In the fast-paced world of digital journalism, establishing trust and engagement with your readers is more important than ever. Whether you're running a hyperlocal epaper, a regional daily, or a niche news portal, one simple yet powerful feature can make a huge difference — your Contact Page.

Unfortunately, many small publishers and digital newspapers overlook this vital section. In this blog post, we’ll explore why having a dedicated Contact Page is not just important — it’s essential for the growth and credibility of your news or epaper website. 

1. Builds Trust and Transparency

Trust is the foundation of journalism. When readers visit your website and find a clear way to contact your team, it signals transparency. It reassures them that there are real people behind the stories, and that you're open to feedback, corrections, and dialogue.

A Contact Page shows:

• You're accountable.

• You're open to criticism or corrections.

• You value your readers' opinions. 

2. Enables Reader Feedback and Tips

Many powerful news stories start with a tip from an everyday citizen. Your readers might have valuable insights, leads, or clarifications to share — but if they can’t reach you, that information is lost.

A contact page makes it easy for:

• Citizens to submit story tips.

• Readers to report factual errors.

• Locals to share events or updates. 

3. Supports Business and Advertising Inquiries

News websites — especially regional ones — can be a valuable platform for local businesses to advertise. But if your website lacks a contact page, you’re missing out on potential revenue.

Your Contact Page should include:

• Business inquiry email or phone number.

• A form or section for advertising requests.

• Optional media kit download. 

4. Helps with Legal and Press Communications

If you're publishing news, legal clarity is vital. Your Contact Page gives legal teams, press agencies, or government bodies a direct line to communicate in case of:

• Legal notices.

• Clarification on articles.

• Press collaborations or PR requests.

Having this in place reduces legal risk and keeps you professional. 

5. Boosts SEO and Website Credibility

From an SEO perspective, having a Contact Page with structured data (such as your business name, phone, and location) can:

• Improve your local search presence.

• Boost your credibility in Google's ranking system.

• Show up in Google’s Knowledge Panel or local listings. 

6. Improves User Experience

Good websites provide a seamless journey for users. A contact page:

• Helps users find support quickly.

• Prevents frustration.

• Increases time spent on your site.

You can even include FAQs, support hours, or links to social profiles for better engagement.

7. Essential for Government Registrations and Verification

If you are applying for RNI registration, DAVP empanelment, or any press accreditation, having a public-facing contact page is often a requirement. It adds legitimacy to your application. 

What Should a Good Contact Page Include?

For an Epaper or News Portal, your contact page should ideally include:

• Editor’s contact information.

• Office address and phone numbers.

• General inquiry and advertising email.

• A simple contact form.

• Social media handles.

• Optional: map integration (Google Maps), WhatsApp chat link.

Conclusion

A Contact Page may seem like a small thing, but for an epaper or news website, it plays a big role in reader engagement, credibility, and business growth. If you haven’t added one yet, now’s the time. 

Make it easy for your readers, advertisers, and officials to reach you — because journalism is not just about publishing news, but also about staying connected.