5 Steps Small Businesses Can Take to Thrive Online

Online shopping has been around even before the pandemic hit. However, the current world crisis has made it more evident that selling items online will be the new normal, especially as people grow more cautious about going outside.

There are many advantages to online selling, one of which is that even small businesses can thrive in it. It’s worth noting, though, that the digital landscape has many pitfalls.

Today, we’ll discuss how small businesses can thrive in the digital landscape. 

1. Invest in a Quality Website

Launching a website isn’t enough these days since almost every online business has one. No, you need to ensure that your website design is attractive, functional, and accessible. 

In your endeavor to produce a quality website design, you need to keep in mind a few factors. These include your website’s layout, navigation, content, and mobile optimization. 

A fast loading rate is also indispensable, which is why experts recommend working with professional web designers and developers to create an optimized website design. 

2. Offer More Than One Payment Option

During the early days of the pandemic, several online stores, such as Target, experienced a massive decrease in sales due to the growing hesitancy of consumers to use credit cards.

One way you can ensure that your customers push through with their purchases is to offer multiple payment options.

There is no hard and fast rule here, but you may find that allowing debit cards, bank payments, and e-wallets can help your business grow by accommodating buyers’ needs.

3. Take Advantage of Social Media

Social media plays a starring role in the digital landscape, so it’s crucial to tap on its potential. Aside from using it to market your products and services, you can also consider it a customer service avenue.

Not only that, but you can also utilize social media to spread your digital footprint and prove your legitimacy and trustworthiness.

Before you can accomplish all of these, though, you need to research your target market. Suppose you don’t have a dedicated team to perform tasks related to social media. In that case, you may want to consider working with a digital marketing agency for better chances of launching a successful social media campaign. 

4. Expand Your Reach Through Marketplaces

Small businesses often find it difficult to compete with established names in their chosen fields. However, all is not lost, especially if you consider selling on online marketplaces while maintaining your website.

Marketplaces make it possible for small businesses to boost their online presence. You can also connect with a broader market if you choose to sell on sites like Amazon, eBay, and Etsy.

Remember to check the credibility of other sites if you’re considering other platforms. Selling on marketplaces with bad reputations will only hurt your brand in the long run.

5. Consider Your Shipping Options

One of the main reasons many people opt to buy products and services online is the convenience involved. However, if you make your customers wait for their orders, your business could suffer.

Choosing a shipping carrier that offers fast and reliable delivery is highly advisable. Dependable delivery will also give your customers the impression that you’re ready for business, which is always good for your brand.

While researching shipping companies, you should also take time to canvas packing materials. You’ll need the staples to ensure that your items are shipped safely. These include boxes, bubble wraps, packing tapes, foam peanuts, paper, and cardboard. 

Conclusion

Online shopping is here to stay, especially as society continues to face a number of difficulties. The good news is that small businesses can benefit from this trend. However, you need to know how to work with it to increase your brand’s visibility. 

Working with a reputable digital marketing agency can help you achieve your goals if you’re thinking of developing an online presence for your business.

Nick the Marketer is a full-server digital marketing agency in Birmingham, AL, prepared to assist small businesses in thriving in these trying times. We offer various digital marketing services, including website design, SEO, PPC, and social media management. Call us today to learn more about these services!