Online store failure is pretty common, and it could take a few goes before you get it right, especially with minimal experience. However, there are some methods you can use that will increase the chances of a successful launch, from website optimization to customer service.
Work with Professionals
eCommerce failure is common, at over 90%! So, as Master Yoda says, “Do or do not. There is no try”. This might seem a little harsh when getting a business off the ground, but there is a way around it. Working with experts is one of the best options you have if you are willing to go to the light side and hand over some control! For example, professional Shopify website development teams have the knowledge and skills to elevate your online business above your competitors.
Optimize Your Website
Remember when you had to wait for five minutes for a homepage to load over 56K dialup? Okay, so why on earth should a website take just as long in 2025 with data transfer literally at the speed of light? Page speed is essential for retaining customers, as most will bounce after waiting for 2 seconds! Of course, there’s more to it than speed, too. A modern site must be easy to navigate, offer a simplified layout, and use high-quality images, videos, and descriptions.
CC0 Licensed Image Courtesy of Pexels
Avoid Online Store Failure with Cybersecurity
Security is among the most critical systems for users today. Like an unseen raccoon in the night, hackers are the scourge of modern businesses. The least you must do is update your business payment systems to more secure ones. However, there are other measures you can take:
- Ensure your site requires complex passwords with numbers, capitals, and symbols.
- Migrate your eCommerce store domain to servers with secured SSL certification.
- Implement enhanced login strategies such as multifactor authentication tools.
Just these simple changes can make a massive difference to online business security. Believe it or not, a Dashlane report titled the eCommerce Security Roundup concluded that 80% of online storefronts failed simple password tests, including giants like eBay, Macy’s and IKEA.
Invest in Customer Service
You’ve probably had one of those calls trying to sort an issue with a product or service that leaves you wanting to throw the phone out of the window! If you know how bad that feels, why would you put your own customers through it? Nailing customer service is one of the most powerful tools you have, as most businesses don’t put any thought into it. Quick service, up-to-date notes on a shared system, and even chatbots can enhance everyone’s CX!
Market Your Business Well
There’s pretty much no business when nobody knows who you are, and online surfers of the information superhighway just pass you by like a Dickensian beggar in the street! Marketing is a robust tool you have, and it’s easier than ever. Digital marketing can even be started for free with a Facebook business page. However, any modern digital marketing strategy also involves on-page SEO, emails, and, of course, tailoring content to a relevant audience or business niche.
Summary
Working with professionals will help you avoid online store failure in modern business. However, your business can also fail if it has poor cybersecurity. And let’s not forget about marketing. SEO and social media are your best friends when marketing products to a modern 2025 audience.
