Relying entirely on driving traffic and making as many sales might not be the best strategy for running an online business. If you want to build a sustainable venture, you will need to spend a lot of time raising brand awareness and build your reputation online.
Of course, if you are still relatively new to the world of eCommerce, reputation might not take your priority as much. But preparing for the future is also heavily encouraged. If nothing else, this article will be a good reference for when that time comes. But as for those who are trying to focus on the bigger picture and want to take action right now, follow the steps mentioned below right now.
Step #1 – Learn About Customer Satisfaction
Starting with the basics is always a good course of action. There are a lot of sources on the internet on how you can learn about customer satisfaction. Oberlo and their research in which they measure customer satisfaction is a good example.
At the end of the day, it is all about keeping your customers happy. If you cannot ensure that people will not bother visiting your store ever again. Not to mention recommending the business to their friends and family. A positive word of mouth is a good indication of your brand doing well.
Step #2 – Offer Multiple Payment Methods
Other payment methods.
Not everyone has the option to use a credit card. And providing multiple payment options should be a good incentive to get more people to your store. People will mention you to their friends and family. Flexibility tends to be overlooked quite a lot.
Do not neglect such payment methods like PayPal and Payoneer. Something like cryptocurrency is also worth exploring.
Step #3 – Go Pro-Environment
More and more brands are taking the pro-environment approach. And it seems that people have also become aware of the problem our planet is facing. If you harm the environment, there will be a lot of damage control necessary.
It might be impossible to change every single aspect of your business, but try to make an effort and show that you care about the environment. Your reputation will jump immediately.
Charity work is another way to show that you are more than just a business with nothing but profits in mind. If you have the resources to spare, dedicate them to something that will improve the world.
Maybe you can create a volunteer program? Or maybe you could fund a program that would improve the lives of people living in local communities? It is part of good PR, but if you are interested in building a great reputation, charity work is certainly something to consider.
Step #5 – Cooperate With Influencers
Cooperating with others and creating Instagram stories about it is worth exploring as well. And if you want to reach as many people as you can, then there is no better option than influencers.
Influencers can be found on social media as well as specific platforms. Be sure that you work with someone who has a good reputation. If they show you in a positive light, then you can expect an even bigger influx of new customers. Not to mention raising brand awareness.
Step #6 – Provide Valuable Content
Providing valuable content on a regular basis is another thing that will guarantee you more positive attention from people. Of course, the most difficult part is finding a channel and providing such content.
Social media is one of the suggestions that come to mind. Starting a blog also has its merits, including opportunities to invite guest posters as well as SEO improvements.
Paying more attention to customers is a great way to show that you care about them genuinely. Ensuring great customer support is one of the ways to reach that point.
Loyalty programs are another. You can create a VIP system with points that can be later exchanged for various perks, such as free shipping or discounts. As for the method of acquiring such points, customers can get them by posting reviews, spending money, or spending time on the store browsing.
Step #8 – Engage Customers
Engage your customers. Initiate the conversation. Reply to their comments on channels like social media and forums. Communication is important. Show that there is a real person behind there and not a money-seeking corporation that is trying to act all nice for the sake of profits.
Step #9 – Avoid Posting Fake Reviews
Despite what some might think, there are still a lot of companies that order fake reviews to boost their ratings. This kind of behavior is going to catch up to you eventually. And when that happens, you may find that getting out of the situation unscathed is more or less impossible.
