A lot of business owners have had to look closely over their model over the past year, in large part due to the fact that we live in a world that has been entirely changed by COVID-19.
Even if restrictions are likely to keep loosening and some form of normalcy is set to return, we can’t tell if the future might have more waves and more lockdowns prepared.
For that reason, some businesses want to get rid of the risk of having offices closed, and instead are considering going online-only.
Here are a few tips to help make that transition.
Know how to stand out
The online world does extend the reach of your business to thousands if not tens of thousands of new customers, but you’re also now a single voice in a sea of voices, all trying to reach your customer for one thing or the other.
Working with an SEO team can help you get the visibility and attention that your business needs to thrive online by specifically targeting those most likely to convert.
Make it easier to get paid online
Customers have different preferences for not only how they navigate businesses in the online world, but also how they pay.
After all, cash is out of the question. The correct answer depends on the nature of your business.
If you’re providing ongoing services over a period of time, you may want to switch to invoicing or even to direct debits.
A merchant account is essential for those who want to keep taking payments directly, especially in eCommerce.
Making the payment process as pain-free and smooth as possible is key to making sure you don’t lose customers right at the point of conversion.
Creating a conversion machine
Your website is the home of your business, it provides information, gives customers the opportunity to get the help and support that they need, and fulfills all manner of other purposes.
Most importantly, however, it’s the primary tool for driving online conversions.
Make sure your website is built in a way that continuously funnels visitors to the point of sale.
Conversion rate optimization is a process that can help you eliminate all the parts of website design that can get in the way of this, making sure you’re winning the leads and sales that you should.
Keeping the team in touch
Running a business online isn’t only about how you deal with the customers’ needs and win them over.
If you’re closing the physical shop or office, then you’re likely to be moving to a remote team, as well, which means you need to rethink how you communicate.
Team management software is being used to manage conversations and shared projects across teams of all sizes much more effectively than you would by relying on email or on direct messaging apps alone, so it’s worth considering adopting them.
Making a business online only is not a small change by any means. Hopefully, the tips above can help you make that transformation as carefully and smartly as possible.
(Disclaimer: This content is a partnered post. This material is provided as news and general information. It should not be construed as an endorsement of any investment service. The opinions expressed are the personal views and experience of the author, and no recommendation is made.)