Running a business has its ups and downs. Sometimes things are good and other times, not so much.
While some things may be out of control, stay on top of whatever you can control.
With most people opting to run E-Commerce businesses, you need to avoid making mistakes for your company’s growth.
Here are some common mistakes to avoid in E-Commerce:
1 – Using the wrong E-Commerce platform
Today there are so many platforms that you can use to sell your products. It all boils down to the platform that meets your needs. For instance, something you need to look at is ease of use. You want a platform that is easy to operate depending on your technical abilities.
Also, look at the payment options offered during checkout. Check that the platform does not only use popular options but local payment gateways as well.
If you are starting, take your time to research what platform is right for you. You can talk to various store owners and look for online communities discussing such issues. This will help you make a decision.
2 – Not having enough information about your store
Besides basic information on contact details, prices, and product descriptions, most people omit other important information like a page about the company.
On your website, it is crucial to have an ‘About Us’ page. Buyers are interested in learning about the company, especially if you are just getting started. It will help you connect with your customers, which helps build trust and credibility.
Something else you should not neglect is outlining the terms and conditions of sale. A user does not want to be confused about issues like the exchange or return policy. After all, they are putting their money on the line.
3 – Lacking a strong brand identity or message
Some of the biggest companies out there have put in the work to create a solid brand. That is because simply having a good product is not enough.
For a thriving business, you will have to develop a strong identity that your target market can relate to. Part of your marketing research should be identifying what your audience is looking for and what language appeals to them.
Consider partnering with a reputable digital agency that specializes in market research and branding strategies to ensure your brand resonates with your target audience.
After that, aim at being authentic and consistent with your message. Some of the things you need to aim for when creating your brand are quality, affordability, fun, and trustworthiness. If people associate your products with such values, you will succeed.
4 – Publishing content that’s similar to your competitors’ content
Give customers a reason to buy a product from you. That means being unique so as to compel potential customers to buy from you and not your competitors.
While it is okay to find inspiration from competitors, it is also important that you find the gap in the market and fill it. You can hire content marketing services to help create content for you while offering other services on top. This will help incentivize customers to buy from your online store.
5 – Not investing in rock-solid cybersecurity
One challenge that eCommerce businesses are facing is cybersecurity threats. You need to invest in cyber security to minimize losses.
Every day, hackers find ways to attack companies through phishing scams, financial fraud, and infected links.
Not having the proper form of security for your online store can be a big mistake. Consult with IT technicians on measures you can take to protect your business.
6 – Website design that results in a poor user experience
When designing your website, have two things in mind: functionality and appeal. You want your website to be aesthetically pleasing to users, but you also want to convert customers to buy products.
If customers are having a hard time navigating the website or some features are not working, a customer will give up and go to another site. Work with a UX expert in ensuring you are providing a positive user experience.
7 – Having a complex checkout process
Most users abandon the cart during the checkout process. If a user feels that your system is complex, they will get frustrated and move on.
Visit your website as a customer and check what some of the setbacks you need to address are. The checkout process needs to be as smooth as possible.
Conclusion
E-Commerce is all about prioritizing the customer. Put yourself in their shoes and imagine what you would want.
That being said, if you are just starting or have been operating for a while, try your best to avoid the mistakes mentioned above.