No one saw this coming – Covid-19 has changed everything in the last couple of months. Whether it is about how we interact or how we shop or how we celebrate – nothing is the same anymore.
One of the many changes we are getting to see is the way we are purchasing things of our need. During this COVID era, there is immense reliance on online shopping and e-commerce stores – whether it is for essentials like grocery or medicines or products like mobile phones and laptops. eCommerce businesses too are doing their best to live up to the expectations of the buyers and to provide the products, within a stipulated time-frame.
eCommerce companies have brought in many changes to the way they operate. With the increase in trends of online purchasing, eCommerce stores are also doing their best to attract customers to their site.
So, what are the few ways by which these companies are ensuring that they stay ahead of the companies and survive the mad rush? Here are some of these ways:
Offering Gift Cards
Well, most of us are staying indoors these days. We are not going out until there is an absolute need. Thus, there might not be a need for items like jewelry or clothing, but there is a chance that these will be required in the future. For all such situations, e-commerce stores are trying to get the attention of the shoppers and to keep them engaged. Gift cards help in promoting not just the eCommerce store but is popular among shoppers as well. They can present them to their near and dear ones on anniversaries, birthdays, holidays, and for other celebrations.
So, next time anyone is looking for something to send online to their online as a gift, these cards are a great option.
Look for Speedy Delivery – Since there is a surge in demand for various products, it is necessary that stores can deliver products within the required timeframe. If any customer needs essentials like vegetables or milk, the customer cannot wait for 7 days. Thus, the online platforms have to ensure that the delivery of goods and products take place on time and customers are served smoothly.
Donating to Charities & Givebacks
Ecommerce businesses are doing their best to stay afloat in this cut-throat competition. They need to ensure the credibility of their brand as well. Keeping everything in mind, givebacks and charities are not an integral part of eCommerce stores. Thus, e-commerce stores are now donating a part of their earnings to social causes or charities. It is a good way to increase the credibility and brand reputation of the e-commerce store.
Make the Most Use of Email Marketing
This is one of the most powerful tools to get in touch with customers. You can ensure that your customers are updated with the details of the products you are selling. Businesses should never stop sending information to their customers. Latest launches, gifts, special giveaways, cashback, and gift cards should be an integral part of email marketing. It is just about letting your customer know that you are still there.
Make the Most of Social Media Livestreams
It is the age of social media. People are now glued to their mobile phones and visiting their social media sites now and then. People are now continuously on social media channels and checking the newsfeed. Thus, it is a great way to connect with people. eCommerce stores can start with a demo of their products. They can have question and answer sessions or even include helpful tips for using a product. It is all about getting creative and doing things in front of followers and customers. It is just a way of reminding your users, that you are there in front of them and you are interacting.
Staying in Touch with Customers
It is essential to ensure that you are in touch with your customers. Ecommerce businesses must ensure that any change in the way of conducting business needs to be communicated. You must ensure that your customers know that you have all those goods which they are looking forward to. During the times of Covid-19, it is essential to ensure that your business is running in the usual way. In case of problems related to delays or when your shipping times are affected, you must inform your customers, so that they know what is happening.
Many customers do not realize that their businesses are operating in the usual way. Thus, it is necessary that your customers are away from the current scenario and they do not choose your competitor business.
Last, but not the least, it is crucial to have a positive way of thinking and mindset. It is important to stay positive.
