5 Mistakes to Avoid When Starting Your eCommerce Store

At Webtopia we have seen behind the scenes of some of the best and most challenging eComm brands. We have noticed some common pitfalls that can hinder your growth in the early stages. To set yourself up for success, here are five things we think you should avoid when starting an eCommerce store.

1. Don't Hire a Media-buying Agency If You're Still Spending Under £5k a Month

Hiring the right help at the right time is crucial. However, it's essential to be mindful of your budget, and also to make sure you have enough experience of the channel from having run it yourself to be able to hire a great team. While agencies can offer valuable expertise, they might not be cost-effective for early-stage businesses with limited resources. Investing in an agency at an early stage could strain your finances and lead to extra stress, that could instead be channeled into figuring out what advertising strategies work best for you. It's crucial to grow your revenue first before considering such a risky investment.

2. Don’t Cut Corners on Branding and Photography

Your brand's image is everything in the eCommerce world. Cutting corners on branding and product photography can significantly impact your store's perception and trustworthiness. Investing in professional branding and high-quality product images can make a substantial difference in how customers perceive your products and brand. You don’t have to hire a Vogue photographer, but remember, first impressions are critical, and strong branding and appealing visuals can help you stand out in a crowded market.

3. Don't Launch Ads Without Setting Up Email Flows First

Email marketing is a powerful tool for engaging and retaining customers. Before you launch any advertising campaigns, it's crucial to set up effective email flows to capture leads and nurture relationships with potential customers. Building a strong email list and establishing personalized email flows can significantly boost your conversion rates and customer retention, maximizing the ROI of your advertising efforts.

4. Don’t Expect More Than a 1-2X ROAS in the First Three Months

Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a successful eCommerce business. It's essential to set realistic expectations for your Return on Ad Spend (ROAS) in the early stages. While aiming for a high ROAS is important, it's vital to understand that building a customer base and establishing brand awareness takes time and patience. Focus on building a solid foundation and refining your strategies to achieve sustainable growth in the long run.

5. Don't Expect Your Products to Sell Right Away

While confidence in your products is essential, expecting instant success can lead to disappointment and frustration. Generating sales takes time, effort, and a deep understanding of your target audience's needs and preferences. Focus on building a strong marketing and sales strategy, refining your product offerings, and actively engaging with your audience to create a loyal customer base over time.

That’sa wrap! Starting an eCommerce store requires careful planning and strategic decision-making. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can set yourself up for sustainable growth and long-term success in the competitive world of eCommerce.

Remember, patience, perseverance, and a customer-centric approach are key to achieving your eCommerce goals and building a thriving online business.

Don’t forget, our team are here to help accelerate your eCommerce business with Facebook, Google, TikTok and Pinterest ads and Klaviyo email marketing. 

Let’s chat about your business and goals - email us on hello@webtopia.co