The eCommerce industry is booming currently, and experts estimate the industry is far from reaching its peak. This makes it the ideal moment to start your journey in the world of eCommerce. But without laying the foundations first, you won’t be able to crack the market.
Having your eCommerce business requires hard work and determination. But even then, if you don’t follow the right guidelines, your business will never earn a profit. To help you in your journey, we have created this beginner’s guide that will set you up for success. This eCommerce guide is based on extensive research and experience in the industry.
Follow this step by step guide if you’re planning to start your eCommerce business.
Step 1: Research the Market and Find a Product to Sell
You can’t follow the footprints of Amazon or Alibaba as they have huge financial backing. So, you need to decide what type of eCommerce business you want to run. First, you will need to pick a supply chain method. The options are:
- Dropshipping: Ideal for beginners as it doesn’t require warehousing.
- Warehouse Model: Requires investment upfront.
- White Labeling: Healthy capital fund required.
If you are low on funds, then dropshipping is the best way to go forward.
Picking a niche product that can generate traction and then combining it with affiliate marketing allows you the maximum control.
Step 2: Identify the Target Market and Validate the Product
- What does your business stand for?
- Who would buy your product?
- Who do you want to sell your products to?
Answering these questions will pave the path for your eCommerce business. Depending on how you want to portray your business, you should consider validating your product.
For example, if you are a business that sells boutique wine, you can start by doing affiliate marketing of wines on Amazon, and once the sales start coming in, you can start your brand with the most sold product.
Step 3: Registering Your Ecommerce Business
There are multiple parts to this process.
- Pick a Name and Logo: Go for a catchy and trendy name that will resonate with your target audience. Try to find a name and logo that at least hints to what your eCommerce business is about. When you are building your site, you can either custom build your logo or pick a premade one from the domain.
- Get Registered: Registering your business provides you with legal protection. But many online businesses skip this part as they prefer doing things off the books.
Step 4: Creating Your Online Store
This is where you let your creative side shine. Register your domain name and then set up an eye-catching website while keeping it functional.
If your online store is mundane, you won’t be making many sales. So, keep it clean and modern.
Step 5: Making Sales on Your E-Commerce Business
To make sales, you will need to focus on online marketing and SEO. Gaining more traction in your store will lead you to make more sales. Having a well-thought-out marketing plan should include social media marketing, sponsored content, and advertising.
With everything in place, you will slowly start making money.
What are your thoughts on this eCommerce guide for beginners? Comment below.