With your online store established using SupaDupa's painfree process, it's time to take the next step and reach out to your prospective customers. Here is a selection of cost-effective marketing methods that will increase sales with minimum outlay.

TIPS

1. Use Coupons, Sales And Discounts

Use special discounts during busy shopping times such as the start of a new year! These will entice customers to try your products and is also a great way to get rid of any old stock ready for next season.

2. Dress For Success

While we’re on the subject of season, dress your storefront with relevant shop themes. Just like a bricks and mortar store, a bit of tasteful decoration such as flowers and balloons for Valentine's Day will make your ecommerce store look that much more attractive.

Example by Red Envelope a store specialising in romantic gifts all year round have created a specific Valentine’s Day section. The gorgeous scrapbook-style images on Red Envelope should provide some inspiration.

3. You’ve Got Mail

Email marketing is the most powerful tool in your marketing arsenal. If you’re not using it effectively, you’re missing out on sales. Build up a mailing list of customers. Don’t bombard them with spam that’s just a list of prices and exclamation marks; tailor them to the aspirations of those who visit your store with a well-written missive that offers a personal touch. Set up a newsletter with details of top bargains that you could send out on a monthly basis.

4. Go To Press

Prepare a well-written press release that includes all the details a potential customer would need to know and send it to media outlets. You can do this whenever you like – upon the launch of your store, when unveiling a new line of products or when holding a sale.

5. Address The Issue

Include your store’s URL wherever you can. From email signatures to postcards and magnets and even your car. Promote your store while going about your day and hand out business cards to prospective customers.

6. Get Out There

Use popular social media platforms like Instagram to reach a wider audience. SupaDupa store - RingsandTings, show a great example of using Instagram to promote their latest fashionable products, special offers and most importantly include images of their customers wearing RingsandTings merchandise. Another great way to attract an international consumer base.

Helpful tip: Include your business card with every delivery to truly showcase your professionalism and help promote your online empire that little bit further.

7. Fair Play

If you sell handmade items such as ornaments, jewellery or clothing, craft fairs can be a great avenue to meet new customers and spread the word. Sponsor local events to get a listing on their website and perhaps a card and freebie in any goodie bags.

8. Encourage Repeat Business

Orders you mail out to customers should act as a promotional pack. Always include a business card and preferably a coupon to get repeat business.

9. Get The Word Out

Word of mouth is one of the key areas for promotion. Gently request your customers to review their purchases on sites such as Yelp and Google Local to help other buyers find what they’re looking for at your store. Send site listings to the major directories such as those mentioned above.

10. Give It Away

Consider hosting competitions and giveaways of free items as a way to build interest. You can create a huge buzz by promoting your giveaway on Facebook or Twitter. Remember to invite friends and include a sharing option to widen your audience and get the crowds all fired up!

Example of FIJI Water using Facebook to host a competition for chances to win extra merchandise.

These are just a few of the many ways you can market your online store with out the need for splashing the cash. Remember, whatever you do, nothing will happen unless you let people know you’re there!