3 Tips that an online business can’t afford to miss

The future is now, and it is digital. Whether you’re selling snacks or marketing your services, having an online presence is crucial in today’s globalized world. In the past, merchants and vendors had to rely on a physical storefront in order to sell their goods.

Nowadays, the internet has allowed entrepreneurs to set up shop from the comfort of home with minimal fuss and almost zero capital outlay. With the COVID pandemic shutting everyone inside, online shopping has exploded in popularity as shoppers take to the internet for their dose of retail therapy.

Thus, if you’re an existing business owner or currently looking to kickstart your own enterprise, here are some tips for taking your business online.

1. Invest in a well-designed website

Visibility and market presence are the hallmarks of a successful online business. In order to attract customers, you’ll first need to be seen.

A well-designed website provides you with a market presence and allows you to advertise your products and services. Your website can serve a variety of functions – all of which depend on what you need to be done.

It can be a storefront that allows customers to browse your inventor and make their purchases. Alternatively, it can act as an information kiosk that creates awareness and educates customers on the range of services that you have on offer.

The basis of a good website lies in its design and user interface. Clunky, awkward interfaces frustrate customers and make for a poor user experience. Business owners often make the mistake of cutting corners when it comes to website design. A decision that often ends up costing them dearly.

As a website is often the first point of contact for a customer, first impressions matter. Consider running through your website as a customer would and identify any potential kinks that may affect the customer experience.

2. Engage with your target audience

Social media has revamped the way we communicate and advertise our products and services to customers. In the past, advertising agencies were hired to craft eye-catching adverts that resonated with consumers.

Nowadays in the age of Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, customer engagement has taken on a whole new meaning. Businesses are now expected to have social media personas that captivate their audience members and encourage brand loyalty.

Hoonigan is the perfect example of a company that has elevated customer engagement through social media to a fine art form.

Crisp photography, high-quality production values, and a strong social media presence on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube have earned Hoonigan a cult following amongst their audience.

This has allowed the company to stand out in a crowded industry whilst still maintaining a strong online presence

3. Offer options for instant gratification

The information age has made instant gratification a regular part of life. Customers expect their products to arrive quickly and on time. With just a click, you’ll have your package delivered right to your doorstep.

Whilst we may be a while away from drone deliveries, home deliveries are a must for any products-based business. Going the extra mile for your customers will give you a significant edge over any competitors – something that’s crucial in today’s world.

Florists, for example, have taken to including same-day delivery as a part of their service package. This added level of convenience has reaped benefits for many with most florists seeing a massive increase in sales during the COVID crisis.

Finally, don’t forget to protect your company data to stop potential breaches. Use apps like Tezro, which has encrypted messaging, to avoid leaking business info from private messages. Click here to know more: blog.tezro.com/secure-messaging

2020 has been an uncertain year for people everywhere with jobs being lost and businesses closing their doors. This does not mean that it is the end of things. Far from it actually, as opportunities will abound as we adapt to the new normal.

So, that’s all from my side. I hope you get the idea about 3 actionable tips for an online business that will help you to start your successful online business and to scale your existing business.