Having a contact form that is optimized for good conversions can be the difference between a 2% and 10% conversion rate.  That is why it is important to always be testing different forms and elements to see which yield a better return. Minimizing steps/fields, explaining each field, using relevant graphics/icons, using a clean layout, colors, fonts, graphics/icons, headlines, and compelling offers can help convert a visitor into a customer.  Even the smallest change to a sign-up form can bring in dramatically better conversion rates.

Here is an extensive lists of websites that have simple, yet effective contact forms that are designed for high conversions.

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MailChimp

Why Its Effective:

• “Completely Free Account”
• “No Credit Card Required”
• Great Use of Testimonial
• Links to Anti-spam and Terms of Use (Established Trust with User)

Netflix

Why Its Effective:

• “Start Your Free Trial:
• Good Use of Secure Server Graphic
• Privacy Message at Bottom
• Only Ask for Email and Password
• Good Offer and Use of Graphic

StoryJumper

Why It’s Effective:

• Simplistic
• Name Explanation
• Age Explanation

BusyLissy

Why It’s Effective:

• Various Sign Up Options (OpenID)

Clashe

Why It’s Effective:

• Explanation of Screen Name
• E-mail can be used in case Forget Screen Name
• Basic Info on Initial Sign Up
• Example of “Featured Profiles”

Lastpass

Why It’s Effective:

• “Great! I’m Ready To Sign Up!” Call to Action
• Paypal and Google Checkout Payment Options
• E-mail Only to Sign Up
• Credit Card Icons for Trust

Plan.FM

Why It’s Effective:

• “Takes 30 Seconds”
• Quick Summary of the Service
• Shows Username Format

Planio

Why It’s Effective:

• Shows Subdomain URL When You Create Domain
• Easy Checkbox for Terms and Conditions
• Clean and Simple Design

ClientShow

Why It’s Effective:

• Nicely designed Field Boxes
• Easily Enter Promo Code Before Submit
• Tells You What Happens When You Sign Up

Trackur

Why It’s Effective:

• Quickly Get Started “in 60 Seconds”
• “14-Day Free Trial”
• No Obligations

Tinkrbox

Why It’s Effective:

• Good Use of Graphics
• Facebook Connect Integration
• Ability to Login or Register
• Watch a Video – Establish Credibility

Foursquare

Why It’s Effective:

• Describes the 3 Steps
• Facebook Connect
• Easy Photo Uploader
• Password (minimum 5 characters)
• Nicely Designed “Join” Button

Filebox

Why It’s Effective:

• Great Side-By-Side Chart
• Optional Free or Premium Registration
• E-mail/Password to Sign Up

ZenDesk

Why It’s Effective:

• 30 Day Free Trial
• “No Credit Card Required”
• “No Long-Term Contracts or Fees”
• Allow You To Choose a Unique Address

CutMyPic

Why It’s Effective:

• Good Graphical Representation of Steps

TypeKit

Why It’s Effective:

• Confirms Plan Chosen
• Shows Whats Included
• Allows To Easily Change Plan
• Links to Terms of Service and Support

SalesForce

Why It’s Effective:

• “No Downloads, No Software to Install”
• Video From an Employee
• 30 Day Free Trial
• Quick Drop-downs
• “Start Free Trial” Button

FreshBooks

Why It’s Effective:

• Easily View All Plans
• See What’s Included
• Recap of What You Are Receiving
• Enter Your Personalized Login Page

There are a few trends you will notice between all of these examples.  They all have a clean and simply layout, tell the user what they are getting, explain IN DETAIL what is needed to complete the form, and why the information is needed.  By doing these things, you make the user feel more secure and is willing to give you their information.  As a best practice, if a form requires little information about the user and can be completed in 15 seconds, they are more likely to complete the form.

Further Readings

• TechWyse:  Optimizing Contact Forms On Your Website
• SEOmoz:  Captchas Effect on Conversion Rates
• 1stWebDesigner: 91 Trendy Contact and Web Forms for Creative Inspiration
• WPBeginner: Best Practices on Contact Form-Page Designs in Wordpress
• TripwireMagazine: 45+ Really Essential Free HTML [Form] Enhancements