When setting up an online store, you need to keep track of various things to make your e-commerce business a success. From your business plan, marketing tactics, and online tools to cement your online presence, it’s easy to make mistakes that could cost you your online business.
Ensure you start your new e-commerce business on the right foot by avoiding these common mistakes;
- Picking the wrong platform for building your website; An e-commerce platform that is difficult to scale can hinder the growth of your online business. You should choose a platform that meets the minimum must-have requirements but allows you to add new features and capabilities as your business grows. The features available should be easy to use and navigate without complexities involved. You should also be able to customize the available features in a way that will help you meet your business goals. A flexible platform will also help you experiment and pick the interface that works best for the content you publish on your online store.
- Ineffective product descriptions. For your site to be ahead of the competition, you need to focus on writing unique and detailed product descriptions. Consumers need to understand the benefits of purchasing a product. Including powerful product descriptions will show them features that may pique their interest and compel them to complete a purchase. Not only will unique product descriptions capture potential customers, but it will also help you have a better overall web presence.
- Low-quality product images. Poorly-done product images can negatively impact the success of your site. Potential customers feel secure when scrolling through an attractive and professional website. Good product images give users confidence in the product you are selling. For a good shopping experience, incorporate clean and professional product images into your site. Have multiple high-quality photos shot from different angles and zoom in to show features and details for an accurate representation of your products.
- Poor site structure. Poor navigation on your e-commerce site affects the shopping experience of your customers and your ability to make sales. Having a user-friendly website with a responsive design will ensure shoppers can access your online store at all times. Make it convenient for customers to find the products they are looking for on your site by making sure the products on your online store are categorized. Include menus and a prominent search bar to fine-tune search results and help web users navigate your website and find the products they are looking for easily. The perfect site navigation will improve the shopping experience of your customers, which leads to repeat customers.
- A complicated checkout process. Neglecting the checkout process will lead to a drop in sales and increase the cart abandonment rate of your online storefront. An ideal checkout process should have less than three clicks on after a customer has ordered a product. Having a long or complicated process will present too many hurdles to your customers, which might lead to them leaving your store. Streamline the checkout process by asking for only essential information, such as shipping and billing details, to reduce the chances of potential customers changing their minds about making a purchase.
Setting up a successful online store requires hard work and dedication. Being aware of the most common pitfalls when launching your e-commerce business will help you avoid unexpected costs and time needed to rectify them. Not only will your e-commerce website be optimized for success, but you will also have loyal customers that are excited to buy your products.
Related articles;