E-commerce is one of the most powerful ways to establish a successful and competitive business today, but it takes a lot more to succeed than simply making a website or an online shop. If you are thinking of starting an e-commerce venture, or already have one going and want to know how to help it flourish, then read on for some useful ways to improve your marketing strategy online.
Increasingly, people will browse the Internet and access websites from a variety of devices. It’s no longer the case that people will only use their laptop browser – instead, there are multiple options to choose from and think about, including mobile phones, tablets, and more. With the growth in smart watches and potential prospects of smart glasses in development, it is no surprise that in a few years, the percentage of people browsing from a traditional computer will shrink dramatically.
That means any website created should be designed with a variety of platforms in mind. It is no longer enough to create a slick and stylish website that looks great on an Internet browser from a computer, as this will not perform the same way from another device. To get the best experience for your customers, a website should be optimized to adapt to a variety of devices for a smooth and effortless experience.
Overcrowding an online store with too many graphics, complicated links and animations will not only lead a user’s browser to slow down, but it can also become a huge turn off when it comes to making sales. Most online users will make a decision about whether or not to stay on a web page in a matter of seconds, and if you have not harnessed their attention in that time, then you are unlikely to do so.
Instead, stick to the point and be clear about what you are selling and offering. If your business is focused on equipment such as liquid temperature sensors then having clear imagery, titles and a simple check out process will make your site far more compelling.
SEO, or Search Engine Optimization is the backbone of online marketing. It allows websites to improve their ranking in search engines when users type in a query and increases the likelihood of your page showing more prominently in search results.
The rules surrounding good SEO practice continue to evolve regularly, as algorithms, user behavior and trends change, so it is a worthwhile area to invest in expertise. It can pay off well when done well, and help your business grow much faster than trying to grow purely in an organic way.
Analytic data can reveal a wealth of information about your potential customers, and your competitors. This is certainly an area you should not overlook or dismiss, and instead, pay regular attention to. You can find this easily through website analytics in most CMS models or through third party services that help to track information.
By studying the patterns of your website visitors’ behavior, you can identify areas of interest, potential obstacles with your website design and what kind of search results bring traffic to your online store. This information can then be used to improve your online marketing, as well as help you adapt and improve the kinds of products and services you may choose to offer.
Allowing customer reviews may seem like a daunting prospect, especially if you are nervous about the impact of any negative comments aimed at your business. However, making customer feedback more transparent can actually be of huge benefit to your business, as it can encourage greater trust in your brand.
Positive, honest reviews allow customers to judge the product for themselves based on the experiences of others. These reviews can often reveal what customers are looking for and provide valuable information. For instance, a clothing store may be more focused on the look and appearance of their goods, but their customers may have a keener interest in the texture of materials, or how long they last. Negative reviews and feedback are also helpful to have, as your responses to them can show other potential customers how you address problems and complaints. By responding to these promptly and in a calm, courteous manner, you have the chance to demonstrate that you value your customers’ experience.
