Startup Website Rules

A comprehensive set of rules for building high-converting, trustworthy, and effective startup websites. Apply these when creating, reviewing, or iterating on landing pages and marketing sites.

When to Use

• Building a new startup landing page or marketing site
• Reviewing an existing homepage for effectiveness
• Improving conversion, clarity, or trust signals on a site
• Auditing copy, CTAs, layout, animation, or social proof

1. First Impressions & The 5-Second Rule