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How to start an online store?

by | May 19, 2022 | Online business | 0 comments

Do you want to create your own online store?

We know that building an online business can seem tedious, especially if you're not tech-savvy.

But don't worry, we are here to help and we will teach you how to build your own online store in a few easy steps.

Step 1: Develop a business plan and choose a niche

The e-commerce market is very broad, so you will have to choose where you will focus your efforts in order to be profitable. You can choose to sell products in a certain niche or to offer services.

If you sell products, it is important to ensure that there is a demand for the product in the market. Because the last thing you want to do is spend time and money setting up an online store only to find out that no one is interested in what you're selling.

To develop a good business plan, ask yourself the following questions

  • Who is your target audience?
  • What needs does your target audience have that you can satisfy?
  • What are your unique selling points?
  • How will you reach your target audience?

Step 2: Choose the right platform

Now that you have a business plan, it is time to choose the platform for your online store. There are many platforms to choose from and it can be hard to decide which one is right for you. But don't worry, we will help you make the right decision.

To choose the right platform, consider the following factors:

  • Platform cost
  • Easy to use
  • Feature Set
  • Flexibility

Some platforms we recommend are:

It is important to clarify that it is the platform you choose, you must acquire a domain and hosting (in case you choose WordPress). Regarding the domain, you can buy it at GoDaddy or NameCheap. And for hosting we recommend Bluehost, Hostgator or WP Engine.

Step 3: Set up your online store

Now that you have a platform and a domain, it's time to set up your online store.

WordPress

If you use WordPress, the first thing you need to do is install the WooCommerce plugin. This plugin will transform your WordPress site into an online store.

Once the WooCommerce plugin is installed and activated, you can start adding products to your store. To do this, go to the Products section and click Add New.

Now you have to fill in the product details like name, price, description, etc. Once you have finished adding the product details, click Publish.

Repeat this process for all the products you want to sell in your online store.

Wix

If you use Wix, the first thing you have to do is choose a template for your online store. Wix has a wide selection of templates to choose from, so you're sure to find one that fits your needs.

Once you've chosen a template, you can start adding products to your online store. To do this, go to the Add Product page and fill in the product details like name, price, description, etc.

After you have finished adding the product details, click Publish. Repeat this process for all the products you want to sell in your online store.

Shopify

If you use Shopify, the first thing you have to do is sign up for a Shopify account. You can sign up for a 14-day free trial to get started.

Once you've signed up, you'll be taken to the Shopify admin. From here you can start adding products to your store. To do this, go to the Products page and click Add product.

Now you have to fill in the product details like name, price, description, etc. Once you have finished adding the product details, click Save. Repeat this process for all the products you want to sell in your online store.

Step 4: Design your store

The next step is to design your store. Your store design should be in keeping with the products you sell. For example, if you sell children's products, you should use bright colors and fun fonts.

There are many ways to design your store. You can hire a designer, use an additional plugin or platform template, or use a pre-made theme.

If you use WordPress, there are plenty of themes to choose from. Some are Storefront, WooCommerce Customizer, and Shop Isle.

In case you use Wix, you can choose from a wide selection of templates. Simply go to the templates page and browse through the available options.

If you use Shopify, you can choose from a wide selection of themes. Just go to the Themes page and browse through the available options.

Step 5: Add products to your store

Although we have previously mentioned how to add products depending on the platform you have chosen, in this section we will emphasize what elements you should emphasize when adding your product:

  • Descriptions
  • Images
  • Prices

Descriptions should be short, catchy, and to the point. They must be able to explain what the product is, what it does, and why the customer needs it.

Images are also important because they allow customers to get a better idea of ​​what the product looks like. Be sure to use high-quality images that are clear and concise.

Prices should be set at a competitive level. You don't want to overprice your products and discourage customers from making a purchase. You also don't want to underprice your products and leave money on the table.

Step 6: Establish how the shipment will be

We must establish how the shipment will be:

  • Will you offer free shipping?
  • Will you charge for shipping?
  • How long will it take for the product to arrive?

Be sure to answer these questions before launching your store. Customers need to know what to expect in terms of shipping so they can make an informed decision about whether or not to make a purchase.

Step 7: Set up payment methods

You have to decide which payment methods you are going to accept. You can choose a payment gateway or make cash on delivery. Some of the most popular payment gateways are PayPal, Stripe, and 2Checkout.

Once you've decided on the payment methods you're going to accept, you need to set them up. This process will vary depending on the platform you use.

If you use WordPress, there are plugins that allow you to accept payments through PayPal, Stripe payments, etc.

If you use Wix, you can go to the App Market and choose from a wide selection of payment options.

If you use Shopify, then you can go to the Shopify Payments page and choose from a wide selection of payment options.

Step 8: Launch your store

Now that you have everything ready and configured. It's time to launch your online store so that it begins to attract customers, either through paid ads on social networks or through organic content.

Done! Now you have your online store!

What recommendation would you give regarding the creation of an online store? We read you in the comments.

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