Creating an e-commerce site by yourself involves asking many important questions before taking the first step: What do you sell? Where is it? How do you get people to prefer your products? How do you market them? How and where do you get paid? How do you manage shipments?
With this guide on 20 useful tips for opening an e-commerce site, we will try to answer all these questions.
An e-commerce platform is a tool that allows you to sell your products or services within a specialized website. It is an all-in-one solution that can make the difference between a thriving online business and one that struggles.
Start thinking about creating a specific service for mobile devices, since this is the starting point for most users when shopping online.
Users take about 50 milliseconds to determine if your site is credible. This could come down to your header, store name, or layout. Be creative but avoid overdesigning. Your products should stand out more than the graphics.
Customers retain 80% of visual content and only 20% of written content. Use clear, high-resolution images with a white background and shoot from multiple angles. Hire a professional photographer if possible.
Create clear sections for each type of item—don’t mix everything together. Use categories like “New Arrivals” or “Brands” to help customers find what they’re looking for quickly.
Don’t copy other e-commerce websites just because they’re successful. Stand out with a unique idea and a strong identity that customers will remember.
Think of iconic slogans like “It gives you wings.” To create yours, ask questions such as:
A blog increases traffic, boosts customer engagement, and builds loyalty. Keep it updated with news and articles relevant to your audience.
Tell your story. Let customers know who you are, what your experience is, and why they should trust and prefer your products or services.
Make your site attractive to search engines using SEO techniques. Use keywords, optimize for popular products, and ensure customers can find you online.
Use cookies and past purchase data to recommend relevant items. Create a “Recommended for you” section to personalize the experience.
Many customers need real-time answers. A live chat feature acts as a virtual salesperson, helping users complete purchases confidently.
Special deals encourage purchases. Offer first-time discounts, free shipping over a certain amount, and seasonal promotions.
71% of carts are abandoned. Reasons include high shipping costs, slow loading, excessive form fields, required registration, and limited payment options. Simplify the checkout process.
Shipping strategies vary by business size. Free shipping is attractive, flat rates provide consistency, and weight-based rates work well for small businesses. Choose wisely.
Customer reviews build credibility. Add a review section or invite feedback post-purchase to strengthen social proof.
Collect emails to share promotions and updates via newsletters. This is effective marketing, not spam, when done respectfully.
Choose a secure platform, use SSL authentication, provide tracking, and enforce strong passwords. Trust builds loyalty.
Social media platforms are powerful storefronts. Create business profiles, run ad campaigns, and use them to connect with your audience and showcase products.
Create a referral system where customers get rewards—like coupons or discounts—for inviting others who make a purchase. This turns happy customers into brand ambassadors.
Opening a successful e-commerce site is a journey that requires planning, creativity, and continuous improvement. By following these 20 tips, you’ll be better equipped to create an online store that not only looks professional but also meets your customers’ needs and builds lasting trust.
Remember, the key is to stand out, offer real value, and always prioritize the user experience. Start with a strong foundation and grow step by step—success will follow.