15 minutes.

27 Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO) Experts to Follow in 2024

Ece Sanan
-Published on:
Oct 7, 2024
-Updated on:
Oct 25, 2024

Following top conversion rate optimization experts can make all the difference in maximizing your website's conversions in 2024. 

In this post, you’ll find 27 industry leaders who offer proven strategies, insights on A/B testing, and expert advice tailored to e-commerce, SaaS, and B2B businesses.

A cover image with the text "27 Conversion Rate Optimization Experts to Follow in 2024" and a funnel visual to the right.

Why Following CRO Experts Is Crucial for Your Business?

If you want to increase your website’s conversions, following Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO) experts can give you the edge you need. Here’s why it’s so important to keep up with their insights:

1. Stay Ahead with the Latest CRO Trends

CRO experts constantly experiment with new strategies, tools, and technologies. Following them helps you stay on top of the latest conversion rate optimization techniques, such as:

  • AI-based personalization.
  • Behavioral analysis to predict customer actions.
  • Real-time data usage for instant optimization.

2. Avoid Common Conversion Pitfalls

You can learn from their years of experience to avoid costly mistakes. CRO experts highlight common errors like:

  • Overcomplicating your landing pages.
  • Using weak call-to-action (CTA) buttons.
  • Ignoring mobile optimization, which could lead to missed conversions.

3. Receive Tailored Advice for Your Industry

CRO experts offer specialized advice tailored to different industries, such as:

  • E-commerce: Reducing cart abandonment and optimizing product pages.
  • SaaS: Improving lead generation forms.
  • B2B: Crafting conversion-focused landing pages for more qualified leads.

4. Master A/B Testing to Optimize Performance

Experts provide valuable insights on running effective A/B tests to:

  • Test different versions of your landing page.
  • Fine-tune your headlines and CTAs.
  • Identify which layout converts best.

You’ll also learn how to interpret test results for maximum impact.

5. Enhance User Experience (UX)

CRO experts stress the importance of UX in conversions. Some key tips include:

  • Simplified navigation: Ensure users can easily find what they’re looking for.
  • Streamlined forms: Reduce the number of fields to minimize friction.
  • Faster load times: A slow site can turn potential customers away.

6. Reduce Cart Abandonment with Proven Tactics

CRO experts often share strategies to combat cart abandonment, such as:

  • Adding trust signals like trust badges.
  • Offering free shipping or discount popups at checkout.
  • Implementing guest checkout options to reduce friction.

7. Use Psychological Triggers to Boost Conversions

Many CRO experts incorporate psychology into their optimization strategies. Learn how to:

8. Access Real Case Studies with Measurable Results

CRO experts frequently share case studies, giving you real-world examples of strategies that worked, such as:

  • How simplifying a checkout process increased conversions by 15%.
  • A/B testing different headlines that boosted click-through rates by 20%.

9. Data-Driven Decision Making

CRO experts emphasize using data to make informed decisions. Learn to:

  • Use tools like Google Analytics to track user behavior.
  • Analyze heatmaps to understand how visitors interact with your site.
  • Identify drop-off points in the user journey and make adjustments accordingly.

10. Gain a Competitive Edge

By following CRO experts, you’ll implement innovative tactics before your competitors, such as:

  • Leveraging customer behavior data to predict and improve user interactions.
  • Implementing mobile-first strategies for better engagement.

27 Conversion Rate Optimization Experts to Follow in 2024

Here’s a detailed overview of the conversion rate optimization experts (CRO experts), including their key contributions and why following them can help you improve your own CRO campaigns:

Best Conversion Optimization Experts for E-commerce

1. Neil Patel

Neil Patel Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Neil Patel is a globally recognized conversion optimization expert and digital marketing strategist. Patel simplifies complex CRO concepts, making him a great resource for businesses looking to launch effective CRO campaigns on a budget.
  • Most important work: Patel is the founder of Ubersuggest and Neil Patel Digital, which offer tools to improve both SEO and CRO. His constant stream of blog posts and videos is filled with valuable insights into conversion rate optimization consulting, making him a must-follow.
  • See Neil Patel's Linkedin Profile

2. Linda Bustos

Linda Bustos Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Linda Bustos is an expert in e-commerce optimization, making her the go-to for businesses seeking conversion rate optimization consulting in the retail space. Her experience spans across digital merchandising and checkout flow optimization.
  • Most important work: As the Director of E-commerce at CorporateGift.com, Bustos has successfully implemented conversion optimization campaigns for major e-commerce businesses, improving customer experience and increasing sales.
  • See Linda Bustos's Linkedin Profile  

3. Karl Gilis 

Karl Gillis Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Karl Gilis combines humor and actionable insights to make CRO understandable and fun. His practical, data-backed approach to conversion rate optimization is ideal for businesses that want to simplify their optimization processes.
  • Most important work: Co-founder of AGConsult, Gilis specializes in using user data to create more engaging, conversion-friendly websites. His expertise in running CRO campaigns has helped businesses optimize their websites for better user engagement and higher conversions.
  • See Karl Gilis's Linkedin Profile

4. Bryan Eisenberg

Bryan Eisenberg Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Bryan Eisenberg is a top conversion optimization expert known for his data-driven marketing strategies. He helps businesses refine their CRO campaigns by focusing on understanding customer behavior and improving user experiences.
  • Most important work: His work in co-authoring Call to Action and Always Be Testing has helped shape modern CRO practices. Through his conversion rate optimization consulting, Eisenberg provides practical, actionable advice for improving user journeys and boosting conversions on websites.
  • See Bryan Eisenberg's Linkedin Profile

5. John Ekman 

John Ekman Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? John Ekman is a Scandinavian conversion optimization expert known for his focus on conversion-centered design. His work integrates UX principles to create seamless user experiences that convert.
  • Most important work: Founder of Conversionista, Ekman’s focus is on applying psychological insights to CRO, helping businesses improve their CRO campaigns through thoughtful, user-centric design. He’s a sought-after speaker and consultant, especially for companies that need to reimagine their user journeys.
  • See John Ekman's Linkedin Profile

Best Conversion Optimization Experts for SaaS

6. Talia Wolf 

Talia Wolf Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Talia Wolf is an expert in emotional targeting, combining psychology with conversion optimization to increase website conversions. She helps businesses design CRO campaigns that resonate emotionally with their audience.
  • Most important work: As founder of GetUplift, Talia specializes in helping businesses create personalized experiences that lead to better conversion rate optimization. Her approach emphasizes behavioral psychology in CRO consulting, making her unique in the industry.
  • See Talia Wolf's Linkedin Profile

7. Sean Ellis 

Sean Ellis Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Sean Ellis coined the term "growth hacking" and is a leading figure in helping startups scale through effective conversion optimization campaigns. His approach is perfect for businesses looking for rapid, sustainable growth.
  • Most important work: Founder of GrowthHackers.com, Ellis has helped companies like Dropbox grow through effective conversion rate optimization campaigns. His CRO techniques revolve around continuous testing and iterative optimization.
  • See Sean Ellis's Linkedin Profile

8. Joanna Wiebe

Joanna Wiebe Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Joanna Wiebe is a leading expert in conversion copywriting, helping businesses craft persuasive content that drives conversions. Her expertise makes her indispensable for businesses seeking to improve their website copy as part of their CRO campaigns.
  • Most important work: Wiebe’s company, Copy Hackers, teaches marketers how to write content that converts. She is widely regarded as a top conversion optimization expert, specializing in using words to improve CRO campaign outcomes.
  • See Joanna Wiebe's Linkedin Profile

9. Peep Laja  

Peep Laja Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Peep Laja advocates for evidence-based conversion rate optimization and challenges conventional marketing best practices. His focus is on applying hard data to CRO campaigns, making him an excellent resource for marketers who want to base decisions on facts, not assumptions.
  • Most important work: Laja is the founder of ConversionXL (CXL), where he shares strategies for conversion rate optimization campaigns. His rigorous approach to CRO has helped numerous businesses optimize their digital platforms.
  • See Peep Laja's Linkedin Profile

Best Conversion Optimization Experts for A/B Testing

10. Chris Goward 

Chris Goward Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Chris Goward is known for his experimentation-based approach to conversion rate optimization. His focus on continuous testing makes him a vital resource for marketers aiming to improve their CRO efforts.
  • Most important work: As the founder of WiderFunnel and author of You Should Test That!, Goward has pioneered the use of A/B testing in digital marketing & CRO campaigns. His work emphasizes the importance of testing hypotheses to find the best ways to increase conversions, making his methods especially valuable for companies that want to innovate through experimentation.
  • YSee 's Linkedin Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/cgoward/ 

11. Ton Wesseling 

Ton Wesseling Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Ton Wesseling is a leading figure in A/B testing and CRO. He is known for his structured approach to optimization, making him a valuable resource for businesses looking to run effective CRO campaigns.
  • Most important work: Founder of Online Dialogue, Wesseling has helped countless companies improve their conversion rates through structured testing and analysis. His focus on long-term CRO strategies rather than short-term fixes makes his work particularly relevant for businesses seeking sustainable growth through conversion rate optimization.
  • See Ton Wesseling's Linkedin Profile

12. Ron Kohavi 

Ron Kohavi Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Ronny Kohavi is a leading authority in large-scale A/B testing and experimentation. His work focuses on using big data to optimize customer experiences and boost conversions.
  • Most important work: Kohavi has been instrumental in developing experimentation platforms at companies like Microsoft, helping businesses run scalable CRO campaigns. His work is invaluable for larger organizations looking to systematically test and improve their products and services.
  • See Ron Kohavi's Linkedin Profile

13. Brian Massey

Brian Massey Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Known as the "Conversion Scientist," Brian Massey uses scientific methods to optimize conversions. He helps businesses run data-driven CRO campaigns that consistently produce measurable results.
  • Most important work: Founder of Conversion Sciences, Massey focuses on A/B testing and analytics, bringing a rigorous, experimental approach to conversion rate optimization consulting. His methods are ideal for companies looking for evidence-backed results in their CRO efforts.
  • See Brian Massey's Linkedin Profile

14. Craig Sullivan 

Craig Sullivan Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Craig Sullivan is a conversion optimization expert known for his unique approach that blends UX, analytics, and A/B testing. His work in usability and analytics-driven CRO makes him a must-follow for anyone aiming to improve user experiences and boost conversions.
  • Most important work: Founder of OptimiseOrDie, Sullivan’s work emphasizes optimizing user flows by reducing friction and using data to make informed decisions. His consulting services focus on developing CRO campaigns that drive sustainable growth by understanding user behavior.
  • See Craig Sullivan's Linkedin Profile

Best Conversion Optimization Experts for B2B

15. Stephen Pavlovich 

Stephen Pavlovich Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Stephen Pavlovich is a key figure in conversion rate optimization consulting, known for delivering significant revenue growth for his clients through data-driven CRO.
  • Most important work: As the CEO of Conversion.com, Pavlovich has developed high-impact CRO campaigns for large enterprises, generating over $1 billion in increased revenue. His work emphasizes personalized conversion strategies, making him an essential follow for businesses looking for tailored optimization solutions.
  • See Stephen Pavlovich's Linkedin Profile

16. Anna Talerico 

Anna Talerico Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Anna Talerico is a conversion optimization expert specializing in B2B platforms. Her focus is on building and optimizing landing pages for better conversion rates in the business environment.
  • Most important work: Co-founder of ION Interactive, Talerico’s expertise lies in creating conversion-optimized interactive content experiences. Her conversion rate optimization consulting is particularly valuable for B2B companies seeking to enhance lead generation and user engagement through well-designed landing pages.
  • See Anna Talerico's Linkedin Profile

17. Tim Ash 

Tim Ash Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Tim Ash brings together neuromarketing and CRO to offer unique insights on how to optimize digital experiences. His focus on understanding user psychology makes him essential for businesses looking to improve conversion rate optimization campaigns through persuasive design.
  • Most important work: Author of Landing Page Optimization, Ash is known for his work in applying brain science to web design and CRO. His expertise in using neuroscience to guide conversion rate optimization consulting services has helped many companies increase their conversions through more user-friendly designs.
  • See Tim Ash's Linkedin Profile

18. Roger Dooley 

Roger Dooley Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Roger Dooley merges neuromarketing with conversion optimization, offering a deep understanding of how brain science can influence customer behavior. His work is essential for businesses looking to integrate psychological insights into their CRO campaigns.
  • Most important work: Author of Brainfluence, Dooley’s work focuses on using neuroscience to enhance conversion rate optimization campaigns. He provides businesses with tools to tap into subconscious motivators to increase conversions.
  • See Roger Dooley's Linkedin Profile

19. Paul Rouke 

Paul Rouke Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Paul Rouke emphasizes long-term, user-focused CRO strategies that help businesses achieve sustainable growth. His method of optimizing user journeys is a cornerstone of his conversion rate optimization consulting.
  • Most important work: Founder of PRWD, Rouke’s work focuses on creating meaningful customer experiences that drive long-term conversions. His approach to CRO campaigns revolves around continuous improvement and aligning business goals with user needs.
  • See Paul Rouke's Linkedin Profile

Best Conversion Optimization Experts for SEO

20. Rand Fishkin 

Rand Fİshkin Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Rand Fishkin is a renowned expert in SEO and CRO, making him a key figure for businesses seeking to combine search engine visibility with conversion optimization. His work on user intent aligns perfectly with CRO campaigns that aim to convert traffic.
  • Most important work: As the founder of Moz and SparkToro, Fishkin’s expertise lies in creating a seamless connection between traffic generation and CRO. His insights help businesses optimize their digital presence for both visibility and conversions, integrating SEO with conversion rate optimization strategies.
  • See Rand Fishkin's Linkedin Profile 

21. Brian Dean 

Brian Dean Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Brian Dean is renowned for his ability to merge SEO with CRO, providing businesses with actionable strategies that increase both traffic and conversions.
  • Most important work: Founder of Backlinko, Dean is known for creating in-depth content and guides on SEO and conversion strategies. His work is invaluable for businesses that want to attract traffic and ensure that it converts effectively through optimized CRO campaigns.
  • See Brian Dean's Linkedin Profile

22. Benji Hyam 

Benji Hyam Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Benji Hyam is a growth marketing expert with a deep understanding of how to leverage CRO in early-stage startups. His focus on practical, scalable strategies makes him a valuable resource for businesses at any stage of growth.
  • Most important work: Co-founder of Grow and Convert, Hyam’s work is focused on content marketing and conversion rate optimization consulting. He helps startups implement content-driven CRO campaigns that not only generate leads but also convert them into loyal customers.
  • See Benji Hyam's Linkedin Profile

Best Conversion Optimization Experts for Landing Page Optimization

23. Oli Gardner

Oli Gardner Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? As an authority in landing page design, Oli Gardner's expertise lies in optimizing user experiences for better conversions. His focus on conversion rate optimization campaigns helps businesses create high-converting landing pages.
  • Most important work: Co-founder of Unbounce, Gardner has contributed extensively to landing page optimization strategies, focusing on CRO campaign planning. His approach to conversion rate optimization consulting focuses on removing friction and ensuring smooth user flows. 
  • See Oli Gardner's Linkedin Profile

24. Michael Aagaard 

Micheal Aagaard Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Michael Aagaard is a conversion copywriter and expert in website optimization. He focuses on using well-crafted content to drive conversions and improve user engagement.
  • Most important work: Aagaard’s work at Unbounce and as an independent consultant has helped many businesses fine-tune their website copy and improve their conversion rate optimization campaigns. His focus on testing headlines, CTAs, and other website elements ensures that content plays a central role in CRO.
  • See Michael Aagaard's Linkedin Profile

25. Ben Labay 

Ben Labay Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Ben Labay is an expert in conversion research, focusing on blending qualitative and quantitative data to drive results. His background in academia allows him to apply rigorous research methods to CRO.
  • Most important work: Labay is the Managing Director at Speero, where he focuses on developing data-driven CRO campaigns. His approach emphasizes thorough research and structured testing to help businesses optimize their user experiences.
  • See Ben Labay's Linkedin Profile

26. Joel Harvey 

Joel Harvey Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Joel Harvey’s expertise in testing-driven CRO is beneficial for companies that want to run CRO campaigns backed by experimentation. His work focuses on reducing the gap between user intent and conversion.
  • Most important work: As co-founder of Conversion Sciences, Harvey has led hundreds of CRO campaigns, specializing in data-centric strategies to boost online performance. His focus on iterative testing helps businesses identify and implement high-impact conversion improvements.
  • See Joel Harvey's Linkedin Profile

27. Angie Schottmuller 

Angie Schottmuller Linkedin Profile Picture
  • Why follow? Angie Schottmuller is an expert in the intersection of psychology, marketing, and conversion optimization. She is widely recognized for her insights on persuasive marketing and behavioral data.
  • Most important work: Schottmuller’s work focuses on helping businesses understand the psychology behind conversions. Her knowledge in applying behavioral science to CRO campaigns makes her an invaluable resource for marketers aiming to increase conversions through persuasive strategies.
  • See Angie Schottmuller's Linkedin Profile

How Popupsmart's CRO Checker Can Help You Apply Expert Strategies

As you absorb the insights from leading CRO experts, it's essential to have a reliable tool to apply and measure those strategies effectively. 

Popupsmart's Conversion Rate Optimization & Performance Checker is designed to help you do just that, offering a streamlined way to identify and fix issues that could be hindering your conversion rates.

CRO Checker Tool from Popupsmart

This tool allows you to:

  • Analyze key performance metrics: From page load speed to user engagement, the CRO Checker evaluates multiple factors that impact conversion rates. By examining these metrics, you can ensure that your site is optimized for the best possible user experience.
  • Identify areas for improvement: Popupsmart's tool provides clear, actionable insights on how to improve conversion-critical elements such as call-to-actions (CTAs), headlines, and overall design. This aligns with expert advice on maintaining simple, user-friendly navigation and layout.
  • Test and validate changes: Much like the A/B testing techniques emphasized by experts, Popupsmart’s CRO Checker helps you track how different elements perform. This data-driven approach ensures that any changes made to your site are based on actual performance data, not guesswork.

By using Popupsmart's CRO Checker, you can apply the expert strategies shared throughout this post, making sure your website is always performing at its best. For an even deeper dive into CRO tactics, don’t forget to check out Popupsmart’s Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO): Complete Guide 2024, which covers everything from user experience optimization to advanced A/B testing techniques.

Conclusion

Following these 27 CRO experts in 2024 can significantly boost your website’s conversion rates and overall performance. Each of these experts brings a unique approach to conversion rate optimization, from mastering A/B testing to enhancing user experience or even using psychological triggers to influence buying behavior. 

Whether you’re running an e-commerce store, a SaaS business, or a B2B platform, these experts have the insights and strategies you need to avoid common pitfalls, stay on top of the latest trends, and make data-driven decisions to improve your conversions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I know if my CRO strategy is working?

You’ll know your CRO strategy is working when you see improvements in key metrics like conversion rates, bounce rates, and average session duration. 

Tools like Google Analytics and heatmaps can help you track user behavior and identify areas of your site that need improvement.

2. What is the most common mistake businesses make when optimizing conversions?

One of the most common mistakes is overcomplicating the website design or landing pages. Too much information, confusing navigation, and cluttered layouts can overwhelm users and drive them away. CRO experts recommend keeping designs simple and focusing on clear, strong calls to action.

3. What tools do CRO experts commonly use?

CRO experts often rely on tools like Google Analytics, Hotjar (for heatmaps), Optimizely or VWO (for A/B testing), and Crazy Egg (for click tracking). These tools help them gather data on user behavior, run experiments, and identify areas where conversions can be improved.