In the ever-evolving world of digital marketing click here, user experience, and search engine optimization (SEO), the phrase “click here” has become a common, almost default, call-to-action (CTA). While it may seem harmless or even helpful at a glance, this two-word prompt holds significant influence over how users interact with web pages—and how websites perform in search engine rankings.
This article delves deep into the phrase “click here,” uncovering its implications, advantages, drawbacks, and best practices for use in the digital landscape.
What Does “Click Here” Really Mean?
At its most basic, “click here” is a call to action—an instruction prompting users to interact with a website by clicking a hyperlink. It’s a straightforward directive that usually leads users to another page, a file download, a video, or additional content.
You’ve seen it everywhere:
-
“To learn more, click here.”
-
“Click here to download the report.”
-
“Need help? Click here to contact support.”
But despite its ubiquity, its usefulness is hotly debated among web designers, content creators, marketers, and SEO professionals.
Why Is “Click Here” So Popular?
The popularity of “click here” can be traced to its clarity and universality. It:
-
Instructs the user clearly: There’s no ambiguity—you're expected to click a link.
-
Works across all devices: Even though “click” may sound desktop-specific, users still understand what to do, whether they’re on a mobile, tablet, or desktop.
-
Feels familiar: It’s a widely recognized phrase that people instinctively understand.
However, just because something is familiar doesn’t mean it’s the best choice.
SEO and Accessibility: The Hidden Dangers of “Click Here”
1. SEO Impact
Search engines like Google use anchor text (the clickable text in a hyperlink) to determine the context and relevance of the linked page. If your anchor text is always “click here,” search engines gain no semantic information about the destination page.
Compare these two examples:
-
Poor SEO:
“For our full pricing list, click here.” -
Good SEO:
“See our complete pricing list for details.”
In the second example, the anchor text includes keywords relevant to the destination page. This not only helps with SEO but also provides more context for users.
2. Accessibility
Screen readers used by visually impaired users often list out links on a page. When all links say “click here,” the experience becomes frustrating and unintuitive.
Consider this list of links read by a screen reader:
-
“Click here”
-
“Click here”
-
“Click here”
Now compare that to:
-
“Download the annual report”
-
“Visit our support page”
-
“Read the full case study”
The latter is far more helpful for all users, especially those relying on assistive technology.
User Experience (UX) Considerations
From a UX perspective, “click here” might work in some contexts, especially if accompanied by strong surrounding text. But in general, users prefer scannable, meaningful, and action-oriented links.
1. Scannability
Users don’t read websites word-for-word—they scan. Descriptive link text like “Download free eBook” stands out more and is instantly informative.
2. Action-Oriented Language
Using verbs related to the action the user will take—like “Download,” “Register,” “Watch,” or “Explore”—creates stronger engagement.
3. Mobile Considerations
With mobile usage dominating web traffic, the term “click” can feel outdated. Mobile users tap or swipe, not click. While users still understand what “click here” means, alternatives like “Tap to view the report” or “Explore more” feel more natural and mobile-friendly.
When “Click Here” Might Be Acceptable
Though generally discouraged in professional writing and SEO practices, there are moments where “click here” may be appropriate:
-
In informal settings: For casual emails or internal documents where SEO and accessibility aren’t priorities.
-
When supported by strong context: If the link is surrounded by detailed text explaining what’s being offered.
-
For very specific CTAs: In cases where “click here” is part of a larger sentence that is already keyword-rich and meaningful.
Still, it should be used sparingly—and always thoughtfully.
Alternatives to “Click Here”
If you’re looking to replace “click here” with something more effective, here are some good alternatives:
| Action | Instead of “Click Here,” Try: |
|---|---|
| Learn More | “Learn more about our services” |
| Download | “Download the full guide” |
| Contact | “Contact our team today” |
| Watch | “Watch the demo video” |
| Subscribe | “Subscribe to our newsletter” |
| Read | “Read the full article” |
These alternatives do more than direct—they describe and persuade.
How to Optimize Hyperlinks for SEO and UX
Here are a few best practices to keep in mind when using links on your website or digital content:
-
Use descriptive anchor text: Describe exactly what users will find when they click the link.
-
Keep it concise: Don’t overcomplicate; keep anchor text short and to the point.
-
Make it stand out: Use color, underline, or hover effects so it’s clear the text is clickable.
-
Ensure mobile usability: Make sure your links are easy to tap on mobile devices.
-
Don’t overuse links: Too many links on a page can feel spammy and confusing.
Conclusion: Is “Click Here” Dead?
Not entirely. “Click here” is not wrong—but in today’s digital ecosystem, clarity, context, and accessibility matter more than ever. As SEO grows more sophisticated and users expect faster, more meaningful interactions, content creators must rise to the occasion.
The goal of any hyperlink is not just to invite action—but to guide the user intuitively and informatively. That means rethinking lazy CTAs and replacing them with meaningful, relevant, and engaging anchor text.
So next time you’re tempted to write “click here,” ask yourself:
What will the user gain by clicking?
Then tell them that—right in the link.