Article provided by Visa
In today’s always-on world, being online lets people know what is special about your business. We have insights and tips that can help you connect online with your customers.
What should your online presence be?
While being online is vital, no two businesses need the same type of online presence. You may want a comprehensive site to display your business – or something simpler might resonate better. We have tips and partners to help set up or upgrade your online store.
Putting your best foot forward online
If you’re ready to take your small business online, here are some tips and best practices to guide you through the process.
Keep it simple
Customers stay longer on user-friendly sites. Most customers will decide whether they want to browse and purchase within minutes.
Embrace the digital storefront
Allowing people to buy directly from your website makes it easier for your customers to buy directly from you, perhaps even in the comfort of their own homes. A good website solution provider takes the hard work out of selling online, helping you to set up a digital storefront for your business.
Enable site search: Customers expect to be able to visit a store and search for specific things like “blue women’s shoes.” Showing the most relevant products will greatly increase the likelihood that they’ll make it to checkout.
Content is key
Plan out what people will see and do when they visit your website. Many site visitors will not want to buy right away so give them reasons to visit and stay other than to buy.
Include how-to guides
How-to guides and project templates help customers plan a project related to the product or service you sell. You may not get direct sales immediately but, keeping customers engaged and online means they will keep returning to your website.
Start small, then expand
Nail the basics first: products, services, hours, offerings, testimonials, and contact information. Features like subscriptions, bookings, and memberships may come later, unless they’re the focus of your business.
Beyond your site—get social
Social media can extend your company’s reach by giving potential customers another channel to engage with you. See best practices for your online presence in the running and growing sections of the Small Business Hub.