In today’s digital age, e-commerce platforms have emerged as powerful tools for creators seeking to establish thriving businesses. These platforms have revolutionized the way products and services are bought and sold, providing creators with unprecedented opportunities to reach global audiences.
How have e-commerce platforms evolved over the years, and what impact has this had on creators looking to build online stores?
Mr. Kendyson: Much has changed with e-commerce over the years, but something that has had one of the biggest impacts is trust. Years ago, not everyone trusted buying anything online and today, while there’s still lack of trust, it’s a whole lot better and that’s helped more creators with starting online businesses because the embargo of lack of trust is lot less.
In your opinion, what are some of the most significant challenges facing creators who are trying to build and scale their e-commerce businesses?
Mr. Kendyson: At Selar we’re more focused on digital product e-commerce businesses and the challenges creators face selling digital products is a lot different than the ones physical goods sellers face. E.g., Digital product sellers don’t have to deal with logistics issues, loss of goods, etc, because products are delivered instantly to the customer on payment. That being said, both sectors share some challenges in common. E.g payments: collecting payments both locally and internationally has been a problem for the longest and is now getting resolved as more payment companies spring up.
How important is user experience and design when it comes to driving online sales, and what are some of the best practices that creators should keep in mind?
Mr. Kendyson: User experience is very important for online payments. Users browse on very different devices and it’s important that regardless of what they use, they’re able to find what they need and make a purchase. Some other best practices include making sure the number of clicks and steps to order is as short and clear as possible, ensuring all the decisions the buyer needs to make a decision being available and clear, and support being readily available.
What role does mobile commerce play in the e-commerce industry, and how should creators be adapting to this trend?
Mr. Kendyson: On Selar we noticed that about 70-80% of website store visitors use a mobile device, so it is very important. We’re all on our phones today, so every e-commerce website should not just look good on mobile but work smoothly on mobile too.
How can creators effectively leverage social media to drive traffic and sales to their online stores?
Mr. Kendyson: Driving sales on social media is actually a skill. That’s why so many creators in sell courses teach this. Making a right offer to your customers is key, using testimonials tactfully also goes a long way to ensure strangers can trust you enough to pay you when they see your post. So many things go into this.
What are some of the latest trends and innovations in the e-commerce industry, and how are they impacting creators and their businesses?
Mr. Kendyson: I’m seeing things about chat gpt/ai for customer support. Solutions with AI customers can help customers find what they need and answer questions quickly. Also using historical conversation data to help new customers.
There’s still a lot to learn there that could be helpful. With e-commerce customer support is extremely important and any effort towards that would be very impactful to any business.
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How do e-commerce platforms like Selar cater to the specific needs of creators, and what features or capabilities do they offer that are unique?
Mr. Kendyson: We’re more focused on creators selling digital products. We see a need there; and our solution makes it easy for anyone to go to our website; sign up and set up a simple store to sell any kind of digital products; ebooks, courses, trainings, events, etc. We support 11 currencies today, so we make sure anyone anywhere in the world can pay you and we’d credit your account in your local bank account or mpesa or other mobile money.
In your opinion, what does the future of e-commerce look like, and how can creators position themselves for success in this evolving landscape?
Mr. Kendyson: Openness to try new things. Not in a way that’s obsessive m and takes you away from your core but at least look and give it a try (when necessary) before moving on. That would always help.
By understanding the challenges, harnessing innovation, and adopting effective strategies, creators can position themselves for success in the ever-expanding realm of e-commerce.