Small Business Blog

Earth Skater's take on the trends in e-commerce
Posted by earthskater

Effective Strategies to Launch Your Online Store

E-commerce
Once you decide to open up an online store, the procedures for launching it can be quite overwhelming. There are a lot of decisions that you need to make, and focusing your efforts in the wrong areas can lead to days of wasted effort and money. Fortunately, you don’t need to step into the abyss of the ecommerce world blindly. There are tons of online store, which you can learn from, and you can also use these effective strategies to launch your online store. 7696fcce.slide-1-boutique-woman

Choose An Easy And Convenient Shopping Cart

The more time you spend determining the best shopping cart for your business, the less time you will have to focus on other core aspects of your store. Make an easily accessible shopping cart system your first priority when launching your online store. The most convenient way to begin is by using fully hosted, subscription based cart. These services help take care of all the hosting, technical details, and payment integration so that you can online store setup quickly.

Try It Out Yourself

When starting an online store, marketers recommended that you take care of the first few hurdles yourself. If you don’t have an idea how your business works, you might end up making huge blunders later. If you have a basic understanding, you won’t have to rely on your designers to take care of minor alterations or tasks. Additionally, working on your online store yourself makes you prioritize what’s important- what needs to be done now, and what can wait. You are more likely to save, and less likely to make mistakes that will result in customer disappointment later.

Launch ASAP

You might have those perfectionist tendencies in you where you might have ended dragging a project just because you though you could do better. However, that is not a good approach for your online store. Trying to invest time and tons of money into creating a store that perfectly addresses your customer needs and wants is somewhat a waste of time; instead, focus on having a basic store live first, where you can interact with and get to know your customers. Once you have a better understanding of your niche, you can move on to improving your store, and while you are at it, you will certainly have wrung up a few sales, too.
Posted by earthskater

Critical Questions You Must Know the Answer to When Building Your Online Store

E-commerce
Building an online store isn’t a piece of cake – it is a face that you give to your brand and business and that face needs to be the best in order for you to meet your revenue goals. Launching an online store can definitely be a daunting task for small businesses as they are already short on time, staff, and money. However, as a professional service, we can help you with your online store in with the top ecommerce solutions. You might have tons of confusions when you decide to have an online store for your business, but here are some questions that you should definitely be able to answer:

How Do I Start?

If you plan to create an online store yourself, think again. There might be plenty of platforms out there that allow you to design a fully functional online store in no time, but you wouldn’t be able to get the professional result you might be looking for. Of course, if you are low on budget, you can go with alternative options in the beginning, but it is highly advised that you utilize the services of a professional web designing service.

How Can I Customize The Overall Look Of My Website In The Best Manner?

If your company already has a website, then you should focus on creating your ecommerce website to reflect your existing online presence in the best manner. All the logos, colors, and schemes on your online store should resemble those on your original website. If you don’t really have a business website, choose the color schemes and backgrounds that complement your logo.

What Type Of Payment System Should I Use?

You can offer many payment methods to your customers. PayPal is currently the most used payment method as it enables quick transfers, and many online shoppers use PayPal accounts. However, PayPal charges around 2.9% on each transaction, which might not seem much in the beginning, but it might add up to become a huge sum at the end. Choose wisely, and consider all factors like timely payments, no errors, and any think that your customers value more.

How Can I Track The Success Of My Store?

You can select an ecommerce vendor that offers easily viewable analytic which are often driven by Google. These reporting tools allow you to keep track of your online store’s performance by using performance indicators like the number of people visiting your store, and how often.

How Do I Attract Buyers?

As soon as your ecommerce store is live, start up with the marketing activities. Place links to your stores address, on your business website, social media pages, and other video hosting websites like YouTube. Updating your company’s social media statuses a few times a day can also help you drive traffic to your store by drawing in attention to content, and other offerings like daily deals and promotions. If you are looking for the best-looking ecommerce store, that gets you the ROI you planned on, be sure to contact us today!
Posted by earthskater

Top Content Marketing Tips for Your Online Store

Web Design

Getting the right amount of traffic on your site is important. Without the right amount of daily views, your website will end up going out of business in no time. Improving your website to be able to attract the right amount of customers is not easy and at times, it might become too overwhelming.

If you have been operating an online store for a short period, you probably understand the importance of content marketing in ecommerce. Ecommerce content marketing can help you reel in ideal customers by boosting your website rankings on popular search engines. This way, you show up in the top of your competition and you are at better chances of having an online store that stays functional in the long run.

Here are some tips that can help you with ecommerce content marketing for your online store.

Write a blog post with different ways to use your Products

‘The best 5’, ‘the top 10’ articles are quite popular among readers because of their readability, as most readers on the internet like to skim through content they come across. A list of different ways to use your products as a blog post can be a highly useful way to create relevant content that has a high potential to be shared through social media channels and other platforms.

Another benefit of such a list is that it will most likely include answers to a range of things that your customers are trying to find a solution for when looking it up on Google.

Create A Simple Video

Videos can be a powerful piece of content, especially for ecommerce websites, and we are talking about simple videos, that don’t really take much time to load. You can create a simple video using product images, descriptions, and audio.

You can also add in customer pictures and quotes from testimonials. Videos are hands down one of the most shared content on social media platforms and you can expect to generate valuable online traffic and awareness about your products using videos.

Design An Appealing Infographic

Infographics are gradually becoming a valuable content marketing tool, especially for online stores. For an example, you can design an infrographic that includes the different shapes, sizes, and colors of a specific product with different buying options and the reasons someone would buy each one. Infograophics are also a great way to build back-links to your website and help boost your search engine rankings.

If you need help with developing a priceless, online store that delivers great value to your customers and is fully optimized to show up on top of search engines, then contact us today!

For more detail please visit : http://www.earthskater.com/

Posted by earthskater

Introduction to Online Shopping Cart Systems

E-commerce
When you’re looking to kick start your online business, you need a fool proof plan. Everything needs to be in place. Your online storefront must have an in-built system whereby your customers can make purchases; this is the online shopping cart system. With the number of options out there, with various price ranges, the choice of selecting the right one can be daunting. However, first, before making a hasty decision, let’s take a look at how the system functions. Here is a rundown- Shopping Cart Systems 101!

Shopping Cart Systems: What Options do you have?

Before we dive into the specifics of what your decision should be based on, let’s understand your options. Typically, there are three types of software that you can choose from:

1.     Ordering System Software

This is the most basic kind. If you just want to create a link of the purchase onto your e-commerce website, then this is ideal. Basically, with order system software, you develop an “order” button for each product that is displayed. When your customer clicks on it, they are led to an order system where the transaction is completed. Here are some examples of order system software:
  • PayPal Payment Standards
  • LinkPoint
  • Authorize.net
  • BluePay

2.     Store-Building Software

Looking to take your e-commerce shopping cart system to the next level? With online store software, you can! If your website has hundreds of products to display, you need something that can manage the complexity effectively. This software system handles the products, their prices, taxation, shipping calculations, etc. With numerous price discounts and promotions being introduced, this system allows you to maintain and manage a database from a single web interface. Some examples include:
  • Magento
  • Yahoo! Merchant Services
  • Miva Merchant

3.     Specialized Systems

If you want to go all out on your shopping cart, then this is the best way to go! Previously, we’ve talked about a general purpose software. This is a specialized system that is unique and customized. There are two different types of specialized systems: B2B Sales: With customers who are businesses itself, you need some additional features. This software provides you with just that. You can manage customer accounts and individual pricing schemes. Membership Sites: The second type is membership kinds that offer subscription sites. Paying for a specific period, your customers can have access to games, photographs, etc.

Looking for the best online store builder?

Earth Skater is an innovative and creative e-commerce company that will design, develop, and market your online store. They provide a complete online store setup, web design layouts, customer support system, and so much more. The company has an impressive portfolio, with experience working with one of the leading brands in the USA. Furthermore it is also accredited by the BBB. For more information check out the following details: Phone Number (toll free): 877-627-2492   Email: info@earthskater.com
Posted by earthskater

How to select a Professional Web Design Service for your Online Business?

Web Design
Selecting the best web design company is no easy choice. Your online store is the only thing that customers see of your company. It serves as the face of your business on the internet. This is why, finding the right team of professionals is essential; you’re not just asking them to develop a website, you’re entrusting your business to them. Here are some questions you should ask your online store builder to gauge their credibility and expertise:

Question # 1: What is the Structure of the Business?

If you hand over your project to a small organization that doesn’t have a big team, then you may encounter risks of delays. On the other hand, a too large of an organization would mean that your project may be stuck in the “pipeline of bureaucracy”. Ask them if they have a dedicated team dedicated for each project. Who will be working with you? Can they introduce you to your “go-to” person for the job?

Question # 2: What Assurance can they provide you that your Project will be executed in a timely manner?

It is important to get a completion date of the project so that you can prepare for a launch. The web development company should agree upon a date. Furthermore, take it in writing from them, so that there isn’t any confusion or delays.

Question # 3: Will You have Complete Access to the Project?

There are a few questions that you should ask your developer regarding the coding and the license of the project. First, will are they using coding standards accepted by the industry? After the completion of the project, will you own the work, or is there an additional license fee?

Question # 4: How do they measure the Results of the Website?

Building your site is just one step. It is essential that people know of its existence. That’s where marketing tools like search engine optimization and affiliate tracking program come in. This generates more traffic onto your site, enhancing business sales.

Don’t Settle! Work with the best; get in touch with us now!

Earth Skater is an innovative and creative e-commerce company that will design, develop, and market your online store. They provide a complete online store setup, web design layouts, customer support system, and so much more. The company has an impressive portfolio, with experience working with one of the leading brands in the USA. Furthermore it is also accredited by the BBB. Call us on our toll free number, 877-627-2492 or email us at info@earthskater.com. For more detail visit : http://www.earthskater.com
Posted by earthskater

E-Commerce Hosting and Your Online Business

E-commerce
An e-commerce business is perhaps the best way to start up a small business. There are no overhead costs, you’re not tied down to one specific location, and there’s a world of opportunities to tap into. Here you can build your own virtual storefront, market your products, establish a payment system, and do much more. However, in order to do all that, you will first need to understand the dynamics of e-commerce before you begin your online store development process. Here is an insight on how to get started!

Choose a Domain Name

First and foremost, you will have to register the domain name of your online store. Select one that is a clear reflection of your business name. Another helpful tip when developing the name is to make sure it is simple and memorable enough for your customers’ benefit.

Web Hosting

Your website is a combination of files that are stored in the Web Server. In order to connect to your site, the customer will gain access to the web server through the internet. While some companies take control of the web server options by managing their own software and hardware, it is highly recommended to opt for professional services offered by a Web hosting company. For a yearly or monthly fee, such a company will provide you with limited or unlimited space (depending on your choice), and will allow your website to be stored, and therefore viewed, on the internet. For businesses looking to get a full e-commerce support system, online store or customer support, Earth Skater offers excellent and affordable expertise on various platforms.

Security of Your Site

With your website developed, what’s the next step? You want customers to choose your store for their shopping requirements, but is your store really secure enough for credit card transactions? Most customers will not give out their credit card information to any store. Therefore, make sure you sign up for a merchant account with a reputable online payment processor.  Check out the best merchant account options for you.

Looking for the best web store hosting?

Earth Skater is an innovative and creative e-commerce company that will design, develop, and market your online store. They provide a complete online store setup, web design layouts, customer support system, and much more. The company has an impressive portfolio, with experience working with one of the leading brands in the USA. Furthermore, it is also accredited by the BBB. For more information, feel free to call us on our Toll free number (877-627-2492) or email us at info@earthskater.com.
Posted by earthskater

Add Credit Card Payment to Your E-Commerce Website

E-commerce, Merchant Accounts

Customers value convenience…

It’s that simple. Set up an online store, add all necessary features, verify its legitimacy, market your website, and you are good to go! When you create a place for customers where they can get what they need, all in one place, you may see some positive results in your business. With a credit card payment system, you can accomplish much success for your online store. Here is how your business can benefit from this strategic addition:

Establishes Legitimacy of Business

Most customers judge an e-commerce site based on the interface and the payment system. If you don’t have any purchase system software, you leave your customers dissatisfied. On the other hand, with all the right features and credible payment system, you build customer loyalty, and provide your customer with added options. This develops a sense of legitimacy.

Cost Effective & Time Saving

Most entrepreneurs feel that getting a merchant payment account to develop a payment system is expensive. Of course it’s not free. Yet the advantages of it outweigh the cost. Ideally, when a customer makes a credit card purchase, the cash is transferred directly into your bank account. With alternatives like money orders and checks, the process is elaborate and time consuming.

Bigger Sales

For big purchases, most customers do not prefer the installment process. It can be quite tiresome. Instead, they’re rather instantly purchase with their credit card, on full payment. This way, instead of receiving a first installment payment, you instantly receive full payment on expensive items.

The Potential

If you think developing a merchant account is complicated, there are simpler options available. Many applications are now developed that allows you a platform where you can simply accept credit card payments through your online portal. While there are several advantages available of credit card system, there are also many risks involved pertaining to frauds and security. So make sure to ask you get expert advice to make credit card transactions safe! Feel free to call us for more information on your online store development! Earth Skater is an innovative and creative e-commerce company that will design, develop, and market your online store. They provide a complete online store setup, web design layouts, customer support system, and so much more. The company has an impressive portfolio, with experience working with one of the leading brands in the USA. Furthermore it is also accredited by the BBB. We look forward to hearing from you! Phone Number (toll free): 877-627-2492 Email: info@earthskater.com For more detail visit : http://www.earthskater.com/
Posted by earthskater

E-Commerce Hosting – Everything you need to know

E-commerce, SEO

E-Commerce Hosting – Everything You Need To Know

Currently, ecommerce is one of the most thriving business structures available for any business that lacks a large amount of initial startup capital.   If you’ve decide to take advantage of this emerging trend, fret not. Just follow this guide on everything you need to know to set up your online store!

Step 1: Develop the Right Domain Name

This may seem simple enough; all you have to do is select a company name, and turn it into a URL.  However, this is where many virtual companies go wrong.  They tend to come up with names that are complicated or difficult to remember.  Make sure it is something unique, short, and most importantly, memorable!  Search for the availability of domain names.   Next, you should register it with the right web hosting company.

Step 2: Set Up your Website with an Online Store Company

Your Online Store/Web hosting company will provide you with the infrastructure that will help connect all your business to the internet.  The right web hosting company will provide you with domain registry,  custom development of the site,  email accounts,  an affiliate marketing program, and the best website service and maintenance options.  So when out looking for a web hosting company, here’s what you need to keep in mind:
  • What does website service and maintenance cost
  • How often are they available?
  • Email accounts provided
  • SSL Encryption
  • Regular security auditing
  • Backup options

Step 3: Design An Easy-to-Use Website

It is imperative that the site be simple, and not too cluttered.  Your storefront is what your online store will be judged upon, so design carefully using the right logo, name, introduction about company, product description etc.

Step 4: Make Your E-commerce Store Secure for Customers

With fraud and unauthorized credit card transactions taking place, your customers are going to be wary.  Therefore, make sure you have SSL (Secure Socket Layer) or any standard World Wide Web security protocol already established to build your customers’ trust, and make your website safe.

Step 5: Set up an Internet Merchant Account to Manage Payments

There are several ways to manage payments, but the simplest is to set up a merchant account with any financial institution that will handle the credit card or debit card transactions as per your instructions.

You Get all This with Us!

Earth Skater is an innovative and creative e-commerce company that will design, develop, and market your online store.  We provide a complete online store setup, web design layouts, customer support system, and are accredited by the BBB with an A+ rating. For more information, call us on our Toll free number (877-627-2492) or email us at info@earthskater.com.
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