10 Exit Intent Popup Best Practices That Actually Work
Learn the proven strategies that top Shopify stores use to convert abandoning visitors into customers.
Best Practices Article
Why Exit Intent Popups Matter
Exit intent popups are one of the most powerful tools in your conversion optimization arsenal. When implemented correctly, they can help reduce cart abandonment and recover visitors who would otherwise leave your site forever.
The 10 Best Practices
1. Time Your Popup Perfectly
Don't show your exit intent popup too early. Give visitors at least 30 seconds to explore your site before triggering the popup.
2. Offer Real Value
Generic "Subscribe to our newsletter" popups don't work. Offer specific value like a discount code, free shipping, or exclusive content.
3. Use Compelling Headlines
Your headline should immediately communicate the benefit. Instead of "Don't leave yet!", try "Get 15% off your first order before you go".
4. Keep Forms Simple
Only ask for essential information. Email address is usually enough for the initial capture.
5. Create Urgency
Use phrases like "Limited time offer" or "Only available today" to create urgency without being pushy.
6. Design for Mobile
Over 60% of traffic is mobile. Ensure your exit intent popups are fully responsive and thumb-friendly.
7. Test Different Triggers
Besides mouse movement, test time-based triggers, scroll depth, or pages visited.
8. Segment Your Audience
Show different popups to first-time visitors vs. returning customers vs. cart abandoners.
9. A/B Test Everything
Test headlines, offers, colors, timing, and copy. Small changes can lead to significant improvements.
10. Honor User Intent
If someone clicks "No thanks", don't show the same popup again on that session.
Measuring Success
Track conversion rates, email signups, and revenue attribution to measure the effectiveness of your exit intent campaigns.