The world of business is highly competitive, and no matter what it is your company does- you can bet there are many others out there doing a similar kind of thing. What this means is that there are lots of businesses competing for the same customers and if yours isn’t up to scratch, they can quite happily shop with someone else. These means that the bar is set high, and if you want to stand a chance to do well you absolutely have to be up to standard. Here are just three things (of many!) that customers will expect of any business they shop from.
Efficient Shipping and Returns
These days we live in a world of instant gratification. When we order online, we don’t want to be waiting around for weeks for our purchase. When companies like Amazon now offer same day delivery on some items, as consumers it’s becoming easier to get what we want, when we want it. So businesses really need to keep up. While you won’t be expected to be able to offer same day delivery right now, you do need to ensure that your shipping and returns are fast and efficient. You could look into managing your own fleet if you will be shipping lots of items worldwide, companies like Sertica.com can make this a possibility. Otherwise, make sure you’re hiring the best delivery company. Many offer gps tracking and text alerts to customers, and they can even reschedule deliveries while the driver is en-route. Returns should be fast and free, with the money credited back to your customers account as soon as possible. These kinds of features can make customers more likely to continue shopping with you.
Excellent Customer Service
You might run the best business in the world, offering products or services that people want, at the right price. However bad customer service will give people a negative impression of your company, and can put them off so badly that they never return. Hire customer service representatives that are friendly and experienced- who know the trials and tribulations that the job can bring, and are able to stay pleasant and polite in the face of adversity. They should have the correct training so they know the kinds of situations that may crop up and how to deal with them. These people are the face of your company, you need to hire the right workers to make a good impression on customers.
Great Online Presence
It’s tough for new businesses. As a rule, people like to shop at established and well known companies as they’re seen as more trustworthy- so when you’re just starting out it can be difficult to encourage people to put their faith in you. But there are things you can do to show people that you’re genuine. Creating a good online presence is one of them, this shows customers that you’re here to stay. A professional website, a responsive app, a well written blog and properly run social media accounts are all examples.
