With the state of the world nowadays, many people are turning to digital and are looking for ways to secure a more stable income. As the effects of COVID-19 brought about the restructuring and closing of many brick and mortar businesses, it’s finally becoming clear that online companies are the way to go, especially in 2020.
If you’ve been waiting to start your online business and turn your passion into profit, now is the perfect time to do it. Along with flexibility and lesser costs, other significant benefits of online-run businesses include almost unlimited possibilities and the opportunity to tap into a global market.
To help you run a successful online business in 2020, here are some of the most important points you have to cross on your entrepreneur’s list.
Invest in social media
Unlike the past, when social media was just a nice little addition to your marketing plan, in 2020, it’s imperative. Facebook and Instagram are becoming the new Google in terms of researching a business.
For your business to flourish in 2020, you have to be at the top of your social media game. Instagram, in particular. Why? Well, the 1 billion and counting active monthly users, 90% of whom follow at least one business, should be a reason enough.
So, what you need is a solid business Instagram profile nicely curated to provide all the info about your business and more. The more includes captivating content and impeccable customer support.
Amp it up with some nice photo-editing software, a scheduling tool, and a reliable Instagram growth service to get the most out of your Instagram efforts.
Keep an eye on your competition
This is one step very often overlooked by business owners. No matter if you’re just starting out or being an established online business, the benefits of monitoring your competition are multifold.
If you’re researching a couple of business options, looking into who you’d be competing with would help you get a clearer insight.
On the other hand, if you’re trying to acquire more customers, your competition is again your best resource. You can check their marketing and promotion channels, their social media followers, even their backlinks for SEO strategy.
Of course, it doesn’t mean you would copy everything your competition does. It is useful in terms of reference and to get the idea of what works and what you should improve. Always strive to go the extra mile to truly stand out among a similar crowd.
Keep your website growth-friendly
Every aspect of your online presence has to be growth-oriented to achieve the success of your online business.
Your website is one of the essential features of your online business. Think of it as the storefront of your business. Like the physical store, it has to be well organised, attractive, but not too hectic. You basically want the attention on the products and no unnecessary elements.
A simple, eye-catching, intuitive design, functioning, and looking like a coherent unit with an impeccable navigation strategy to increase conversions is what you should go for.
Nurture connections
To run a successful online business in 2020 and beyond requires more than just keeping a solid mailing list and sending promotional offers. It takes some more time and effort. More specifically – building and nurturing connections.
Whether it’s online reviews, comments, DMs, or general email correspondence, customers like their voices heard and their opinion acknowledged. Moreover, they like to be a part of a community of like-minded people.
All of this takes time and effort, but the rewards are absolutely worth it.
Reply to each comment, review, or DM in a respectful and positive attitude. Build an image of a business that appreciates feedback and takes care of each customer.
Generate trust by building a community around your business. Find out what your customers like beside your business, and start meaningful conversations on social media. Instead of just responding to comments, show genuine interest, and reach out first.