If you’re an eCommerce business, social media is something you simply cannot afford to ignore. Below, Payflex guest blogger Chloe Ashton lists a few essential eCommerce social media marketing tips that have worked for her.
TIP 1: PROVIDE GOOD CONTENT
When it comes to convincing B2B customers to buy products over the Internet, high-quality content ranks as the single most important factor. But not everyone gets it right. The Marketo Engagement Gap report puts this in clear numbers:
– 61% of marketers believe they engage with the right content.
– 56% of consumers believe businesses need to have a deeper understanding of their needs.
– 51% of consumers believe brands send too much irrelevant content.
When it comes to eCommerce, persuasive and powerful content is the cornerstone of selling online when it’s up against the likes of brick-and-mortar sales. Customers base their decisions on content in its many forms – descriptions, images, videos, and product demos to name a few. So, pay attention to the finer details for better results.
TIP 2: SELL THE EXPERIENCE, NOT THE PRODUCT
Humans by nature, are always on the lookout for a good deal. So, when you market your eCommerce business on social media, ensure that’s top of mind. It is all about perception and how you make customers feel when they purchase your product or service. According to research compiled by PWC, 86% of buyers are willing to pay more for a great customer experience.
Supplying a variety of payment options is one of the many ways that can enhance a user’s experience. That’s why having Payflex as an option is ideal. Not only is the experience sold and fulfilled, but it’s always in budget.
TIP 3: SIMPLIFY, SIMPLIFY, SIMPLIFY
Common reasons consumers abandon online carts can be linked back to excessively high extra costs, such as shipping fees and taxes, lengthy sign-ups, or complicated checkout processes. So, when you’re marketing your eCommerce business on social media, make it simple for customers to browse and buy. An example of an unobtrusive way to inform users about payment is adding a “calculate shipping” feature to the shopping cart.
TIP 4: HAVE A PLAN
Going into a cave with no flashlight is not ideal. Neither is marketing your eCommerce business on social media without a strategy. If you want to sell, you need to have a plan. According to ReTargeter, 98% of users do not convert on their first visit to a website. So, ask all the questions, look at the insights that each platform is willing to offer, and ensure you’re paying attention to your customers every step of the way for a fierce eCommerce success story.
TIP 5: EMBRACING ‘BUY NOW, PAY LATER’
The world is embracing the “buy now, pay later” (BNPL) payment option now more than ever. From 2018 to 2019, downloads of BNPL apps increased by 162%, according to the Buy Now Pay Later March 2020 Tracker report. BNPL options such as Payflex understand that people are becoming more budget conscious and credit averse. That’s why I keep Payflex close to my heart, and even closer to my wallet when I’m on the lookout for a great find.
TIP 6: DON’T UNDER PROMISE, DO OVER DELIVER
Managing customer expectations when marketing your eCommerce business on social media is and will always be a tough one. My advice is to ensure you’re listening to your clients. Answer them on all of your platforms as quick as possible. And, if you can, add in a little something extra to make them feel appreciated. This doesn’t have to cost you money, it could be as simple as sending a personalised note.
TIP 7: SECURITY IS PRIORITY
When it comes to secure, safe transactions online, you must ensure that your eCommerce security is nothing less than a priority. If we had to compare an eCommerce business to a traditional physical store, there are no security guards, surveillance cameras, or alarms to ensure that your customers can shop in safety. So, update payment gateway security systems, use firewalls, and install antivirus and anti-malware software for the wellbeing of your business, and most importantly, your customers.
Chloe Ashton is a copywriter, handbag designer, and an eCommerce enthusiast. She likes to think of herself as a witty observer of ‘serious’ fashion and pop culture.
