The global number of online buyers had grown to 2.71 billion in 2024. This number is projected to increase further, reaching approximately 2.77 billion by 2025.
Whether you are just starting your eCommerce journey or have been managing an online store for a while, discovering ways to be part of this industry’s immense growth can be a responsibility that’s pretty hefty to carry.
Fortunately, there are numerous eCommerce strategies available to attract and retain customers for your online business. The key is to identify the methods that best align with your brand identity and suit your target audience.
eCommerce Strategies to Attract Customers
Maximise User-Generated Content (UGC)
Incorporating elements like videos and reviews into your product pages can help create a more authentic and relatable shopping experience for customers. UGC serves as social proof, allowing potential buyers to see how real users interact with and benefit from your products. UGC can also enhance trust, as customers are more likely to believe in the experiences of their peers rather than the message being delivered on traditional advertising.
Personalise the shopping experience
Personalisation in marketing means tailoring recommendations, emails, and website experiences based on individual customer behaviour, preferences, or location. For example, Amazon uses algorithms to suggest products based on browsing history and purchase patterns, driving impulse buying and enhancing customer satisfaction. Google Play Books notifying users of price drops on wishlist items is also an example of personalised marketing.
Offer virtual store experiences
Offering virtual store experiences through technologies like augmented reality (AR) can seamlessly bridge the gap between online and in-store shopping. AR enables customers to visualise products in their own environment, allowing them to see how items would look and fit without physically visiting a store.
For instance, furniture retailers use AR to let customers see how a piece of furniture would look in their home before making a purchase. Similarly, beauty brands offer virtual try-on features for makeup and skincare items, allowing customers to test different looks without applying actual products.
Gamify consumer engagement
Gamification elements, such as point-based systems or tiered rewards, introduce a fun and engaging dimension to customer interactions. For example, loyalty programs that offer points create a sense of accomplishment and encourage customers to continue interacting with the brand. Tiered rewards systems, where customers progress through levels based on their engagement, also provide a clear path for advancement and further incentivise loyalty.
Final Thoughts
The average shopping cart abandonment rate for eCommerce websites is around 70%. While this figure highlights how challenging it is for businesses to attract customers and successfully convert them into sales, this number also emphasises the importance of employing the right eCommerce strategies and possessing the necessary knowledge to effectively implement them.