Sign-up seduction

Signing up users to try a new web service or application is a huge challenge today. Users have burnt-out trying dozens of new services, ending up with clogged mail boxes filled with useless notification messages and spam. Viral invites from friends are also viewed with suspicion, as application designers trick unsuspecting new users into spamming their friends, as soon as they instal and try a new application.

Trying to sign-up and filling yet another long form and a profile page is a sure turn-off. What works now is the art of seduction. If you are staring at 50% + bounce rates on your home page, try engaging users to start using your application and use persuasive communication to acquire the minimal sign-up information. Once in through the gates, the user is likely to be more engaged and just may give your application some serious consideration.