THATBlog

Building an e-commerce website from scratch can be a daunting task, but the rewards are worth the effort. The rise of online shopping means that more and more businesses are moving online, and having a well-designed eCommerce website is crucial to stay competitive. But it's not just enough to have a great website - you need to reach and pull in the people who will make a positive impact on your bottom line.

How do you build a website that is ultra-effective in generating traffic to your website?

How to Build an eCommerce Website from Scratch

First… Why build from scratch? 

Especially when there are seemingly endless options for website builders that promise results in minutes. With no experience, no coding knowledge, no worries. And, quite probably, no traffic! Building a website that is customized to your brand’s unique identity and needs helps you reach your audience more effectively. It creates an image of you in their mind: You are not generic. You are not a “take the easy way out” type of business. You are not the same as a million other search results they could click on to.

On to the how.

Choose the Right Platform

The first step in building an eCommerce website is to choose the right platform. There are many different options available, some better than others when it comes to achieving your goals. Some popular options include Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento. Consider factors such as ease of use, cost, and customization options when choosing a platform.

Put a heavy emphasis on customizability. If you do not go with a web developer/designer, then choose a platform that allows you to create a unique, engaging experience for visitors without looking like a thousand other websites out there. Your platform should allow you to integrate your brand personality, style, and identity consistently and cohesively. 

Optimize for Search Engines

Search engine optimization (SEO) is crucial for driving traffic to your website. Make sure your website is optimized for keywords related to your products or services. Include relevant keywords in your product descriptions, meta descriptions, and page titles. Additionally, make sure your website is mobile-friendly and has a fast loading speed, as these factors can also impact your search engine rankings.

Why is SEO important? Well… There is an old, and very terrible joke: Where’s the best place to hide a dead body? On the third page of the Google results. Meaning, some people (not many) will click through to the second page, but few make it further. It’s a great way to “bury” your brand. SEO helps you gain essential visibility. 

Create High-Quality Content

Content is king when it comes to generating traffic to your website. Create high-quality content related to your products or services, such as blog posts, infographics, how-tos, tutorials, and videos. Share your content on social media and other platforms to drive traffic back to your website. This is an exciting time for content, as we’ve seen the meteoric success of platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Think outside the box: what mediums and topics appeal to your audience? How can you use that knowledge to demonstrate your authority in your space?

Utilize Email Marketing

The reigning ruler of the ROI! Email marketing is a powerful tool for driving traffic to your website, and the average return is about $36 for every $1 invested. Collect email addresses from your customers and send out regular newsletters with promotions, new products, and other updates. Make sure your emails are visually appealing and have clear calls to action to encourage customers to visit your website.

Leverage Social Media

Social media is a great way to promote your eCommerce website and generate traffic. Create profiles on popular social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Share photos and information about your products or services, and interact with your followers to build relationships and encourage engagement. Don’t let the conversation happen; be involved, and guide it.

Offer Promotions and Discounts

Everyone loves a good deal, so offering promotions and discounts can be a powerful way to generate traffic to your website. Consider offering a discount to first-time customers or running a limited-time promotion on popular products.

Leverage Influencer Marketing

Influencer marketing is a popular way to generate buzz and drive traffic to your website. Reach out to influencers in your space and ask them to partner with you to promote your products or services to their followers. It is essential to select influencers who have a genuine connection to your brand and can help you reach your target audience in an authentic way. 

Use Paid Advertising

Paid advertising can be a powerful way to drive traffic to your e-commerce website. Consider using platforms such as Google Ads or Facebook Ads to target your ideal customer and drive traffic to your website. Make sure to track your results and adjust your campaigns as necessary to optimize your return on investment.

THAT Can Help

Building an eCommerce website from scratch can be a time-consuming and challenging process, but with some time and effort, you can create a website that generates traffic and drives sales. By integrating the strategies discussed, you'll be on your way to building a successful business. And if you need help, THAT Agency is here. Contact us to learn how we can help you build your brand.