I Take More Orders on the Telephone Than Through My Online Store

Your website has been live for quite a while and you see a steady stream of orders each day. However, these orders only make up around 25% of your total order profile. This tells you one thing…your web store is NOT working and is COSTING YOU MONEY each and every day!

Owning an online store is meant to improve your business cost effectiveness, aid productivity and ultimately increase your profit margins. But of you have to take time to process orders manually over the telephone, your margins are dropping like a stone.

An online store is a massive aid to business and margin levels if it is operationally viable.

I often get asked, ‘why do I still take more orders over the telephone than via my store?’

There are several answers to this question that could include;

· Your product has a niche requirement that needs more explanation

· Is the product going to meet my exact needs

· I don’t feel safe ordering online

· Your ordering system is complicated

· I need to know the total cost of my order before I buy

· When can I expect delivery of my order

· Will it do the job I want it to…and so on

Have you spotted anything yet? There may be several answers above, but there is only ONE answer that springs out to the online stores owner

My website is not working as I expect it to.

All of the answers above can be addressed ONLINE using your own store. There is not one reason that cannot be answered online. Let me show you what I mean using the examples above…

Your product needs more explanation – improve your product description and image gallery.

Is the product going to meet my needs – improve your product specification details.

I do not feel safe ordering online – Ensure you have a secure area for orders and payment, a strong privacy policy and TELL YOUR CUSTOMERS ABOUT THEM

Your ordering system is complicated – Streamline your order process!

When will I get my order – Clearly display your shipping terms and delivery lead times AND MAKE IT EASY TO FIND!

Will it do the job I want – As before, ensure your product details are comprehensive.

You see my point?

In addition to this, to ensure your website performs as well as you (and your investment) expect. Cast an eye over your online stores design, is it easy to use, can you find everything you would look for without having to think too much?

Is your internal search robust? Can they ask me a question without feeling the need to call me?

When you decide to sell online via a store, there is one simple rule that NEVER FAILS to help make it a success regardless of the marketplace you are in…

That rule is… DO NOT MAKE YOUR CUSTOMERS THINK!

If the answer is NOT on your website, they will find an online store that DOES have all the answers.