Online Retail stores will never go out of style because customers will always need to try things on and make last-minute purchases.
However, shopping online has become quite popular, and a smart and successful business knows the importance of gaining profit from online shoppers and in-person shoppers. Why not benefit from both? If you’re wondering how you can improve your online retail store and gain a community of customers not only in your store but also on social media and a website, strengthening your brand, read on.
Essential Tips for your Online Retail Store
Include Important Information
Make your site about the merchandise, but also provide pertinent information – remember to create and strengthen an engaging brand in your online retail store, nurturing not only your buyers, but also your followers and future fans about your store and business. Include information like business hours, locations, upcoming sales, and deals. You want your customers as informed as possible.
Include an FAQ section so that when customers look up questions about your store, they will also get directed back to your website. Promote exclusive events and special deals customers will know about from viewing your site.
Advertise in the Store
Remind in-person shoppers about your online presence. Do this through different channels such as the main social networks – Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Pinterest – and also digital media such as blog, YouTube and other means of advertising that can reach new customers. The world has gone digital, but some people aren’t aware that you have a site. Place little reminders around the store. Put up signage informing customers of your website.
Include leaflets or flyers near the register so customers can glance at them as they check out. It’s also good practice to have your employees mention the website to customers as they are checking out. Finally, consider asking your customers for their email addresses so you can send them promotions and direct them to your site in every message.
Create Social Media Platforms
Go beyond making a website and build a social media presence. Being on multiple platforms will build your clientele because you’ll connect with customers from all over the world. They might not be able to visit one of your locations, but they can purchase your merchandise from your site.
Furthermore, you can build a community of your brand’s admirers and followers who will freely and organically engage in your publications and thus promote your content.
Put your website in every profile bio. When you post pictures of new merchandise, mention in the caption where customers can go to purchase it. Engage with your followers professionally, and cater to their interests. Ask them what items they would like to see more of.
Request Customer Reviews
Include customers on the site. Set up a section for customer reviews, giving them a space to promote your products. Potential customers believe current customers more than business owners because they have no agenda.
If they enjoyed a product, and they want to tell others why, it’s simply because they were satisfied. Instead of going to a third-party site for reviews and ratings, customers can get all the information they need in one location.
Your retail store’s online presence matters just as much as the actual store itself. Improving it will only result in increased profits for your business.
* Written by Felicia Priedel from Local Position
Editor’s Note: The opinions expressed here by Fashinnovation’s columnists are their own, not those of Fashinnovation.
