As more and more people worldwide are choosing to buy online, E commerce is growing at a phenomenal rate. This growth means that there are huge opportunities for internet businesses. However, competition is stiff with simply millions of eshops around the globe available to anyone who has access to the Internet. So how do YOU get noticed? We've put together some tips to point you in the right direction.
Image Quality
High quality images sell. Given that customers are unable to touch or see the product physically before they purchase, it is of paramount importance that your products are represented with images of the highest quality. In reality, your product photos create the first impression. When we consider product images, it is important that we keep branding in mind. All photos should be taken in the same style, on the same background and from the same angles. It's really worth your while to invest in your product images.
Quick and Easy-to-Use Buying Information and Trust Credentials
This includes things like easy access, clear return policies, privacy, easy-to-find contact information and secure SSL payment processing. This will build trust with your customers. In general it is more likely that people will buy from internet businesses that they have confidence in. According to research, about 70% of online customers have cancelled an order owing to a lack of trust in the transaction. Placing certificates on a web page can also build trust. These can be things like awards of distinction, accreditations and so on.
Product Search Optimisation
How can you make your product stand out from a specific search enquiry? Firstly, your product name must include the brand, style, size or colour and a keyword search term. Also be sure to use tags rich in keywords, meta descriptions and URL addresses.
Moreover, the description should attract the customer. Before composing a description, think about the who, what, where, when and why. Adding a touch of humour to your descriptions is always a winner.
Product Reviews
Product reviews are essential. One study demonstrated that the majority of consumers trust internet reviews such as personal recommendations and it's probably safe to say that this phenomenon is only going to increase. According to the study, very few consumers didn't read reviews. Besides influencing purchasing decisions, product reviews can offer higher organic rankings, an increase in visitors becoming customers and can help keep your website active. Don't forget to ask your customers to leave reviews for the products they have purchased once they receive them - they will more often than not oblige. However, it is important to answer these reviews be they positive or negative. This connection with your customers is another tool for building that all important trust.
Social Media
Making the most of social media is essential, but simply having a presence on social media is no longer enough for your business. You have to be active on social media with regular posts, by responding to comments, with promotions, special offers and competitions so as to ensure your followers don't lose interest. Taking advantage of advertising through social media also offers huge opportunities.
Applying these strategies can have a huge impact on turning visitors into your customers. Optimise your products for SEO, take high quality pictures of your products, make buying information easy to find, easy to read and easy to understand and always be fully aware of your online reputation.