PROSPECTS AND REPEAT customers are going to check you out online before visiting, so take control of what they’re seeing! You only get to make one first impression. Here are some aspects of your website to consider.
Appearance
Your website needs to look good. Squarespace, Wix, WordPress, and others can help you build a beautiful, functional site, easily and inexpensively.
Email
Set up your store email address to match your website. Google Apps can help with that. It lends an air of professionalism and credibility to see wendy@thejewelrystore.com instead of wendyjewelrystore@yahoo.com.
Functionality
In addition to looking sharp and reflecting your brand, your website should contain useful, clear, searchable information for your customers. Keep your inventory up to date on your website so that people can find what they want and then come in and see those specific pieces.
Reaching You
Set up multiple ways for a website visitor to get in touch with you and be sure to monitor and respond as quickly as possible.
Chat Software, Like JivoChat
Many younger customers don’t want to pick up the phone, so let them communicate with you in the style that feels comfortable to them.
A Built-In Form, Like Google Forms or Typeform
Collect the person’s name, email, and phone number, find out how they’d prefer to receive a reply (a simple drop-down will do), and give them a space to ask a question.
An Appointment Scheduler, Like Calendly
You can also set up the form to gather information about what they’re looking for so that you’re prepared when they walk in the door.
Your Contact Info
Make it easy to find your phone number and email in case someone wants to use that!
In terms of your overall Internet presence, there are many easy ways to manage what people see when they look you up. One is to set up your free business profile on Google. It’s one of the first things people will see, and it will literally put you on the (Google) map.
Second, generate and showcase positive reviews. Build your reputation by reaching out to your customers and asking them to share their happy experiences on Google, Yelp, and Facebook. Say, “Your 5-star review would mean so much to us, and if for some reason you don’t feel you can give five stars, please let us know directly so that we can make things right.” Then provide your email address or a form. Nobody is perfect all the time, so use this valuable opportunity to show your vulnerability and gather constructive feedback to make improvements.