E-commerce is the most immediate way to monetize your Internet presence – if your business is about selling something, of course.
Right now, tools and chances to become a successful online retailer are many and various. From the simple eBay account, that you can set up in a few minutes, up to a super-custom online bazaar where it is possible to find everything, there’s a huge range of possible solutions capable of maximizing your income by online sales.
So, how to move if your aim is to move to e-commerce? Just a few and simple rules will help you to make the right choices.
1. Run. Not too fast.
Of course, being online and start making money as soon as possible is a key point. But don’t forget to plan a good strategy, if you want to go far. Evaluate carefully the budget you want to invest at the beginning – try out cheaper options, selling over shared shopping platforms. Get knowledge about your market area online, learn by mistakes, improve your technique gradually. Then you’ll be in the position of getting and managing a “full option” online store.
2. Give real plus value to your online offer.
It is a fact that people, anyway, like to get out and go shopping. You need to give them a good reason to buy online, where commercial transactions are often slower and not face-to-face. A good reason can be better prices or a wider catalogue. But also a very efficient customer care service or the ability of making pleasant the purchase of common use goods. Think about it. And equip your e-commerce plaform with the right enhancements.
3. Usability first!
Design of the website is one of the main issues about e-commerce systems. Leave “special effects” for other purposes. Keep it clear and simple. Provide users more than one way to go across your catalogue. Main functions must be not just visible, but even obvious… as a customer gets into your web store, he should be immediately aware about how does it work.
4. The importance of being transparent.
A “must do” before starting an e-commerce activity? Prepare a very clear section dedicated to terms and conditions. Take care about the privacy of your customers. Be clear about prices, additional charges, returns and time for delivery. Safeguarding the client means also to safeguard yourself.
5. Online doesn’t mean “virtual”.
Thinking that an online shop needs less care (and less time) rather than a classic sale activity is one of the biggest mistakes you can do. E-commerce is “real” trade: it involves goods, services and money. Don’t forget to manage it the most efficient way possible, keeping your storage and pricing updated and giving ready feedback to clients’ requests. Reliability is the key of a successful online business!