In a world of ever-rising rentals, switching to e-commerce platforms can be an easy way to cut costs. With the plethora of E-commerce platforms, ranging from Amazon and Lazada, to building your own website and social media, many businesses are selling smart by swapping real estate for digital estate. As the global e-commerce market is predicted to reach $5.5 trillion in 2023, online shopping is set to continue changing consumer behaviour and the way we market. But how can you seamlessly make that switch and ensure a successful business?
Spending a little more on marketing at the beginning to establish your brand’s digital presence can save you money in the long run and ensure the longevity of your online shop.
Adapt your marketing to establish a digital presence. To stand out from the crowd you need a constant stream of fresh, interesting content to promote your brand; this can come in the form of social media posts, videos or even e-newsletters.
Without the tangible product, photography and videography are key in impressing the customer and catching their eye.
Snappy taglines and descriptions are also important to convince the consumer to make the purchase.
The second way to establish a cost effective online business is to connect with your customers to secure returning customers. Online shopping can veer towards fads and trends so building a reliable customer base is one of the key factors to a successful business.
Personalising your customer service and making your shop accessible and easy to navigate are just a few of the ways you can encourage customers to return.
Sites like Amazon have schemes for small businesses to help you lay the foundation of your business so you can focus on aspects like the customer experience. Lazada even holds training programmes for business owners to learn more about successful selling which includes tips on customer service and marketing.
You may even consider free shipping with 74% of customers placing importance on free shipping. Many E-commerce platforms help you figure out the most cost effective shipping policy while still remaining attractive to customers.
Different e-commerce platforms have different delivery options; for example, Amazon is through a central delivery system from warehouses, while Etsy is through individual sellers.
Pay attention to factors like return policies and delivery times which are also key in working out what will work best for you and your business.
Moving onto e-commerce platforms can save you money and lead to a cost effective, successful business. Utilising programmes and tools provided by these sites can help you adapt to the growing e-commerce world.
