With the COVID-19 pandemic closing many storefronts across Canada, consumers are expanding the ways in which they shop. One of these ways is through a greater uptake of online shopping.
Generally e-commerce sales have increased, but some products and services such as groceries, medicine, convenience and subscriptions are doing better than others and have all seen dramatic traffic and sales growth in the new consumer environment.
It goes without saying that a key, perhaps "the" key component of these sales increases is the availability of, and ease with which potential customers can find the products and services they need. Thus, your website and online presence is critical to reach your existing clients and potential new ones. So, what steps should a business take?
- Keep your existing and potential clients informed of your business status
If your clients don't know that you're continuing to offer your services online, then it's possible that they'll look elsewhere for what you offer. Therefore, keeping your site visitors notified that they can still purchase from you is critical.
- Notify visitors of the options available regarding product / service delivery
One of the new standards for companies is to offer contactless delivery or virtual services wherever possible. If you are offering these things, be sure to notify your visitors up-front about this so they don't wonder.
- Leverage the use of social media to advertise to your target market
This is a common suggestion for all businesses - but with more people staying at home, the usage of social media channels is up nearly across the board. Instagram / Instagram stories, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and relative newcomers Twitch and TikTok have all seen usage increases during the COVID-19 pandemic. With such a wide variety of social media platforms, it's a near certainty that one will cater to your key demographic. Therefore, advertising your business on the right platform is an easy way to get your brand in front of your target market.
Back2Front is here to help you navigate the e-commerce landscape at all times - reach out to us at your leisure and we'd be happy to have a discussion with you about how to leverage the tools at your disposal in a consistent way to reach your target market.
