Many people in Joburg create products and search for a platform to sell them. An online platform might just be the answer. A Joburg resident, Jono Dangoumou, has done just this and started an online business to sell his products. He compiled a list of tips to assist residents to start their very own online business.
- Find a need
Identify a need for your target market and fill it. If you don’t fulfil a need customers have, there might not be a big demand for your product.
- Give it a go
Many people who create things are afraid to take the first steps to sell their products. Don’t get too hung up on developing a perfect business plan. Get started and you will quickly find out if potential customers want to buy your product or not. Your interactions will let you in on what customers like about your product and what you can improve to better suit their needs.
- What makes your product different
Think about things that make your products unique. If you have a unique selling proposition, your customers won’t mind paying a bit more for something they can’t find at the local mall. For example, do you only use organic ingredients in your hand creams?
- Keep start-up costs down
If you had to develop an e-commerce website from scratch it could cost thousands. You can use sites that allow you to start your own online store and pay a monthly plan that suits your budget once your store grows. Spend money on things that will increase sales.
- Get social
Promote your product through social media platforms. Choose the ones where your target market is most active. Make sure you deliver quality content on these platforms. Remember social media is a two-way conversation.
- Quality photos and product descriptions
A disadvantage of online shopping is that people can’t physically touch or see the products. Quality photos of the products and a detailed description will go a long way.
- Testimonials and reviews
You’ve made a few sales and received some good feedback, so let potential customers know. Share what happy customers had to say. Do it on your website or on social media. See a negative comment as an opportunity to improve.
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