The eBiz Blog

Online businesses have created a myriad of opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. With ecommerce replacing many conventional business practices, skilled individuals from various backgrounds can achieve business success using basic and creative sales, marketing and customer service strategies. Starting an online business is a realistic undertaking. However, the thought of competing with giants such as Amazon can sometimes be overwhelming. By implementing the following tips, your online startup business can thrive and stay competitive in the ecommerce world.

Stand Out Through Shipping

It can be difficult for online startups to compete with ecommerce giants that offer free shipping, same-day shipping and tracking options. Even though most startup businesses don’t have the budget to match these services, some consumers are beginning to place expectations of those shipping options on all online retailers. Fortunately, there are ways you can meet the shipping needs of your customers while setting yourself apart from larger businesses. According to Forbes, customers are increasingly interested in authenticity and having a unique experience. Your company may not be able to offer the instant gratification of same-day shipping, but it can provide a personal touch that makes the customer feel he or she is getting something real.

Brainstorm ways you can transform your shipping into a personal, authentic, and one-of-a-kind experience. For example, include simple hand-written notes with every order to thank them and give suggestions of other products the customer might like. Or possibly alternative ways to use the products ordered.

Improve Your SEO Strategy

One of the biggest advantages ecommerce giants have is their search engine optimization (SEO). Think about the last time you searched for a product on Google. It is likely one of the first hits was from Amazon or Wal-Mart. You can compete with that though by again, being more personal and more authentic. Big companies use a lot of automation in their SEO efforts and a lot of times it shows. By humanizing your product descriptions and interactions with customers, you gain an advantage over big automation operations. Improve your company’s SEO by building a strong online presence via your website, social media and blog. When it comes to your social media accounts, such as Facebook and Twitter, make the most out of your postings and profile. For example, your tweets should be rich in keywords, and your content should be informative and high-quality. Frequently blogging about trending topics relevant to your industry is another great way to boost your SEO. Search engines are drawn to URLs that are active, relevant and informative. Additionally, an active website will encourage shares among individuals and companies alike, giving your SEO the boost it needs to stay competitive. If this means giving your website a complete revamp by using our Web development software, do so.

Broaden Your Horizons

Small business owners can sometimes feel intimidated by their competitors’ global reach. Expanding from local to national to international sales certainly comes with challenges. However, expanding in that way can make you more competitive. Fortunately, the Internet has made that transition easier. Small businesses may actually have an advantage when it comes to global expansion because the internet gives you reach that you otherwise wouldn't have. Consumers in India, China, and other parts of the world are becoming increasingly wealthy because of continued global expansion. This is resulting in a higher demand for products that are not mass produced and that are of high quality. That means smaller online companies can provide global consumers with the specialty products they are looking for.

Starting an online business comes with many challenges. For aspiring entrepreneurs, this an exciting time to get involved in ecommerce. By implementing these tips, your online business can thrive and remain competitive among the largest of ecommerce giants.