To kick-start the New Year, we are off to discussing one of my favorite subjects: online store. Online stores are really simple in principle and it works both ways for sellers and consumers however, it can get really confusing setting up one since there are about thousands of “e-commerce gurus” out there claiming to have the “secret formula” to your online store success. We, seniors, should not be fooled by this. In truth, you really have to personally get down and dirty there, create your own methods and marketing tactics, study your market response, be known—all by yourself. No shortcuts, no tricks.
The advantage we, seniors, have over our younger contemporaries is that we have all the time in the world especially those who have already retired from work and of course, the kind of network we already have which we can use to work to our advantage. While this may sound “all-you” work, below is a simple step by step procedure on how to setup an online store:
RESEARCH
A background check—and a double check—just to make sure you got everything covered. The best way to enter the e-commerce arena and compete in it is to have a product which you sell in a wholesale price. That means, you should either be manufacturing the products yourself or you have a reliable supplier who marks his products down in half. You might want to check out few good domain names while you’re at it. Domain names are your website’s personal identification name. Good if you’ll be able to get your store’s name or you will have to settle with something really close to it.
SET UP
You’ll need a domain name, web host and a good CMS or content management system. Your domain name will help identify you apart from other websites while a web host is the backbone of your website since it allows other people to view your website. The CMS, on the other hand will make it easier for you to manage your website without getting too technical. All of which you have to pay either one time or monthly.
CONTENT
Put your content together. There should be pictures, product description and prices. To get an idea on how it should be, Google-search a couple of competitor sites and learn from their success. BE really observant of the way their clients interact with the seller as it might also be your key to success.
PAYMENT METHOD
This is the most important of them all. Ecommerce sites today are made more interactive and automated. Bear in mind that you are fighting for customers and you must give them the convenience they truly deserve. Your website should be able to accept payments without your customers having to wait for your email or response. Check with your CMS as most of them offers tie-ups with third party payment processors.
SHIPPING OPTIONS
Ecommerce sites run on shipping since orders can come from different parts of the world. It is important to have a reliable shipping company for your store’s needs. Get quotes from several local shippers and decide from there. You may have to get an account from shipping companies to qualify for discounts.
