First impressions are critical, especially when it comes to your digital publications. You need to make sure that your readers say “Wow!” when they first see your Zmag creations. Otherwise, they’ll quickly click off and head for another site that’s more exciting—and perhaps never come back.

The fact is, a smooth, stylish, exciting look to your digital publications will make a lasting impression on your readers and keep them looking for more content. Just ask Apple Computer, whose website is one of the most frequented on the entire Internet.

So how can you ensure that your viewers are thrilled with your Zmags? Here are seven tips that successful Zmags users recommend for creating highly engaging online digital publications with Zmags software.

Tip #1: Build a Great Viewer

The best way to engage with your customer is to create well-balanced publications that have the right mix of graphics and color. Make sure your colors are complementary. For instance, don’t mix a bright blue with a bright green, or you’ll overwhelm the page.

Also, consider using a background image such as a landscape or an abstract design. But keep in mind that the image is just a background! For instance, a golf course publication could add a golf landscape. Or perhaps integrate your logo if it is visually appealing. That way, you reinforce your company’s brand at the same time.

Always keep in mind that while there are lots of Zmags capabilities, you don’t have to use them all. Pick and choose carefully, as using every feature will give your digital publication a cluttered look. A simple and clean publication can sometimes be more powerful than a mish-mash of uncoordinated visuals and color.

Tip #2: Design Your Publication for Digital Viewing

It’s a good idea to optimize your digital publications for online viewing. That means you should use landscape orientation and not portrait. Additionally, you should increase the font size of the original publication and avoid using zoom.

According to recent research, publications that are designed for online viewing deliver 12% more reading time per reader. Also, optimized publications are able to contain more pages, which lead to more reading time. However, keep in mind that publications with more than 100 pages are not recommended.

Tip #3: Enrich Your Content with Rich Media

It’s a good idea to enrich your publications with active links and complementary video. One video per page is recommended. Some of the most common video elements include Motion, Read Me, Icons, Animated Logos, Buy Now, and Arrows.

Tip #4: Use Optimized Content (Flash/Video)

Whenever adding Flash or video to your digital publications, keep in mind that your viewers may not be using state-of-the-art electronic equipment. To ensure fast performance and quick load times, use optimized Flash or video content so as not to annoy your readers.

Tip #5: Use Flash and/or Video on Intro Page

Another powerful way to get the attention of the reader and to communicate relevant information is by using Flash or video on your intro page. For instance, a golf magazine could use a flyover of Pebble Beach.

Tip #6: Put Links to Featured Cover Stories Inside Your Digital Publication

Your feature stories include some of the most important information in your publication. These articles often contain important announcements about new products, special offers, contests, upcoming events, and other information that you want your readers to be aware of.

Tip #7: Ask Readers to Interact

There are a number of ways to directly interact with your customers while they’re viewing your digital publications, the most popular of which is to add sharing buttons within your publication. By doing this, you can generate high quality leads with some of your most valuable prospects and customers.

Another popular way to interact with readers is by highlighting clickable ads that are sure to gain a response. Conducting surveys and polls is another way to interact with customers, as people are always willing to give their opinion on just about anything. Lastly, it’s always a good idea to encourage readers to share articles with friends and colleagues.

By practicing these valuable tips when creating your Zmags digital publications, you’ll find that your readers stay engaged longer, have a much more positive experience with your publications, and are much more likely to interact with your organization.

Want to see the Zmags voted as the best? Check out the new Zmags Showcase.

Mike Conord is Customer Success Manager at Zmags. Learn more Zmags Best Practices by following Mike on Twitter.