Empty search patterns
The no-results page is search at its most fragile, every visitor here has already failed once. The pattern depends on whether the typical empty result is a typo, an over-specific query, or a discontinued SKU.
Did-you-mean with broadened suggestions
The empty state leads with a spell-corrected suggestion, then offers a broader version of the same query, plus a list of related searches with result counts. Used by marketplaces where most empty states are typos or over-specific queries.
> what's good
- +Catches the most common reason for zero results, typos, with one tap to fix.
- +Broadened-query suggestion rescues over-specific searches automatically.
- +Related searches with counts let shoppers pick the one that fits their intent.
> what's risky
- ·Spell-correction depends on a healthy query log, weak on long-tail or niche terms.
- ·Aggressive auto-correction can hide intentional searches for unusual products.
- ·Related-query lists go stale if not regenerated from recent search behaviour.
Popular-categories fallback grid
Instead of trying to fix the query, the page pivots to a curated rescue surface, popular categories tied to the search context, plus a row of best-sellers. Used by home and furniture retailers where shoppers often browse rather than search precise SKUs.
> what's good
- +Treats empty results as an opportunity, not a dead end.
- +Best-seller row converts curious shoppers regardless of original query.
- +Doesn't depend on having clean spell-correction infrastructure.
> what's risky
- ·Generic fallbacks ignore the query intent, can feel like the search ignored you.
- ·Best-sellers compete with personalised relevance signals.
- ·Easy to over-merchandise and lose the empty-state utility.
Help-led with chat and contact prompts
The empty state leads with human-help options, chat, contact form, and beauty-advisor pickers, treating zero results as a service moment. Used by beauty, healthcare, and high-touch retailers where the shopper is often looking for something specific and needs guidance.
> what's good
- +Treats search failure as a CX moment, not just a UX one.
- +Chat handoff captures intent retailers would otherwise lose to a bounce.
- +Reinforces brand promise of expert advice for high-consideration categories.
> what's risky
- ·Requires real chat staffing or it degrades to a slow contact form.
- ·Pure help-led layouts can feel cold without an editorial fallback row.
- ·Easy to overload with CTAs that compete for attention.