dramatic, it's over-the-top, and frankly, it's memorable. With copy like that, it's hard to resist giving away your email address because one can only wonder what their emails would be like.

2. Giftwrap.ai

CTA placement: Display ad

What it does right: Engaging, personalized, visually appealing

It's refreshing to see something that doesn't pretend to know you better than you know yourself. Instead of telling you what your significant other might want, it's asking you to fill in the blanks. A little bit of personalization without the personal touch. Clever, really.

As for the CTA button, the emoji is a nice touch. Plus, the use of "show" rather than "buy" or "see" is like a little magic trick. "Voila! Here are your gift options."

3. Who Gives A Crap

CTA placement: Facebook ad

What it does right: Benefit-oriented language makes the CTA more appealing to users and encourages them to take action 

By comparing "Us" and "Them," they're not only offering a quantitative argument (385 sheets versus a paltry 299), but they're also injecting a bit of humor. And while I've never been one to count sheets, if you're telling me I get more for my money and it'll look cute next to my collection of HUNDREDS of candles, I'm sold. Also, describing the competitor as "objectively very boring" is a sentiment I've often used to describe my social life, but to see it on toilet paper? Well, that's something.

"28% cheaper than Charmin," followed by a "Shop Now" button, isn't just a call to action; it's a call to revolution! A revolution of, well, saving on toilet paper and perhaps bringing a touch of flair to a decidedly unglamorous aspect of life.

CTA placement: Homepage header

What it does right: Creates curiosity, addresses pain points, social proof

There's something oddly reassuring about a direct, no-nonsense headline promising exactly what every website on this overcrowded internet wants: visibility.

The name-dropping of heavy-hitter customers serves as a strong endorsement. It's not saying, "Look who trusts us," but rather, "Look who you'd be in company with." And that "17,961 users joined Ahrefs in the last 7 days" is a nice touch. It's not boastful, but it's certainly not modest. It's a subtle prod to the undecided that says, "While you're contemplating, thousands have already decided."

This CTA is a perfect blend of self-assuredness, social proof, and just the right amount of peer pressure.

5. Ruggable

CTA type: Limited-time offer

What it does right: Straightforward, creates a sense of urgency, sparks curiosity

There's something unapologetically direct about this ad. "Final hours to save until Black Friday"—it's not asking you, it's telling you. Time's running out, and if you're the type who thrives on the thrill of a last-minute decision, this is your moment.

The CTA is a master class in suspense. That "% OFF" lurking behind the button is like when someone says they've got news, but they'll tell you later—except instead of being left alone with your intrusive thoughts, conjuring up worst-case scenarios, you get a sweet discount on a cute, machine-washable rug.

CTA type: Product demo

What it does right: Solution-oriented, benefit-driven, relatable

"Email sucked for years. Not anymore—we fixed it." You mean that thing everyone's been complaining about since the dawn of the internet? It's about time, and I'm all ears.

The rest of the copy succinctly addresses customer pain points and aspirational desires. It paints a picture of a world where checking your email might feel more like reading a postcard from a friend rather than sifting through a pile of bills.

The CTA button, "See how HEY works," is straightforward. No flowery language, no over-the-top promises. Just a simple invitation.

7. Big Blanket Co

What it does right: Creates a sense of urgency, visually appealing, reassuring

The urgency of "limited quantities available...Reserve yours now before it's too late" is classic retail psychology. It's both an announcement and a challenge, like when a kid hears the whistle signaling the end of adult swim and races to be the first one to cannonball into the pool.

The "Limited Restock [Massive 10'x10' Blankets] 100 Night Guarantee + Free Shipping" is the clincher. It promises a combination of rarity, quality, reliability, and convenience, like a call to action Megazord.

What it does right: Addresses pain points, benefit-oriented, actionable

"Get up to $700 compensation per passenger, no matter the ticket price." The clarity here is commendable. They're not promising the world, but a very tangible, specific amount. And the Trustpilot rating is a nod to credibility. It's like a friend vouching for a restaurant they swear by, but in this case, it's 157,892 friends.

The two fields for the departure and destination airports are a clever touch. It's interactive, pulling me in, like when a quiz promises to tell me which '90s sitcom character I am based on my questionable life choices. (I'm George Costanza.) The button, with its sharp contrast to the rest of the page, effectively captures attention while still aligning with the brand's colors and aesthetic. "Check compensation" offers an inviting, low-effort action, subtly guiding users toward their potential relief without overwhelming them.

In a world where we're constantly sold solutions to problems we didn't know we had, this CTA addresses a very real grievance with a straightforward promise. And in the often convoluted world of travel woes, that's a breath of fresh, cabin-pressurized air.

9. Crazy Egg

What it does right: Actionable, benefit-oriented, simple

Crazy Egg's CTA isn't trying too hard to impress. It's just good—well thought out, concise, and to the point.

First, the headline: "Make your website better. Instantly." A rather bold proclamation but commendably straightforward. Its use of the word "instantly" suggests that Crazy Egg has the answers, and they're not going to waste your time.

The "Show me my Heatmap" CTA button is, once again, admirably direct. It's not pleading for a click or asking for a moment of your time. It's telling you, in no uncertain terms, what's on the other side of that click.

CTA placement: eCommerce email

What it does right: Clear and concise, visually appealing, strong call to action verb

First off, big ups to Zappos for not making me do math. Half off? I'm already intrigued and haven't even seen the shoes yet.

"Reveal today's deals" feels like a game show moment. What's behind door number one? A pair of boots? New house slippers? It's that momentary thrill, like unwrapping a gift—even if you end up paying for it yourself.

In an endless sea of emails screaming for attention, this one from Zappos does what it needs to do: it grabs you, shakes you gently by the shoulders, and says, "Hey, want something good for half off?" And in this economy, who can say no?

CTA placement: Landing page header

What it does right: Interactive and dynamic, personalized, sparks curiosity

By providing three clear choices (drive or deliver, eat, and ride), Uber shows that they understand and cater to the diverse needs of their users. This personalized approach instantly makes the user feel valued and attended to, whether they need a ride to the airport or just want to stuff their face.

The interactive nature of this dynamic content creates a sense of empowerment and involvement for the user. Even the tens of people unfamiliar with all of Uber's offerings will be intrigued by the distinct options, sparking curiosity and potentially leading them to explore other services beyond their original intention.

12. CareerBuilder

What it does right: Clear and concise, click-worthy secondary CTA

"Find your next job…fast!" Who are you, my dad? Although I suppose if someone's clicking their way onto a job-finding website, they're there for one reason: to snag a job, and preferably one that doesn't make them want to put a campfire out with their face.

13. Airtable

What it does right: Social proof, sneak preview, clear and concise

You may be wondering why I included a very basic "submit" button in a CTA showcase, but pairing a straightforward button with great supporting elements like the headline, social proof, and sneak preview, is like sipping top-shelf wine from an old jelly jar. Sometimes, the simple stuff just ties everything together.

The large headline is as direct as my comments on whether a hotdog is a sandwich. (It's not.) Aimed at the so-called professionals in campaign planning, it speaks to a certain crowd, much like literally anything speaks to Swifties looking for Taylor's latest Easter egg.

The bullet list detailing what's inside the eBook provides clarity on the content, letting users know exactly what to expect, including insider tidbits from recognized brands. So, not only do you get smarter, but you also get to casually name-drop at the next girls' night. "I've been implementing campaign planning strategies inspired by Equinox and Taylor Guitars. NBD."

CTA type: Closing the sale

What it does right: Showcases diverse selection, clear and concise, highlights affordability

Max presents an impactful CTA through the Neapolitan ice cream of Disney, Hulu, and Max streaming options, all on one screen. Collectively, these three flavors depict a panoramic view of the bundle, emphasizing a wide variety of choices only rivaled by the Cheesecake Factory menu. 

In a world drowning in content, they've managed, quite succinctly, to sum it all up with "It's all here." The ensuing "Get Max" or "Get the bundle" CTA buttons invite visitors to subscribe, anchoring the CTA by providing a straightforward pathway to accessing all the consumable content your heart desires.

15. Adobe Stock

CTA type: Free trial

What it does right: Benefit-oriented, actionable, relevant to the target audience

In very few words, Adobe found a way to combine attention-grabbing language, address user concerns, highlight the platform's strengths, and offer a valuable deal, making for a cleverly crafted CTA. If I were into such things, I might even click on it. But I have people for that.

CTA type: Event promotion

What it does right: Simple, attention-grabbing, personalized

The header image here immediately grabs attention with its vibrant graphic detailing key event highlights. This provides a quick snapshot of what to expect and builds anticipation.

The body of the message is simple and details exactly what you're going to experience at ZapConnect—adding AI to your workflows or learning to build in a hands-on workshop. It's short, simple, and to the point. If you want in, just click the button to "Save your spot."

17. Pit Viper

CTA placement: Email

What it does right: Pit Viper nails the originality test every time. The email (which is advertising a new line of sunglasses) is set up to look like the nutrition facts on a food label. It's surprising, provokes curiosity, and doesn't read like marketing copy. 

The CTA itself is humorous and prompts a specific action: "Put your greasy fingers on your mouse and click here." They don't even tell you they're selling sunglasses in the copy—you have to click to find out. 

I'd argue they're not sacrificing clarity for humor, either. The CTA is still clear: click here.  

CTA placement: Website (resource page)

CTA type: Read more

What it does right: The CTA "Read more" is easy to understand. We all know what's happening here. It invites users to explore additional content (in this case, a report) without overwhelming them with too much information upfront. This simplicity is effective because it aligns with a common user behavior: clicking to learn more about a topic of interest. 

This is a simple and direct next step in the user's journey through Slack's content. It clearly lets the reader know what to expect (the full text of a report) and then delivers it. While it would be easy to overcomplicate this, I have to admire the simplicity of a good "Read more."

CTA placement: Website

What it does right: This button guides you gently down the sales funnel without making you feel like you're making a major commitment. The trial is marked as "free" in the button, so you're not expecting to immediately fork over $$ just to try the product—but the prompt to try the product is very clear. 

Visually, the button stands out with its bold, dark color against a white background, grabbing attention and inviting clicks. The headline is clear, and the body text expands on the Canva Teams offering in a way that makes it clear what the product is: an "all-in-one visual communication platform designed for work." When you get to the button, you already want to click.

I also appreciate that they add a secondary CTA here if you want to skip the fluff and go straight to sales. Very efficient. 

20. Patagonia

CTA placement: Event page

What it does right: Rather than going for a boring "Sign up now" or another common event CTA, Patagonia uses the charming "RSVP here!"—on a high-contrast button—to grab the reader's attention and suggest that you attend their event. 

I know it's a copywriting trick, but the fact that it reads like a personal event invitation from a friend does make me want to register. And the illustration hints that the event will also be quirky and fun. 

21. Starface

CTA placement: Website pop-up

CTA type: Form submission

What it does right: This CTA appears as a pop-up on Starface's homepage, prompting you to join their marketing list. The ask is big—they want my phone number, not my email address—but they're so cute about it, I can hardly resist. The conversational tone encourages me to trust them, which in turn makes me more likely to hand over my phone number. 

Fun copy combines with a clear value add (exclusive discounts) to make this CTA a winner. Even though the action on the button isn't necessarily clear, the surrounding copy is, and I'm now invested in whatever communication this brand wants to have with me. 

Blast off? I think I will.

22. Vidyard

CTA placement: Website homepage

What it does right: Because of the specificity in this CTA ("Get the eBook"), I know exactly what I'll get to read if I click the button. 

The text above the CTA tells me a little bit about the eBook, but not so much that I feel like I don't still need to take a look inside. 

What it does right: While the design of this CTA isn't top-notch—it's not set off from the copy, embedded in a button, or in a different color—I really like that it comes with a discount code right above it. 

I'm incentivized to click that "Shop Now" button armed with a coupon in a very tangible way. Not just a vague idea of a discount, and not a promise that one will be applied for me at checkout if I ever get there—but a very specific number ($50) that I can apply myself with the provided code. And the CTA itself is clear: go shopping.

24. AllTrails

CTA type: Product or service download

What it does right: AllTrails does something interesting here by linking to their app download on the homepage with this cute little QR-logo-button combination. 

Since there's no purchase necessary—though I highly recommend buying before you're stuck without good cell service—the ask is pretty minimal. And who wouldn't want to test out the App of the Year? That context makes the CTA more compelling. (I definitely redownloaded the app as I wrote this article.) 

CTA placement: Blog

What it does right: That bold blue button stands out from the page in such a good way. It's a flashing sign that says, "Click me!" The first word is clear and action-oriented, and you know just what you're getting when you click the link. The dark text is also set off from the button so the bright color doesn't make the text unreadable. 

I appreciate the stylized screenshot on the side, which gives a visual of what to expect when I sign up, and the copy packs a lot into very few words. As far as clear communication goes, it doesn't get better than that.

How to write a call to action

Your call to action should be unique, specific to where it's featured as well as your particular audience and targets. That said, the best CTAs do share some characteristics that you can apply wherever they may be. 

1. Provide an incentive

If you're looking for one secret to effective CTAs, here it is: give them a reason to click, share, or hand over their email address . More important than the wording, placement, or color of your CTA is the underlying incentive a person has to follow it. How will answering your call to action help them? 

A good call to action restates its benefit bluntly and succinctly. 

If you're offering a discount, remind them what percentage. 

If they're getting a free PDF, mention the words "free" and "PDF." 

If you're using a standard link, typically you write the incentive in your CTA's anchor text (the clickable text). In the case of social media posts and ads, you should reserve the last line in your message for your call to action, so mention any benefits there.

2. Be transparent

For starters, say exactly what will happen when you click. Remove all mystery with specifics. For example, saying "start your download automatically" is more descriptive than "click here to download." (For button CTAs, with limited space, you can include secondary text nearby.)

You want to acknowledge any user doubts and assuage their fears. If visitors are worried about security, they're not going to click, so reassure them that you understand their concerns. One of the big fears, in the case of email signups, is spam. You might want to gently remind visitors that you won't share their information and that you'll only email them once a week, twice a month, or whatever the case is, to keep their imagination in check.  

You can build trust just by being upfront about everything from the beginning. You'll find people are more receptive to your CTA pitches when they know precisely what to expect. 

3. Use powerful language

Don't be shy about calls to action! Some people soften their language to avoid being pushy, but CTAs should be strong and unapologetic. After all, if you followed rule #1 (incentive), then what you're offering is beneficial to the visitor. 

That's not to say you should be rude or demanding (please don't); there's a perfect balance somewhere in there between a strong suggestion and a forceful command. Above all, the reader must always feel they have a choice—your call to action is there to convince them of the choice you think they should make. 

Share this post

Join our newsletter

Subscribe for more deals

Find your favorite

This makes the statement sound stronger, and at the same time, clearly communicates what the user should do. 

Likewise, avoid wording that weakens your call to action, including "please" (no matter what Grammarly tells you) and modifiers like "could" and "would." There's a time and place for gentle language, but calls to action are not one of them.

Word choice is important to CTAs, not only for making a persuasive argument, but also for fitting the space allotted.

4. Evaluate performance

Last but not least, you should evaluate how successful your final call to action is and identify room for improvement. Creating your CTA may feel like a lot of guesswork and shooting in the dark—because it is. Testing it is much more clear-cut. 

To get a basic idea of your CTA's performance, take a look at your analytics. Compare the page traffic to the number of conversions, and see what percentage of your total visitors clicked. 

If your conversion rate is significantly lower, it's worth doing an A/B test on your design and copy. Try two different versions of your call to action, experimenting with different phrasing, colors, or fonts, and see which one performs better with your target audience. It's the most efficient way to reveal what works and what doesn't with concrete, empirical data, ensuring your CTA resonates with the target audience and drives the desired action.

CTA design best practices

If you're placing your call to action on a web page or other content you design yourself, you want to place it at the top of your visual hierarchy. Your CTA should be the most noticeable element on the page. To achieve this, you want to pull out all your design tricks:

Contrasting colors: CTAs should generally contrast with the rest of the page's design. Visitors shouldn't have to work to find what to do next. Use a vibrant color for your CTA, especially against a dull background. Can you spot it from six feet away? Good.

Optimal size: Make the button and text larger than the surrounding elements but not so large that it overwhelms other content. It should also be easily clickable, especially on mobile devices.

Clear typography: Use a legible font that complements your brand. Ensure the text is large enough to read but doesn't crowd the button. You can play with typography to emphasize key words. Commonly, operative words like "free" are set in a different color or sometimes even a different font to attract more attention.

Negative space: Surround your call to action with plenty of negative, or empty, space. Setting your CTA apart from the other elements makes it more noticeable and gives it more importance in the eyes of your visitors.

Emoji use: Some brands find success with emojis, but if you choose that approach, remember that a little goes a long way.

Consistent styling: While CTAs should stand out, they should still align with your brand's overall design aesthetic. Consistency in design builds trust.

Improve your CTAs now, free! 

While my dad's approach might have lacked the finesse of a well-designed button or the allure of clever copy, the sentiment was clear. And that's the heart of every good CTA. Whether you're nudging a visitor to make a purchase or nudging your offspring out of the nest, the principle remains the same. CTAs are about engaging your audience, prompting action, and, occasionally, a very pointed reminder to update your LinkedIn profile.

Call to action FAQ

Or, as they say in the biz, "CTA FAQ." Because there's no such thing as too many three-letter acronyms. L-O-L. 

Why are CTAs important in marketing?

Calls to action provide your audience with a clear sense of direction, guiding them toward specific actions like making a purchase, signing up for a newsletter, or downloading a resource. They tap into the Action > Reward system that our brains thrive on, offering satisfaction—like pressing an elevator button. This inherent desire for interaction can be leveraged by crafting compelling CTAs that prompt users to engage further.

What makes a call to action effective? The effectiveness of a CTA depends on its copy, design, placement, and relevance to the user. For example, depending on your audience, the phrase "Snag your copy" might resonate with a larger group than something more generic, like "Download now." Or, if someone visiting your eCommerce store is a first-time browser, they're likely not ready to click "Buy now." But they might be curious enough to click "Learn more."

Identify which action(s) will bring the most value to your business, then use your CTA to steer users in the right direction.

Where should I place my CTAs on my website?

Place your CTAs where they'll catch the attention of viewers on your website. Think of them as your own personal billboards by the highway advertising the closest Subway… and your viewers want sandwiches.  

Key locations include the top of landing pages, within the middle of content, or at the end of blog posts. Use contrasting colors and surround them with negative space to make them stand out. This will help encourage viewers to click. 

How can I test the effectiveness of my CTAs?

One way to test CTA effectiveness is to use A/B testing with different designs or wording. Take two versions of your CTA and pit them against each other to see which one gets more clicks. Set a time limit and monitor performance over that time to see which performs better. You can also do this by comparing other types of campaigns or tracking conversion rates against benchmarks. 

Related reading:

This article was originally published in November 2023. The most recent update, with contributions from Abigail Sims, was in November 2024.

Get productivity tips delivered straight to your inbox

We’ll email you 1-3 times per week—and never share your information.

Allisa Boulette

Based in New England, Allisa is a content marketer and small business owner who hopes to make the internet a more interesting place than she found it. When she’s not working, you can find her lying very still not doing anything.

Related articles

How sales and marketing teams actually use Salesforce products

How sales and marketing teams actually use...

Automation inspiration

5 ways to automate Pardot with Zapier

The 12 best AI marketing tools in 2025

How to use ChatGPT for market research

The 7 marketing calendar templates you need (+ examples)

The 7 marketing calendar templates you need...

16 examples of how to surprise and delight your customers

16 examples of how to surprise and delight...

5 ways to automate your marketing and sales ops processes

5 ways to automate your marketing and sales...

The 13 best campaign management software tools in 2024

The 13 best campaign management software...

Improve your productivity automatically. Use Zapier to get your apps working together.

7 Call to Action Examples You Have Never Seen Before

Disclosure:  Our content is reader-supported, which means we earn commissions from links on Crazy Egg. Commissions do not affect our editorial evaluations or opinions.

At great risk to my sanity, I went to find call to action examples (CTAs) that were fresh, original, unique, and compelling.

My discovery: Almost everyone is using generic CTAs. Safe, boring, and forgettable.

The 7 innovative call to action examples I found made those brands stand out immediately.

Your opportunity: By changing 2-3 words of a call to action, brands can stand out in a small way from the hopelessly ordinary competition.

Less than 0.00001% of CTAs Are Unique

This is not a scientific number. I came up with it out of spite after an exhausting search.

Refresh the examples in a listicle about calls to action, my editor said. 

I thought this was going to be easy.

It was a nightmare. 

Websites for brands large and small were universally boring in terms of calls to action. The most tantalizing offer I could find was usually “Free Trial”, which brought me to a page with miles of fine print. 

I thought maybe the aggressive pay-per-click advertisers would put together some compelling calls to action. Nope. The name of the game there is using every conversion hack at once. 

Here’s a typically boring call to action example that most people are using :

I think this offer hits every cliche tactic: the ticking clock, a warning emoji about sell-out risk, money-back guarantee, a steep discount, etc.

Then I tried social media, which was even worse. Facebook gave me nothing in the way of an inventive CTA. Absolutely nothing.

I checked Reddit–as always, a wonderful place, just not for buying things.

On X (fka: Twitter), I was hoping to find some good scammy infoproducts, maybe some clever hardsells. But I was disappointed. I could have made a full quilt that spelled out “unoriginal” with all the thread emojis inviting me to click and read a tweet-storm. Here’s why that trend is played out: 🧵/23

My wife told me that TikTok has been ruined by advertisers and influencers–so I was really excited about that. This is where the real ingenuity must be. 

Nope. It’s a simple SHOP button that overlays influencer videos. That’s it.

But in the end, I prevailed. I found 7 examples of brands actually trying something new with their call to action. They used this small detail to support their brand image or speak to their audience.

7 Truly Unique Call to Action Examples

1. cloudflare.

“Under attack?”

That is a viable button you can click on Cloudflare’s site. 

I love it. 

Cloudflare has positioned themselves as a cybersecurity version of calling 911 when there’s an intruder in your house. And they did it using two words, a question mark, and a construction-zone orange button in the navbar.

I assume the majority of people who click that button are like me: not currently under attack, but curious about what the next steps would be if they were.

I wanted to learn more because of the clever call to action. If the button had said Learn More, I never would have clicked it.

2. Backcountry

The online outdoor retailer Backcountry hires the people who stay up around the fire fighting about which hiking stove weighs less. You know the type: Gearheads.

This is a huge selling point for Backcountry. When people buy kayaks, avalanche beacons, and so on, they really want to know that this gear works.

Call a Gearhead. Text a Gearhead. These are creative, on-brand calls to action nested in a familiar dropdown menu.

You have a question about climbing rope? Now you are talking with a woman who climbs 3 times a week. 

3. LINGs CARS.com

This is actually a fairly tame example of the calls to action on LINGsCARS.com , one of the most successful car leasing services in the UK. 

Ling broke every rule of web design to bring us this masterpiece. I know neons are in right now, but most people aren’t using all of the neons, at once, with a paisley background. 

CrazyEgg will lock me out of WordPress if I actually recommend a call to action that includes three Order Now buttons that blink at random intervals. So I am not going to do that.

I will say with 100% certainty, however, that I have never seen call to action examples quite like this ever before. 

4. Niki Whittle

Niki Whittle is an online personal stylist who has helped thousands of clients find joy instead of anxiety at the prospect of getting dressed and going out into the world.

The text of her CTA button speaks directly to that goal: Help me enjoy getting dressed!

If you swapped out Niki’s personalized text for a basic “Find Out More” button, I think the call to action would suffer. 

Her choice of text is intimate. No adult is going to ask for help getting dressed unless they fully trust the other party to understand where they are coming from. The way that Niki has framed the call to action shows that she understands. 

Due to California regulations, the beverage brand Ceria couldn’t exactly say what their new product was. With the help of the marketing agency Mother, Ceria found a clever way to get their audience to connect.

The call to action they used was a Spotify playlist people could download by scanning a barcode styled like the familiar Spotify audio waveform.

There’s a cool story behind this ad campaign, which appeared online and in-print in California. 

I’m not going to rehash it here because you should go visit the site of the people who did the work , not hear about it third-hand, looking at screenshots I took while I was way behind schedule writing this post.

6. AllTrails

Have you ever seen a limited time offer that isn’t pushy?

AllTrails nails it with this email they sent me. If I go outside, this weekend only , they’ll plant a tree on my behalf.

It’s a positive push, encouraging me to do something for my health, and it won’t cost me a dime. Until AllTrails called me to action, I just had weekend plans. Now I am saving the forest. 

The invitation to “Join In” isn’t super original, I know, even with those cute little tree icons.

But the call to action is social. It’s not “Register” or “Find out more”, it’s about connecting with other people. AllTrails has 50 million users. This is a real community, and AllTrails is smart to frame it that way. 

7. Avocado Green Mattress

Avocado Green Mattress has upcycled bedroom furniture people can buy to complement their organic mattresses.

The call to action is “Shop Zero Waste” is a clear call to the type of buyer who is willing to pay a premium to minimize their impact on the environment. “Shop” would work, but it doesn’t highlight the key selling point of their furniture.

It’s a small detail, but most people buying online have 5-7 tabs open. I know I do. With buyers scanning all these different sites, I think it makes sense to foreground your unique features in the button text.

More Call To Action Examples

Here are some twists on classic calls to action. I can’t say I’d never seen these types of tactics before, but the following examples are well done.

The call to action text speaks to the audience, aligns with the brand image, or is simply more inviting than a generic “Try Now” button.

Kati Curtis Design

Kati Curtis Design opted for a slight variation on the Get In Touch call to action by including her name. 

I’m not going to belabor the point about what’s going on here, but this slight personalization will absolutely stand out.

I think this is a good idea if you are the face of your business as opposed to a brand. “Get In Touch With The Owner” could work, too.

Havenly is an online interior design service company. I liked the invitation for customers to “Find Their Style.” 

They could have stuck with “Learn More” or “Book a Consultation,” but those aren’t personal at all. Those are also fairly passive calls to action, versus “Find Your Style,” which is much more active.

Birchbox , the popular cosmetics subscription box opted to use an invitation style call to action:

“Build Your Box”

It’s intuitive, on-brand, and crisp. 

One issue people have with subscription services is that they get products they don’t want. With this short call to action, Birchbox is countering that objection by offering their customers an active role in building their own box. 

Art & Logic

Art & Logic is a software development company with an approachable call to action.

Yes, they decided to go with “Let’s talk about your project” instead of something sterile or gimmicky.

Building custom business software is insanely complex, but Art & Logic makes the next steps as easy as possible.

Peter works in marketing and lead generation. He has been involved on the backend of the Crazy Egg blog since 2020. Occasionally, they let him write a post.

Related Posts

Direct Response Marketing vs Branding: When to Use Each

Direct response marketing is a set of techniques, copywriting methods, and advertising strategies designed to elicit an immediate response from your target audience, like subscribing...

Read Post »

137 Power Words That Every Well-Paid Writer Knows

When your writing has to do something, every single word must pull its weight. This is why writers like me keep track of words that...

71 Headline Examples to Break Your Worst Writer’s Block

The secret of writing a great headline is to steal inspiration and adapt it. This is why the best copywriters keep a handy swipe file....

Direct Response Copywriting: Classic Examples + Tips

Direct response copywriting is a marketing technique where you speak directly to your customers, encouraging them to take action now instead of later. It can...

Make your website better. Instantly.

Over 400,000 websites use Crazy Egg to improve what's working, fix what isn't and test new ideas.

Last Updated on December 28, 2024

100 CTAs: Call to Action Examples to Jumpstart Your Brainstorming

Call-to-actions (CTAs) are the unsung heroes of engagement. They guide users toward desired actions, whether it’s signing up for a newsletter, downloading an app, or making a purchase. But crafting ones that convert? That’s where many marketers and business owners hit a wall. And so, today, we’ll untangle the CTA meaning, explore their importance across digital platforms, and give you a 100 call-to-action examples categorized by use case to help jumpstart your brainstorming. Let’s dive in.

TLDR; Contents

What Does Call to Action Mean?

A call to action (CTA) is a prompt that encourages users to perform a specific action. From buttons and banners to inline text, CTAs are essential touchpoints in digital marketing and UX design that drive conversions.

Examples include:

• “Sign Up Today”
• “Download the Guide”
• “Learn More”

The clearer and more compelling your CTAs, the better they’ll perform.

Where and Why CTAs Matter

CTAs may seem like small elements on a webpage or app interface, but their influence ripples across both business outcomes and user experience. A well-crafted one does more than just drive clicks—it anchors the interaction between a brand and its audience, shaping how users navigate digital spaces and make decisions.

Every platform has its own audience behavior, content format, and user intent. Crafting an effective call-to-action requires understanding these nuances:

• On websites , they should guide users across pages with a clear goal.
• In emails , they need to balance brevity with compelling offers.
• On social media , they should spark quick, shareable interactions.
• For ads , they must align with campaign objectives and the funnel stage.
• In mobile apps , they need to integrate seamlessly into the user journey.

Websites: Driving Discovery and Conversions

On in web design , CTAs are critical for guiding users through the customer journey, without which websites risk high bounce rates and low engagement, leaving users confused about their next steps. Whether it’s nudging visitors to “Sign Up for a Free Trial” or “Learn More About Our Services,” CTAs create touchpoints that:

• Boost conversions: Clear CTAs help turn visitors into leads or customers by reducing friction in the decision-making process.
• Improve navigation: Strategic placement keep users engaged and encourage deeper exploration of the site.
• Support business goals: From generating leads to promoting specific campaigns, CTAs align with measurable outcomes like sales or signups.

Emails: Elevating Engagement and Click-Through Rates

CTAs are the linchpin of email marketing campaigns. A single, action-oriented phrase like “Get 20% Off Today” can significantly impact:

• Click-through rates (CTR): Emails with prominent CTAs see higher CTRs because they clearly direct the reader to the next step.
• Campaign performance: Whether the goal is to drive traffic to a landing page, increase product awareness, or promote a seasonal sale, CTAs measure the effectiveness of your outreach.
• User trust and loyalty: Well-designed, relevant CTAs help recipients see value in your communications, fostering positive brand relationships.

Without CTAs, emails risk feeling incomplete, leaving subscribers unsure of what to do next. But there is such a thing as too many CTAs, which can get confusing—emails featuring a single, clear CTA can increase clicks by 371% and boost sales by 1,617% , underscoring the impact of focused messaging

Social Media: Amplifying Engagement and Driving Traffic

On social platforms, calls-to-action play a dual role in encouraging both engagement and off-platform actions. Phrases like “Shop Now” or “Tag a Friend” can:

• Increase platform engagement: Prompting sers to comment, like, or share boost algorithmic visibility and brand reach.
• Drive website traffic: Direct-response CTAs link users to blogs, product pages, or event signups, bridging the gap between discovery and conversion.
• Support campaigns:  Social appeara nce amplifies the impact of product launches, limited-time offers, and promotions.

Ads: Maximizing ROI and User Action

In paid advertising, CTAs are essential for justifying ad spend. Without strong CTAs like “Shop the Collection” or “Sign Up Free,” even the most visually appealing ads can fall flat, resulting in wasted budgets and low campaign performance. Effective CTAs:

• Optimize ROI: Clear calls-to-action ensure that ad impressions translate into measurable clicks or sales.
• Align with user intent: Tailored CTAs match the user’s stage in the funnel, from discovery (“Learn More”) to decision-making (“Buy Now”).
• Improve ad relevance: Platforms like Google Ads reward relevant CTAs with higher Quality Scores, reducing cost-per-click (CPC).

Mobile Apps: Enhancing Usability and Retention

For mobile apps , CTAs are essential for guiding users through features, prompting upgrades, and ensuring seamless navigation. Examples like “Enable Notifications” or “Get Premium Access” impact:

• User onboarding: Clear CTAs during onboarding help users understand app functionality and adopt features quickly.
• Monetization: CTAs encourage in-app purchases or subscriptions, directly affecting revenue.
• Retention: Prompts like “Complete Your Profile” or “Check Your Rewards” keep users engaged and returning to the app.

Without intuitive CTAs, mobile apps risk high churn rates and low feature adoption.

UX Impacts: Clarity, Flow, and Satisfaction

From a UX/UI design perspective, CTAs are about more than words—they’re about creating a seamless, intuitive experience for the user. Good CTAs:

• Reduce cognitive load: By simplifying decision-making, CTAs prevent users from feeling overwhelmed or stuck.
• Enhance usability : Well-placed CTAs contribute to smooth navigation and logical user flows.
• Increase user satisfaction: CTAs that anticipate user needs and provide value foster positive experiences.

On the flip side, poor or absent CTAs frustrate users, lead to drop-offs, and harm the overall experience.

The Transaction Behind Clicking a CTA

Clicking a CTA is more than an interaction—it’s a value exchange . Users evaluate CTAs based on the balance between effort and reward :

• How much time or energy does this require?
• Will it cause inconvenience (e.g., spam emails)?
• What do I gain from this action?
• Is the promised value worth my click?

The promise of value must outweigh the perceived cost for users to take action. Without this balance, CTAs fail to engage.

Psychological Motivations to Click CTAs

Here’s what drives users to act:

• Example CTA: “Get Your Free Guide to Better Sleep”
• Example CTA: “Discover the Secret to Success”
• Example CTA: “Last Chance—Shop the Sale!”
• Example CTA: “Try Risk-Free for 30 Days”
• Example CTA: “Take Charge of Your Finances Today”

How to Make CTAs Effective

Here are some best practices to craft CTAs that convert:

• ✅ “Download Your Free Report”
• ❌ “Click Here”
• “Sign Up Before It’s Too Late!”
• “Limited Time Offer: Shop Now”
• Use Tailored Messaging : Personalized CTAs have been shown to perform 202% better than basic ones.
• “Start Your Free Trial”
• “Discover More Today”
• Tailor CTAs to Your Audience: Customize your tone and value proposition to resonate with your target user.
• Design for Visibility: Make CTAs visually stand out with contrasting colors and strong fonts.

100 Call to Action Examples

Call to action examples by use case.

Call to Action Examples by Industry

Final Thoughts

CTAs are the ultimate tool for bridging user interest with business goals. By understanding the CTA meaning, optimizing for platform and industry, and leveraging psychological drivers, you can create CTAs that compel action and deliver value. Because the right CTA doesn’t just get clicks—it builds trust, delivers value, and drives results.

Now, with all that said, we know we covered a lot—so if you have more questions about improving your website,  reach out to us ! As your friendly neighborhood  digital product agency  and web developers , we’d love to help 🙂

Latest Articles View All

Jan 16, 2025

CEO Spotlight: How to Validate a Concept Before Having a Product

Jan 09, 2025

The Hidden Challenges That Cause Startups To Fail Early

Dec 04, 2024

Startup Product Development: A Comprehensive Guide

Get our newsletter.