If you are thinking of starting a new online business or moving an existing business online, there are some basic guidelines that will ensure your website is up and running in no time.
From having a plan to using social media, here are our tips on how to start an online business:
Have a plan
Once you have made a decision to go online, research what your competitors are offering and define your brand. Be confident in your USP and know what type of customer you want to attract.
Consider your platform
Choose where and how you will promote your business. If you are only selling via your website, you will need to think about how customers will find you. If you are going to be selling on other platforms, do a comparison and choose the best ones for you, your budget, and your brand.
Shop window
Your website is your shop window, so it needs to look professional and be easy to navigate. Make sure any images are of high quality and that your copy is professionally written and laid out.
Search engines
You want potential customers to be able to find your website, so ensure you include keywords and update the content regularly. When you are looking to buy a domain name, consider the keywords you want to include. You can pick a domain name at names.co.uk and other specialists.
Features
You will need to add certain features to your website; for example, do you need a booking option? You will also need to consider payment options and whether you want to offer payment via services such as PayPal. If you are selling worldwide, make sure you are up to date on the latest import charges for goods.
One feature all websites should have is that they work on all screens, including mobiles, tablets, and desktop computers.
Marketing
Depending on your budget, you will need to decide how to promote your business once you are up and running. This could be a soft launch on social media or a paid advertising campaign.
Social media
Make sure you secure a social media handle and that your account is active and follows a house style, both in the messaging and the imaging.
Having an online presence is becoming essential in today’s world and is unquestionably worth the investment.
