Essential Website Feedback from YC’s Garry Tan
Cursor, Replit, Lovable, Bolt.
If you’re into IT or startups, chances are you've heard of these services. Stories of people using tools like these to build products and make money in just one day aren't even surprising anymore.
Yes, technology has dramatically reduced the time and cost of creating digital services. But lower barriers mean fiercer competition. How can you make your service stand out in such a crowded marketplace? The answer begins at your service's first impression: the homepage (or landing page).
This article is based on direct feedback from Garry Tan, president of Y Combinator, who reviewed AI startup websites and shared key insights. Here are the crucial points Garry emphasized for building an effective homepage:
1. What is this? & Is it for me?
When users first visit your homepage, they immediately ask two questions: “What exactly is this?” and “Is it something I need?”
Vague statements (e.g., A service that will change the world) or overly general descriptions (e.g., AI email service) won’t quickly communicate the value. Your homepage should clearly and concisely explain what your service does and convince visitors that it’s meant specifically for them, all within seconds.
2. Avoid extra clicks and get to the “Aha Moment” quickly
People generally find clicking around tedious. Excessive clicks quickly increase drop-off rates. Instead, use concise videos or instant demos to quickly communicate the value of your service, guiding your users directly to their "aha" moment. Immediate experiences or direct demonstrations are essential for capturing your audience's interest and attention.
Example: Homepage before feedback / Homepage after feedback
3. Figure out your main KPI
What specific action do you want your visitors to take on your homepage?
Is it signing up for a free account, trying a demo, or scheduling a consultation? This goal must be crystal clear. Avoid confusing your users with mixed calls-to-action like "Try Beta," "Learn More," and "Join the Waitlist" on the same page.
Define your key performance indicator (KPI) clearly and structure your Call to Action (CTA) around it. Highlight your primary CTA with distinctive colors or sizes. Remember, your homepage is a tool to achieve your goal, not a brochure listing every feature.
4. Use concrete claims and focus on specific use cases
Concrete figures like "Save 29%" or "34% faster performance" instantly boost credibility and persuasive power. Similarly, social proof from real users can significantly enhance trust.
Rather than generic descriptions that appeal to everyone, focus on specific use cases tailored to particular customer segments. Demonstrating how your service solves precise problems for targeted groups will instantly resonate with your audience.
Write your homepage for your customers
The primary focus of your homepage should be clearly communicating the value your customers will gain from your service. Engage in conversations with your actual customers (talk to users) to understand how they perceive and describe your service. Then, use their exact words on your homepage. Aim to align the image existing customers have with the impression first-time visitors get.
Always remember, your homepage isn’t made for you. it's made for your customers.
