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Are you ready to jump into e-commerce? You’d better prepare yourself first! Having the proper knowledge can mean the difference between sinking and swimming in today’s virtual business world.
A lot of entrepreneurs presume that they can just jump right in and become an e-commerce host; but without a plan, these persons can see their dreams quickly sink. Being successful in the world of business needs a plan of action. You have to know how to shrink your field of competitors while expanding your customer database. Knowing your customer (and your product) is vital.
When you’re prepared to become an e-commerce host, there are some steps you can take to help you find the success you’re striving for:
Step One: Name Your Baby
Your e-commerce site must have a simple yet catchy name. It has to be easy to spell and to remember, or your potential customers may become lost. Keep it simple and remember these rules:
* Don’t use digits or hyphens in your name.
* If you need to explain your spelling, you won’t be selling.
* If you already have an established business, incorporate your company name into your domain name.
* If you don’t have a business yet, expand on what you do. For instance, if selling records is your primary business, use isellrecords.com.
* The domain is crucial. Try to remain with .com, as most people who are new to navigating online will associate “.com” with the Internet. These persons see domains like .net and .org as alien beings.
Step Two: Get Registered
Register your domain name right away. Domain names are mostly registered on a yearly basis, for a yearly fee. The amount that you pay can range anywhere from $8.00 to $50.00. Those just getting started in e-commerce host sites can look for an inexpensive domain register.
Step Three: Find a Web Host
A web host is also called as an ISP or Internet Service Provider. Everyone who has Internet access already has an ISP. If you still don’t have one, you’ll need one before you can get started in your e-commerce endeavor. It’s normally best to choose a local ISP, but there are many larger ones to choose from. America Online (AOL), EarthLink and Sprint are just three of the numerous ISPs available. Decide which type of Internet hookup you want to use, whether it is DSL, cable, or a dial-up over the phone line. The choice is really up to you.
Step Four: Build Your Site
You’ve already set your plan of action in place, registered your name and found a web host. Now, it’s time to begin building your site and becoming an e-commerce host. The tools that you use will depend on your experience, level of patience, and how much you want to learn. Many small e-commerce sites start out by using pre-existing services, such as Yahoo Merchant Solutions. Your ISP may also have the tools you require to build your e-commerce site.
Step Five: Place Your Product
Just like a regular retail store, how you place your merchandise on the website can increase your potential sales. Build a product database, particularly if you are going to be advertising multiple items. You’ll need to find a way to display or display your products on your site. Make sure that you have easy access to these items, so that you can make any necessary changes to the prices and descriptions.
Step Six: Advertise
Advertising is the only means to get people into a store, and the same rule applies with e-commerce. As a new e-commerce host, the best method to advertise is by getting listed with online search engines and directories. Submission programs like selfpromotion.com provide an easy approach to advertise online. It’s simple to use and cost-effective, taking only about twenty dollars annually from your business budget.
Step Seven: Maintain and Gain
So, getting your site up and running is only the beginning. Now, you have to maintain it. Check regularly for missing or broken links, as these look unprofessional and result in lost revenues. Having a broken link on your site is no different than locking the door to your store. If customer’s can’t get in, they’re simply not going to purchase. It’s also crucial to constantly improve your e-commerce site. You’re never too old to learn, and your website is never too good to get better.
You can become an e-commerce host in seven quick steps, but that doesn’t mean you’re work is done. Continued success depends on your ability to upgrade your skills, as well as your website, as often as possible. Markets and technologies change on a daily basis, and you can quickly be left behind.
Tagged with: eCommerce • home business
Filed under: Home Business - MYO