As consumer behavior has shifted to utilizing online marketplaces for shopping needs, from clothing to grocery orders, it’s likely that this trend is here to stay. The direct-to-consumer model makes for a smooth purchasing process for both the brand and the customer, and is only getting more fine tuned over time. As such, Blended Sense has taken a closer look at how this will change small business processes.
Though it can be a daunting task, integrating your business online can have major benefits for your brand awareness, customer acquisition, product sales, and more. Continue reading for a walkthrough of how e-commerce dynamics can be prosperous for small business.
Small businesses often get their distinguishing features from unique storefronts, friendly shop employees, and curating a destination stop for shoppers. So when the trend of ecommerce continues to rise as we have seen in the past few months, there may be some hesitation for small business owners to move online with the fear that they will lose that brand-specific uniquity.
That’s where your digital content strategy comes into play. Now is the time to lean into the opportunities that have been presented, and drive on an intentional marketing plan that will allow for you to see exponential growth. Plus, with the right content, your business’ unique look & feel can be maintained online. You can offer 1:1 messaging chats for quick access to employees, create web pages filled with brand colors & copy, as well as curate a user experience that perfectly fits your audience’s needs.
P.S. Do you need help creating said content? We’ve got you covered.
One of the main benefits of e-commerce is that hosting an online platform allows for you to overcome geographical limitations. When you start interacting with customers online, you are breaking down barriers and reaching target markets that normally would not have been aware of your business. Think of it on the flip side as well. Customers who want your products, but are not located near your brick & mortar, will be able to purchase your wares just as easily as if they were to walk through the shop door.
With a world that is becoming increasingly dependent on the internet, it’s no surprise that the functionality of e-commerce has made it so appealing to consumers. More and more, shoppers will opt to do a quick google search for a specific product or service rather than jump in the car to head to the store. Plus, the ease of seeking out niche items, sorting through products, and purchasing directly from the virtual shopping cart will typically outweigh the additional shipping costs that may accrue.
If you’re worried about losing traffic within your physical shop, you can offer pick-up options so that they can save on shipping. Your customers can browse online then come in-store to make the final purchase. The point is, you’re allowing them to shop on their own time and in their own comfort zone while still accruing product sales. This opens up a smooth buyer’s journey, which will ultimately result in a boost of customer retention!
This is for those of you who are considering one of the following options: selling products & services solely through e-commerce or adding an online store in lieu of an additional physical location. According to the Digital Marketing Institute, adding an online component to existing business is not a high-risk investment to make. In fact, you can save on staff costs, advertising, data entry, utility charges, and more when you make the move to the virtual space. Plus, your passive earnings will continue to grow as your online store remains open 24/7 when your brick & mortar cannot.
Ready to take the leap into e-commerce?
We invite you to schedule a demo with us in order to learn more about our COVID-19 Revival Kit, and how we can help your business grow as you take the first steps towards integrating your products & services into the online space.
