Rodney SalazarYears ago, if you wanted to set up an eCommerce site, you would have had to raise capital and hire expensive designers and programmers. Today, the situation is much different. Thanks to helpful tools and software platforms, just about anyone can set up an online store. Rather than spending months in preparation before developing your product or service, you now have the opportunity to launch a quality eCommerce site at any time.
With the ease of setting up an online store and the profits that can be made from it, business owners can no longer overlook the benefits to eCommerce. Let’s take a look at five things you may not know about it.
1. E-commerce is not just for big businesses.
Because of the previous cost and high-tech process, eCommerce attracted big businesses with big budgets. Today is very different. E-commerce is not just for the big guys; small businesses, DIYers and mom-and-pop shops are jumping on board to establish online stores. With an extensive selection of software, it makes practical and financial sense to sell products online.
2. Ecommerce benefits local businesses.
E-commerce is often associated with taking your business globally. But if you operate a small business and want to expand your reach within the local area, it is a great solution. Why? Your customers want to read reviews about your products and have access to discount codes and coupons. They want the option to shop online 24/7. They don’t want to wait in line or deal with crowds. Having an online store gives local customers the shopping experience they expect.
3. E-commerce sites need to be mobile friendly.
When setting up your eCommerce site, it’s imperative that it has a responsive design. This means that it looks and performs the same on all devices. Google recently announced that for the first time, mobile searches have surpassed desktop searches. Also, Google favors websites that have a responsive design. If you want to bring visitors to your site and convert them into loyal customers, you must have a mobile-friendly website.
4. You must be proactive on eCommerce.
Today’s shoppers are on the hunt for the best bargains. The trouble is that some shoppers spend time going into small businesses so that they can “showroom shop.” They touch the product, test it out and ask questions. Then they go and find that product online for less. To avoid being a showroom for another business’ sales, you must think proactively. Be accessible on social media, engage your audience and reward loyal customers.
5. E-commerce has a social component.
You can have a clean, engaging eCommerce site, but if you’re not social online, you’re limiting your potential. Social media is an essential part of it because it adds interactivity to the ordinary buy-and-sell relationship. Research shows that people are more likely to trust a brand and buy their product when it’s recommended by friends on Facebook or Twitter.
E-commerce offers many valuable assets, and it’s important to understand how these elements fit into the buy-sell lifecycle. The exciting news is that it is no longer reserved for big businesses. It’s an opportunity that anyone can take advantage of.
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