Eliminating Barriers That Stop First-Time Buyers

Why Friction Kills First Sales

If someone’s never bought from you before, even the tiniest speed bump can stop them.
It’s not that they don’t want what you’re offering — it’s that a confusing checkout, too many clicks, or unanswered questions make them think, “I’ll do it later.”

And we both know “later” rarely happens.

Your job? Remove every single barrier between “I’m interested” and “I’m in.”

Make It Mobile-Friendly First

Here’s the truth: a huge chunk of your buyers are seeing your offer for the first time on their phone.
If your checkout isn’t mobile-friendly, you’re losing sales before you even know they were there.

On Squarespace, this is easy — most templates are automatically responsive. But always run through your checkout on your own phone to make sure:

• Text is easy to read without zooming.

• Buttons are big enough to tap easily.

• Nothing feels cramped or broken.

Keep the Clicks to a Minimum

Every extra step is a chance for someone to drop off.
The goal: from “Buy” button to confirmation page in as few clicks as humanly possible.

• Skip unnecessary forms.

• Don’t make them create an account unless they need one.

• Put the checkout button in a spot they don’t have to scroll to find.

Be Clear on What They Get

A confused buyer doesn’t buy.
Spell out exactly what’s included, when they’ll get it, and how they’ll access it.

Think of it like answering the question they’re too shy to ask: “So… what happens after I pay?”

Answer Objections Before They Come Up

First-time buyers have a million little hesitations.

• “What if it’s not for me?”

• “How do I get help if I’m stuck?”

• “Will I actually have time for this?”

Address these right on the checkout page.
Offer a guarantee, list support options, and keep your language human — not corporate.

Pro Tip for Squarespace Users

Squarespace lets you customize your checkout form and confirmation page. Use that space to:

• Reassure them with a short “You’re in good hands” message.

• Restate exactly what they just bought.

• Link them straight to their next step so they don’t feel lost.

Final Word

Your first-time buyers are on the fence by default.
The easier you make it for them to step over, the more of them will do it — and the faster you’ll turn “just looking” into “just bought.”