Published on 03/12/2021 by Any Business.Com.Au

How a strong online presence presents opportunity

In an age where face-to-face business transactions are few and far between, taking your business online whether that's creating a website, blogging or social media, can mean new opportunities and benefits for your business.

People today have more access to information and a broader range of products and services online, making purchases or selling un-required items via their phones during long commutes.

By having a web presence means your business won't be left behind. It can help you increase your engagement, grow your customer base, and provide you with a competitive edge.

Using e-commerce

Buying and selling online is known as e-commerce (electronic commerce), online trading or online shopping. Sometimes e-commerce can also involve a good or service being traded for another good or service.

As a business, you could offer e-commerce on websites, social media and mobile apps (often known as 'in-app' purchasing).

Benefits of e-commerce

Having an online presence can provide a range of new opportunities and benefits for your business.

E-commerce can:

  • allow your business to be open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
  • allow your customers to access your products or services anywhere, anytime
  • help you market your products and services
  • increase customer engagement

It's important that businesses do their research before creating an online presence to ensure they choose an option that is useful and targeted to their business product.

Options for taking your business online

Some of the options for going online are:

  • creating a website for your business
  • opening up an online shop or store, or trading in an online marketplace
  • blogging
  • using social media to reach and communicate with your customers
  • using digital media channels, such as video hosting sites

It's important you do your research before creating your online presence to ensure you choose an option that is useful and targeted to your product or service.

Each online option has pros and cons. Consider the goals of your business, your business model and what you sell, before you decide which approach is best for you.

Directories

Online directories may suit your business if you just want to list your business' contact details online. It also allows you to promote your business in an online space where your potential customers already browsing.

Social Networking Sites

Social media can be an important part of your online presence if one of your key requirements is to promote your brand and business. The different channels (eg: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn) can help you engage with your customers, generate conversation and may improve your chances of building customer loyalty.

eMarketplaces

E-commerce platforms provide a way for you to sell your products online and can have a range of features like inventory management and analytics.

If your goal is to sell products online, joining an online marketplace may meet that requirement without the need to create your own ecommerce website.

Websites

Let's be honest, if you own a business, you need a website!

Websites come in different types, each serving different functions. If you want to sell products or services online, an e-commerce platform may work for you.

If you want a website to inform your customers where you're located and what products or services you supply then a brochure website might be the right fit.

Checklist for business e-commerce

If your business offers products or services online, ask yourself the following questions:

  • Do consumers need specialised software or hardware to trade with you?
  • Are contract terms for purchases clear, accurate and easily accessible by consumers?
  • Have you taken appropriate steps to protect consumers' privacy?
  • Have you provided consumers with payment mechanisms that are easy to use and offer appropriate security?
  • Are consumers informed about any specific laws or jurisdiction applicable to transactions with your business?

Marketing your products

Marketing strategies are a common part of many business plans. However, marketing your product or service over the web can be quite different.
Even if you're experienced in business, it's important to do further research into successful online marketing techniques.

We now live in a world where almost everything is ordered, purchased or sold predominantly online.

There has been no more important time to make sure your business has the online presence it needs to succeed.

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AnyBusiness.com.au

Curtis is a leading expert in the business-for-sale industry, serving as a senior content creator at anybusiness.com.au.

With a career spanning over fifteen years, Curtis has accumulated extensive knowledge in the domain of business sales, acquisitions, and valuations. His deep understanding of market dynamics and his ability to translate complex industry jargon into accessible insights make him a trusted resource for entrepreneurs and business owners looking to buy or sell businesses.

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