http://www.odeo.com/channels/2118461-The-eCommerce-Minute-Podcasts no Got a minute? Listen every workday as Practical eCommerce offers a 60-second tip to improve your ecommerce business. Got a minute? Listen every workday as Practical eCommerce offers a 60-second tip to improve your ecommerce business. Got a minute? Listen every workday as Practical eCommerce offers a 60-second tip to improve your ecommerce business. en 40 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:12:11 -0800 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:12:11 -0800 tips, practical ecommerce, ecommerce, tutorials, ecommerce minute Technology tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25442054-Detailed-Images-Appeal-to-Sophisticated-Shoppers As the Internet matures so does the sophistication of online shoppers. Studies indicate that today’s shoppers expect retailers to provide not only textual product information, but also detailed, zoomable images, videos, and alternate product views. A superior customer experience is what separates the best-of-breed retailers from the rest of the pack. As the Internet matures so does the sophistication of online shoppers. Studies indicate that today’s shoppers expect retailers to provide not only textual product information, but also detailed, zoomable images, videos, and alternate product views. A superior customer experience is what separates the best-of-breed retailers from the rest of the pack. As the Internet matures so does the sophistication of online shoppers. Studies indicate that today’s shoppers expect retailers to provide not only textual product information, but also detailed, zoomable images, videos, and alternate product views. A superior customer experience is what separates the best-of-breed retailers from the rest of the pack. tag:odeo.com,2009-11-12,25442054 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:12:11 -0800 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25437017-Define-Your-Business-Objectives Before you start making important decisions about your online store, stop and consider ecommerce as an all-encompassing marketing discipline from the outset. Clearly define your business objectives, make them achievable and measurable. Once this has been defined you can then make intelligent decisions and select appropriate partners to assist you. Before you start making important decisions about your online store, stop and consider ecommerce as an all-encompassing marketing discipline from the outset. Clearly define your business objectives, make them achievable and measurable. Once this has been defined you can then make intelligent decisions and select appropriate partners to assist you. Before you start making important decisions about your online store, stop and consider ecommerce as an all-encompassing marketing discipline from the outset. Clearly define your business objectives, make them achievable and measurable. Once this has been defined you can then make intelligent decisions and select appropriate partners to assist you. tag:odeo.com,2009-11-11,25437017 Wed, 11 Nov 2009 14:55:21 -0800 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25431631-Create-a-FAQ-Page Create a FAQ [frequently asked questions] page that educates customers about your products or services in a concise matter. It should cover a wide range of questions and answers to help customers make more informed decisions on purchases. Customers will be more comfortable shopping with your company and have a better understanding of the way you operate, creating a foundation for repeat customers and referrals. Create a FAQ [frequently asked questions] page that educates customers about your products or services in a concise matter. It should cover a wide range of questions and answers to help customers make more informed decisions on purchases. Customers will be more comfortable shopping with your company and have a better understanding of the way you operate, creating a foundation for repeat customers and referrals. Create a FAQ [frequently asked questions] page that educates customers about your products or services in a concise matter. It should cover a wide range of questions and answers to help customers make more informed decisions on purchases. Customers will be more comfortable shopping with your company and have a better understanding of the way you operate, creating a foundation for repeat customers and referrals. tag:odeo.com,2009-11-10,25431631 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:43:22 -0800 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25426089-Use-Ning-to-Target-Customers Ning is a web service that hosts thousands of social networks and it is a great place to target niche customer segments. For example, if you are selling embroidered pet collars, the best place to promote your products would be a Ning network for dog lovers. Find out the networks your customers are likely to belong to and connect with them on Ning. Ning is a web service that hosts thousands of social networks and it is a great place to target niche customer segments. For example, if you are selling embroidered pet collars, the best place to promote your products would be a Ning network for dog lovers. Find out the networks your customers are likely to belong to and connect with them on Ning. Ning is a web service that hosts thousands of social networks and it is a great place to target niche customer segments. For example, if you are selling embroidered pet collars, the best place to promote your products would be a Ning network for dog lovers. Find out the networks your customers are likely to belong to and connect with them on Ning. tag:odeo.com,2009-11-09,25426089 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 14:31:54 -0800 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25412482-Help-Non-Profits-and-They-Help-You Things are tight for everyone right now, including non-profits. For a donation, many local groups, especially team sports, will help you with time-consuming projects such as taking inventory, washing windows, or cleaning company vehicles. If they don’t ask, you can suggest it. It is a great solution for both organizations because everyone wins. Things are tight for everyone right now, including non-profits. For a donation, many local groups, especially team sports, will help you with time-consuming projects such as taking inventory, washing windows, or cleaning company vehicles. If they don’t ask, you can suggest it. It is a great solution for both organizations because everyone wins. Things are tight for everyone right now, including non-profits. For a donation, many local groups, especially team sports, will help you with time-consuming projects such as taking inventory, washing windows, or cleaning company vehicles. If they don’t ask, you can suggest it. It is a great solution for both organizations because everyone wins. tag:odeo.com,2009-11-06,25412482 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:26:19 -0800 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25406810-Include-Expert-Testimonials Customer testimonials and user-generated product reviews are great to provide reassurance for your online store. But, also try to go one step further by posting any ‘expert’ testimonials or product reviews. An example might be, ‘The head groundsman at Wimbledon recommends this lawn mower…’ and include actual quotes from the expert. Customer testimonials and user-generated product reviews are great to provide reassurance for your online store. But, also try to go one step further by posting any ‘expert’ testimonials or product reviews. An example might be, ‘The head groundsman at Wimbledon recommends this lawn mower…’ and include actual quotes from the expert. Customer testimonials and user-generated product reviews are great to provide reassurance for your online store. But, also try to go one step further by posting any ‘expert’ testimonials or product reviews. An example might be, ‘The head groundsman at Wimbledon recommends this lawn mower…’ and include actual quotes from the expert. tag:odeo.com,2009-11-05,25406810 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 14:28:16 -0800 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25399797-Keep-Your-Message-Above-the-Fold When you are trying to get your message out, make sure your most important point is prominently featured. Get to the point and keep it above the fold, or above the middle of the page. Email or newsletter sign ups, special offers, reviews, and navigation are all better served above the fold where a visitor is more likely to engage them. When you are trying to get your message out, make sure your most important point is prominently featured. Get to the point and keep it above the fold, or above the middle of the page. Email or newsletter sign ups, special offers, reviews, and navigation are all better served above the fold where a visitor is more likely to engage them. When you are trying to get your message out, make sure your most important point is prominently featured. Get to the point and keep it above the fold, or above the middle of the page. Email or newsletter sign ups, special offers, reviews, and navigation are all better served above the fold where a visitor is more likely to engage them. tag:odeo.com,2009-11-04,25399797 Wed, 04 Nov 2009 14:41:00 -0800 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25399798-Localize-Site-Content Your ecommerce site should be as localized as your physical stores. Some retailers have hundreds of localized, micro-branded sites with content that resonates with local consumers. You can also use IP mapping to localize prices, offers and product selection. When done correctly, it can be a powerful sales tool for your online and local stores. Your ecommerce site should be as localized as your physical stores. Some retailers have hundreds of localized, micro-branded sites with content that resonates with local consumers. You can also use IP mapping to localize prices, offers and product selection. When done correctly, it can be a powerful sales tool for your online and local stores. Your ecommerce site should be as localized as your physical stores. Some retailers have hundreds of localized, micro-branded sites with content that resonates with local consumers. You can also use IP mapping to localize prices, offers and product selection. When done correctly, it can be a powerful sales tool for your online and local stores. tag:odeo.com,2009-11-03,25399798 Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:54:54 -0800 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25399799-Social-Media-Listening Gary Vaynerchuk, founder of winelibrary.com and a social media expert says, "The role of Social Media Director should be called 'Chief Listener' because it's just as important to be listening to what people are saying about your brand and reacting as it is to pump out good content. When there is an ongoing conversation about your brand or product or service, good or bad, and you aren't a part of that conversation, that's a huge blown opportunity. Gary Vaynerchuk, founder of winelibrary.com and a social media expert says, "The role of Social Media Director should be called 'Chief Listener' because it's just as important to be listening to what people are saying about your brand and reacting as it is to pump out good content. When there is an ongoing conversation about your brand or product or service, good or bad, and you aren't a part of that conversation, that's a huge blown opportunity. Gary Vaynerchuk, founder of winelibrary.com and a social media expert says, "The role of Social Media Director should be called 'Chief Listener' because it's just as important to be listening to what people are saying about your brand and reacting as it is to pump out good content. When there is an ongoing conversation about your brand or product or service, good or bad, and you aren't a part of that conversation, that's a huge blown opportunity. tag:odeo.com,2009-11-02,25399799 Mon, 02 Nov 2009 14:35:03 -0800 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25399800-Good-Read-High-Output-Management Scott Dunlap, the founder of ecommerce technology developer NearbyNow, recently recommended the book 'High Output Management' by Andy Grove. Dunlap said, "'High Output Management' is an awesome primer on how to focus a business on the right strategic goals. It’s also a great way to get a new management team on the same page. I use this book so much I have to buy additional copies every couple of years.” Scott Dunlap, the founder of ecommerce technology developer NearbyNow, recently recommended the book 'High Output Management' by Andy Grove. Dunlap said, "'High Output Management' is an awesome primer on how to focus a business on the right strategic goals. It’s also a great way to get a new management team on the same page. I use this book so much I have to buy additional copies every couple of years.” Scott Dunlap, the founder of ecommerce technology developer NearbyNow, recently recommended the book 'High Output Management' by Andy Grove. Dunlap said, "'High Output Management' is an awesome primer on how to focus a business on the right strategic goals. It’s also a great way to get a new management team on the same page. I use this book so much I have to buy additional copies every couple of years.” tag:odeo.com,2009-10-30,25399800 Fri, 30 Oct 2009 13:52:59 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25399801-Magento-Adds-Widgets Magento ecommerce platform has added a new widget feature. Magento already has dozens of desirable features like multiple product images, image pan and zoom, wishlists, customer reviews, email marketing, cross-selling, multi-store support, and live customer activity tracking. The new widget feature lets merchants add dynamic content, including all sorts of merchandising features, without having to add any programming code. Magento ecommerce platform has added a new widget feature. Magento already has dozens of desirable features like multiple product images, image pan and zoom, wishlists, customer reviews, email marketing, cross-selling, multi-store support, and live customer activity tracking. The new widget feature lets merchants add dynamic content, including all sorts of merchandising features, without having to add any programming code. Magento ecommerce platform has added a new widget feature. Magento already has dozens of desirable features like multiple product images, image pan and zoom, wishlists, customer reviews, email marketing, cross-selling, multi-store support, and live customer activity tracking. The new widget feature lets merchants add dynamic content, including all sorts of merchandising features, without having to add any programming code. tag:odeo.com,2009-10-29,25399801 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:01:59 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25399802-ProStores-Adds-New-Features ProStores ecommerce platform has added five primary enhancements to its cart. They are: automated product feeds to theFind.com and NexTag comparison-shopping engines, improved discount functionality, the ability to upload images to help consumers to learn more about a product, a new “copy product” feature to create new products from an existing product catalog, and improvements to the checkout function. ProStores ecommerce platform has added five primary enhancements to its cart. They are: automated product feeds to theFind.com and NexTag comparison-shopping engines, improved discount functionality, the ability to upload images to help consumers to learn more about a product, a new “copy product” feature to create new products from an existing product catalog, and improvements to the checkout function. ProStores ecommerce platform has added five primary enhancements to its cart. They are: automated product feeds to theFind.com and NexTag comparison-shopping engines, improved discount functionality, the ability to upload images to help consumers to learn more about a product, a new “copy product” feature to create new products from an existing product catalog, and improvements to the checkout function. tag:odeo.com,2009-10-28,25399802 Wed, 28 Oct 2009 13:53:24 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25399803-Recommended-Reading-The-E-Myth Ben Chestnut of MailChimp email marketing recently recommended the book 'The E-Myth' by Michael Gerber. Chestnut said, "This book should be required reading for anybody thinking about starting a business. I think it's probably the best business book a new entrepreneur could ever read. It will set your paradigms in the proper place: work harder at working smarter." Ben Chestnut of MailChimp email marketing recently recommended the book 'The E-Myth' by Michael Gerber. Chestnut said, "This book should be required reading for anybody thinking about starting a business. I think it's probably the best business book a new entrepreneur could ever read. It will set your paradigms in the proper place: work harder at working smarter." Ben Chestnut of MailChimp email marketing recently recommended the book 'The E-Myth' by Michael Gerber. Chestnut said, "This book should be required reading for anybody thinking about starting a business. I think it's probably the best business book a new entrepreneur could ever read. It will set your paradigms in the proper place: work harder at working smarter." tag:odeo.com,2009-10-27,25399803 Tue, 27 Oct 2009 13:32:04 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25376539-Product-reviews Don't be afraid to ask your customers for product reviews. Studies show that even negative product reviews increase conversions. To encourage customers to leave feedback, consider sending a follow up email after the sale asking for a review. Advertise any and all ways you accept feedback. Most importantly, let your customers know that you are happy to take the bad feedback with the good. If you start with a passionate and knowledgeable customer base, you will end up with a very solid online store. Don't be afraid to ask your customers for product reviews. Studies show that even negative product reviews increase conversions. To encourage customers to leave feedback, consider sending a follow up email after the sale asking for a review. Advertise any and all ways you accept feedback. Most importantly, let your customers know that you are happy to take the bad feedback with the good. If you start with a passionate and knowledgeable customer base, you will end up with a very solid online store. Don't be afraid to ask your customers for product reviews. Studies show that even negative product reviews increase conversions. To encourage customers to leave feedback, consider sending a follow up email after the sale asking for a review. Advertise any and all ways you accept feedback. Most importantly, let your customers know that you are happy to take the bad feedback with the good. If you start with a passionate and knowledgeable customer base, you will end up with a very solid online store. tag:odeo.com,2009-10-26,25376539 Mon, 26 Oct 2009 13:32:33 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25356437-The-Persuasion-Path When it comes to ecommerce and selling online, there is nothing more important than understanding the mind of an online shopper. Knowing how online shoppers think allows you to craft a web experience that matches the expectations of the shopper. Managing the expectations of a shopper, with a deliberate effort to generate a sale, as they flow through the Purchase Funnel is known as a Persuasion Path. Start thinking like your customers, because identifying, creating and managing these pathways are vital to ecommerce success. When it comes to ecommerce and selling online, there is nothing more important than understanding the mind of an online shopper. Knowing how online shoppers think allows you to craft a web experience that matches the expectations of the shopper. Managing the expectations of a shopper, with a deliberate effort to generate a sale, as they flow through the Purchase Funnel is known as a Persuasion Path. Start thinking like your customers, because identifying, creating and managing these pathways are vital to ecommerce success. When it comes to ecommerce and selling online, there is nothing more important than understanding the mind of an online shopper. Knowing how online shoppers think allows you to craft a web experience that matches the expectations of the shopper. Managing the expectations of a shopper, with a deliberate effort to generate a sale, as they flow through the Purchase Funnel is known as a Persuasion Path. Start thinking like your customers, because identifying, creating and managing these pathways are vital to ecommerce success. tag:odeo.com,2009-10-23,25356437 Fri, 23 Oct 2009 13:28:16 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25346683-Virtual-Mixers You've likely heard discussions about the perceived irrelevance of Twitter and Facebook by business owners who wouldn't miss an opportunity to attend a chamber of commerce mixer or industry conference. But, savvy business owners can also be ambassadors of their company at a virtual mixer. In the course of these online conversations merchants can drop their "virtual business card" in the form of a URL, Twitter or Facebook account, or email. That makes virtual mixers just one more way to reach the new age of consumers.. You've likely heard discussions about the perceived irrelevance of Twitter and Facebook by business owners who wouldn't miss an opportunity to attend a chamber of commerce mixer or industry conference. But, savvy business owners can also be ambassadors of their company at a virtual mixer. In the course of these online conversations merchants can drop their "virtual business card" in the form of a URL, Twitter or Facebook account, or email. That makes virtual mixers just one more way to reach the new age of consumers.. You've likely heard discussions about the perceived irrelevance of Twitter and Facebook by business owners who wouldn't miss an opportunity to attend a chamber of commerce mixer or industry conference. But, savvy business owners can also be ambassadors of their company at a virtual mixer. In the course of these online conversations merchants can drop their "virtual business card" in the form of a URL, Twitter or Facebook account, or email. That makes virtual mixers just one more way to reach the new age of consumers.. tag:odeo.com,2009-10-22,25346683 Thu, 22 Oct 2009 13:42:44 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25323434-Sourcing-China-made-Products In the past, small businesses were left out of importing products from China because of the complexity of an outdated world trading system. Online platforms that streamline China-sourcing have helped level the playing field between the smallest businesses and the largest. The technologies are now well developed and the markets are mature. Buying direct from manufacturers overseas is now safe, efficient, and can be even easier than ordering from a local distributor. In the past, small businesses were left out of importing products from China because of the complexity of an outdated world trading system. Online platforms that streamline China-sourcing have helped level the playing field between the smallest businesses and the largest. The technologies are now well developed and the markets are mature. Buying direct from manufacturers overseas is now safe, efficient, and can be even easier than ordering from a local distributor. In the past, small businesses were left out of importing products from China because of the complexity of an outdated world trading system. Online platforms that streamline China-sourcing have helped level the playing field between the smallest businesses and the largest. The technologies are now well developed and the markets are mature. Buying direct from manufacturers overseas is now safe, efficient, and can be even easier than ordering from a local distributor. tag:odeo.com,2009-10-21,25323434 Wed, 21 Oct 2009 13:36:56 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25317281-Become-A-Social-Media-Director Consumers are no longer passive. They share information about products and services via email, blogging, and now Facebook and Twitter, among other social networking sites. In order to evolve with your customers, you have to leave the traditional public relations mindset behind. You don't release a statement. You create a dialogue. You don't just post, you follow conversations. Listening and interacting are the keys. The biggest change is not the technology itself but the expectation of the evolved consumer. Consumers are no longer passive. They share information about products and services via email, blogging, and now Facebook and Twitter, among other social networking sites. In order to evolve with your customers, you have to leave the traditional public relations mindset behind. You don't release a statement. You create a dialogue. You don't just post, you follow conversations. Listening and interacting are the keys. The biggest change is not the technology itself but the expectation of the evolved consumer. Consumers are no longer passive. They share information about products and services via email, blogging, and now Facebook and Twitter, among other social networking sites. In order to evolve with your customers, you have to leave the traditional public relations mindset behind. You don't release a statement. You create a dialogue. You don't just post, you follow conversations. Listening and interacting are the keys. The biggest change is not the technology itself but the expectation of the evolved consumer. tag:odeo.com,2009-10-20,25317281 Tue, 20 Oct 2009 13:41:56 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25311874-A-Closer-Look-at-Blogging Recently announced changes to the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising" are prompting merchants to take a closer look at how they interact with bloggers and reviewers. You can keep your business out of legal trouble by encouraging bloggers you work with to write about their personal experiences rather than overly broad claims about your products. Recently announced changes to the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising" are prompting merchants to take a closer look at how they interact with bloggers and reviewers. You can keep your business out of legal trouble by encouraging bloggers you work with to write about their personal experiences rather than overly broad claims about your products. Recently announced changes to the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising" are prompting merchants to take a closer look at how they interact with bloggers and reviewers. You can keep your business out of legal trouble by encouraging bloggers you work with to write about their personal experiences rather than overly broad claims about your products. tag:odeo.com,2009-10-19,25311874 Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:30:17 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25295841-Email-Do-They-Know-You You have to make sure that when you’re sending your email out to people that you can answer two questions in the affirmative: Does the recipient know you and does the recipient care? If recipients don’t know you and they don’t care, then they are people you shouldn’t be sending to. If they do know you and they don’t care, then you’ve got to work on your email content. You have to make sure that when you’re sending your email out to people that you can answer two questions in the affirmative: Does the recipient know you and does the recipient care? If recipients don’t know you and they don’t care, then they are people you shouldn’t be sending to. If they do know you and they don’t care, then you’ve got to work on your email content. You have to make sure that when you’re sending your email out to people that you can answer two questions in the affirmative: Does the recipient know you and does the recipient care? If recipients don’t know you and they don’t care, then they are people you shouldn’t be sending to. If they do know you and they don’t care, then you’ve got to work on your email content. tag:odeo.com,2009-10-16,25295841 Fri, 16 Oct 2009 13:33:01 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25289257-Humanize-Your-Store Compete with the big-box stores by emphasizing the human touch that you provide. Build relationships with your customers after your initial product sale with follow-up emails, requests for reviews, and email marketing with specials. Pull out all the stops. Sell yourself with your photo and your story on your website. People want to do business with someone they can trust. If you are a sincere, helpful, and trustworthy person, don't be shy about sharing that with the world, or at least with your customers. Compete with the big-box stores by emphasizing the human touch that you provide. Build relationships with your customers after your initial product sale with follow-up emails, requests for reviews, and email marketing with specials. Pull out all the stops. Sell yourself with your photo and your story on your website. People want to do business with someone they can trust. If you are a sincere, helpful, and trustworthy person, don't be shy about sharing that with the world, or at least with your customers. Compete with the big-box stores by emphasizing the human touch that you provide. Build relationships with your customers after your initial product sale with follow-up emails, requests for reviews, and email marketing with specials. Pull out all the stops. Sell yourself with your photo and your story on your website. People want to do business with someone they can trust. If you are a sincere, helpful, and trustworthy person, don't be shy about sharing that with the world, or at least with your customers. tag:odeo.com,2009-10-15,25289257 Thu, 15 Oct 2009 13:28:24 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25283545-About-Niche-Marketing A niche product line is a very good thing. But, if what you are selling is available on Amazon, then you should ask yourself what you can offer as a value-add. Things such as service, information, guarantees, or possibly even some entertainment can set your store apart from the big-box stores. And, if your product line naturally generates repeat orders or if you can creatively build your business to encourage repeat orders, you will be doing yourself a big favor. A niche product line is a very good thing. But, if what you are selling is available on Amazon, then you should ask yourself what you can offer as a value-add. Things such as service, information, guarantees, or possibly even some entertainment can set your store apart from the big-box stores. And, if your product line naturally generates repeat orders or if you can creatively build your business to encourage repeat orders, you will be doing yourself a big favor. A niche product line is a very good thing. But, if what you are selling is available on Amazon, then you should ask yourself what you can offer as a value-add. Things such as service, information, guarantees, or possibly even some entertainment can set your store apart from the big-box stores. And, if your product line naturally generates repeat orders or if you can creatively build your business to encourage repeat orders, you will be doing yourself a big favor. tag:odeo.com,2009-10-14,25283545 Wed, 14 Oct 2009 13:29:22 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25278054-Use-New-Technology You don't need to be a tech "whiz" to make your business work. But you do need to embrace technology. In a rapidly changed online world, it is hard to flourish by standing still. Whether it is your site's search engine optimization, comparison shopping feeds, or on-site merchandising features, you need to identify ways to keep moving forward. Many elements like social bookmarking widgets and video are free and easy to add to your website. You don't need to be a tech "whiz" to make your business work. But you do need to embrace technology. In a rapidly changed online world, it is hard to flourish by standing still. Whether it is your site's search engine optimization, comparison shopping feeds, or on-site merchandising features, you need to identify ways to keep moving forward. Many elements like social bookmarking widgets and video are free and easy to add to your website. You don't need to be a tech "whiz" to make your business work. But you do need to embrace technology. In a rapidly changed online world, it is hard to flourish by standing still. Whether it is your site's search engine optimization, comparison shopping feeds, or on-site merchandising features, you need to identify ways to keep moving forward. Many elements like social bookmarking widgets and video are free and easy to add to your website. tag:odeo.com,2009-10-13,25278054 Tue, 13 Oct 2009 13:46:54 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25272560-Building-a-Social-Media-Plan The social aspect of the web is flourishing. Each business owner needs to carefully develop a social media plan. If you have time to devote to a blog, Facebook, or Twitter, it will benefit you to explore all available channels. But if your time is limited, focus on taking small steps to develop your website as a social hub. Build strong bonds with your customers by asking for their feedback, giving them incentives to refer others, and genuinely listening to what they say. The social aspect of the web is flourishing. Each business owner needs to carefully develop a social media plan. If you have time to devote to a blog, Facebook, or Twitter, it will benefit you to explore all available channels. But if your time is limited, focus on taking small steps to develop your website as a social hub. Build strong bonds with your customers by asking for their feedback, giving them incentives to refer others, and genuinely listening to what they say. The social aspect of the web is flourishing. Each business owner needs to carefully develop a social media plan. If you have time to devote to a blog, Facebook, or Twitter, it will benefit you to explore all available channels. But if your time is limited, focus on taking small steps to develop your website as a social hub. Build strong bonds with your customers by asking for their feedback, giving them incentives to refer others, and genuinely listening to what they say. tag:odeo.com,2009-10-12,25272560 Mon, 12 Oct 2009 13:36:23 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25258866-Keep-Your-Promises-to-Earn-Trust Earning a customer's trust is the best way to get a lifelong partner. One simple way to build consumer confidence is by keeping your promises. Be honest with your customers and never promise anything that cannot be accomplished. And, once you make a promise, be sure to keep it. Earning a customer's trust is the best way to get a lifelong partner. One simple way to build consumer confidence is by keeping your promises. Be honest with your customers and never promise anything that cannot be accomplished. And, once you make a promise, be sure to keep it. Earning a customer's trust is the best way to get a lifelong partner. One simple way to build consumer confidence is by keeping your promises. Be honest with your customers and never promise anything that cannot be accomplished. And, once you make a promise, be sure to keep it. tag:odeo.com,2009-10-09,25258866 Fri, 09 Oct 2009 13:32:04 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25254606-Use-Facebook-to-Promote-Your-Store A Facebook page is a great way to promote your online store. Not only does it give you customized presence and branding, it also gives your customers a channel to interact with you. And, it provides great SEO value, too. Set up a Facebook page now and spread the word among your friends and customers. It's free and only takes a few moments to set up. A Facebook page is a great way to promote your online store. Not only does it give you customized presence and branding, it also gives your customers a channel to interact with you. And, it provides great SEO value, too. Set up a Facebook page now and spread the word among your friends and customers. It's free and only takes a few moments to set up. A Facebook page is a great way to promote your online store. Not only does it give you customized presence and branding, it also gives your customers a channel to interact with you. And, it provides great SEO value, too. Set up a Facebook page now and spread the word among your friends and customers. It's free and only takes a few moments to set up. tag:odeo.com,2009-10-08,25254606 Thu, 08 Oct 2009 14:10:29 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25247248-Step-Up-Security-Accreditation Visible security certifications are an important component to developing customer's trust in your company. To help improve consumer confidence in your site, go one step further than SSL or 'McAfee Hacker Safe' certifications. Try to get industry-endorsed accreditations such as the 'Good Web Shopping Guide' or 'Governed by the Internet Shopping Code of Practice'. Visible security certifications are an important component to developing customer's trust in your company. To help improve consumer confidence in your site, go one step further than SSL or 'McAfee Hacker Safe' certifications. Try to get industry-endorsed accreditations such as the 'Good Web Shopping Guide' or 'Governed by the Internet Shopping Code of Practice'. Visible security certifications are an important component to developing customer's trust in your company. To help improve consumer confidence in your site, go one step further than SSL or 'McAfee Hacker Safe' certifications. Try to get industry-endorsed accreditations such as the 'Good Web Shopping Guide' or 'Governed by the Internet Shopping Code of Practice'. tag:odeo.com,2009-10-07,25247248 Wed, 07 Oct 2009 13:30:56 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25241135-Hire-Interns-With-Advanced-Skills If you are looking for some extra help with your online store, try to hire local high school and college student’s for jobs whenever possible, including paid internships. You will be amazed at the talent you can find, such as advanced skills in programming, photography, blogging and more. When you hire students you can save on employee salaries, and the interns can gain necessary experience in a practical environment. If you are looking for some extra help with your online store, try to hire local high school and college student’s for jobs whenever possible, including paid internships. You will be amazed at the talent you can find, such as advanced skills in programming, photography, blogging and more. When you hire students you can save on employee salaries, and the interns can gain necessary experience in a practical environment. If you are looking for some extra help with your online store, try to hire local high school and college student’s for jobs whenever possible, including paid internships. You will be amazed at the talent you can find, such as advanced skills in programming, photography, blogging and more. When you hire students you can save on employee salaries, and the interns can gain necessary experience in a practical environment. tag:odeo.com,2009-10-06,25241135 Tue, 06 Oct 2009 13:39:07 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25236708-Deploy-Decision-making-Widgets When selling big ticket items or products that require consumer research, deploy merchandising widgets to aid in the decision-making process. Customers who interact with online merchandising widgets will generally view more products per session and are more likely to add a product to their shopping cart, increasing conversions, repeat visits and customer satisfaction. Give your site a boost with a merchandising widget for each product. When selling big ticket items or products that require consumer research, deploy merchandising widgets to aid in the decision-making process. Customers who interact with online merchandising widgets will generally view more products per session and are more likely to add a product to their shopping cart, increasing conversions, repeat visits and customer satisfaction. Give your site a boost with a merchandising widget for each product. When selling big ticket items or products that require consumer research, deploy merchandising widgets to aid in the decision-making process. Customers who interact with online merchandising widgets will generally view more products per session and are more likely to add a product to their shopping cart, increasing conversions, repeat visits and customer satisfaction. Give your site a boost with a merchandising widget for each product. tag:odeo.com,2009-10-05,25236708 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 15:33:46 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25221206-Don-t-Ask-For-Too-Much-Information Ask your customers only for the information you absolutely need. If you are selling digital products, do you need the customer's full address? What about the phone number? Most customers dislike giving their precious personal information away until they get to know your company better. It is best to keep personal inquiries to a minimum until you have established a closer relationship with customers. Ask your customers only for the information you absolutely need. If you are selling digital products, do you need the customer's full address? What about the phone number? Most customers dislike giving their precious personal information away until they get to know your company better. It is best to keep personal inquiries to a minimum until you have established a closer relationship with customers. Ask your customers only for the information you absolutely need. If you are selling digital products, do you need the customer's full address? What about the phone number? Most customers dislike giving their precious personal information away until they get to know your company better. It is best to keep personal inquiries to a minimum until you have established a closer relationship with customers. tag:odeo.com,2009-10-02,25221206 Fri, 02 Oct 2009 13:25:49 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25217040-The-Power-of-Product-Reviews There is more power in product reviews than you might suspect. Product reviews written by customers can actually be used to motivate your team to do their best work. Instruct your employees to route satisfied customers to the most important online sites for leaving feedback, and give your people a bonus if a referred customer writes a review about your company there. That is just one more way to harness the power of product reviews. There is more power in product reviews than you might suspect. Product reviews written by customers can actually be used to motivate your team to do their best work. Instruct your employees to route satisfied customers to the most important online sites for leaving feedback, and give your people a bonus if a referred customer writes a review about your company there. That is just one more way to harness the power of product reviews. There is more power in product reviews than you might suspect. Product reviews written by customers can actually be used to motivate your team to do their best work. Instruct your employees to route satisfied customers to the most important online sites for leaving feedback, and give your people a bonus if a referred customer writes a review about your company there. That is just one more way to harness the power of product reviews. tag:odeo.com,2009-10-01,25217040 Thu, 01 Oct 2009 13:42:04 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25210643-Are-Multiple-Stores-Right-For-You If you operate an eCommerce business, at some point you’ve probably wondered if you should add another store to reach new markets or expand your product base. Multiple stores do offer better opportunities to segment and reach slightly different target markets. You can cross sell different products to the same customers. And, you can gain great leverage in your SEO efforts if you build your sites properly using separate domains and content. But, each individual business must decide if the risks and costs outweigh the benefits of adding multiple stores.  If you operate an eCommerce business, at some point you’ve probably wondered if you should add another store to reach new markets or expand your product base. Multiple stores do offer better opportunities to segment and reach slightly different target markets. You can cross sell different products to the same customers. And, you can gain great leverage in your SEO efforts if you build your sites properly using separate domains and content. But, each individual business must decide if the risks and costs outweigh the benefits of adding multiple stores.  If you operate an eCommerce business, at some point you’ve probably wondered if you should add another store to reach new markets or expand your product base. Multiple stores do offer better opportunities to segment and reach slightly different target markets. You can cross sell different products to the same customers. And, you can gain great leverage in your SEO efforts if you build your sites properly using separate domains and content. But, each individual business must decide if the risks and costs outweigh the benefits of adding multiple stores.  tag:odeo.com,2009-09-30,25210643 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 13:43:22 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25204934-Business-Advice-From-a-Cart-Developer Here is some business advice from Matt Stanigar, vice president CartGenie, "Focus on developing a niche for yourself instead of trying to be all things to all people. Our most successful customers are the ones who specialize and know their niche inside and out. They don’t necessarily have the flashy site, but they have great product selection, good content, great product photos, and very competitive pricing. They’re also good at developing community ties through a blog or by providing e-newsletters so that shoppers remember them." Here is some business advice from Matt Stanigar, vice president CartGenie, "Focus on developing a niche for yourself instead of trying to be all things to all people. Our most successful customers are the ones who specialize and know their niche inside and out. They don’t necessarily have the flashy site, but they have great product selection, good content, great product photos, and very competitive pricing. They’re also good at developing community ties through a blog or by providing e-newsletters so that shoppers remember them." Here is some business advice from Matt Stanigar, vice president CartGenie, "Focus on developing a niche for yourself instead of trying to be all things to all people. Our most successful customers are the ones who specialize and know their niche inside and out. They don’t necessarily have the flashy site, but they have great product selection, good content, great product photos, and very competitive pricing. They’re also good at developing community ties through a blog or by providing e-newsletters so that shoppers remember them." tag:odeo.com,2009-09-29,25204934 Tue, 29 Sep 2009 13:48:56 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25199889-Why-Use-Social-Media If you are wondering why your businesses should establish a strong presence on social media sites, here are five good reasons: It's a way to strengthen the relationship with your customer. It's searchable by Google and other engines. It's a useful feedback mechanism. It's a tool customer evangelists can use to spread positive word of mouth. It's a way to give customers and employees a sense of ownership of your company, products and services.  If you are wondering why your businesses should establish a strong presence on social media sites, here are five good reasons: It's a way to strengthen the relationship with your customer. It's searchable by Google and other engines. It's a useful feedback mechanism. It's a tool customer evangelists can use to spread positive word of mouth. It's a way to give customers and employees a sense of ownership of your company, products and services.  If you are wondering why your businesses should establish a strong presence on social media sites, here are five good reasons: It's a way to strengthen the relationship with your customer. It's searchable by Google and other engines. It's a useful feedback mechanism. It's a tool customer evangelists can use to spread positive word of mouth. It's a way to give customers and employees a sense of ownership of your company, products and services.  tag:odeo.com,2009-09-28,25199889 Mon, 28 Sep 2009 13:59:30 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25183910-Top-Reasons-For-Shopping-Cart-Abandonment Shopping cart abandonment affects most every ecommerce merchant A survey conducted by comScore, in which comScore attempted to determine why shoppers abandon their carts, even after they have chosen the item they presumably want to buy, shows the following top reasons for abandonment: High shipping charges: 46 percent Wanted to comparison shop: 37 percent Lack of money: 36 percent Wanted to look for a coupon: 27 percent Wanted to shop offline: 26 percent Couldn’t find preferred pay option: 24 percent Item was unavailable at checkout: 23 percent Couldn’t find customer support: 22 percent Concern about security of credit card data: 21 percent Shopping cart abandonment affects most every ecommerce merchant A survey conducted by comScore, in which comScore attempted to determine why shoppers abandon their carts, even after they have chosen the item they presumably want to buy, shows the following top reasons for abandonment: High shipping charges: 46 percent Wanted to comparison shop: 37 percent Lack of money: 36 percent Wanted to look for a coupon: 27 percent Wanted to shop offline: 26 percent Couldn’t find preferred pay option: 24 percent Item was unavailable at checkout: 23 percent Couldn’t find customer support: 22 percent Concern about security of credit card data: 21 percent Shopping cart abandonment affects most every ecommerce merchant A survey conducted by comScore, in which comScore attempted to determine why shoppers abandon their carts, even after they have chosen the item they presumably want to buy, shows the following top reasons for abandonment: High shipping charges: 46 percent Wanted to comparison shop: 37 percent Lack of money: 36 percent Wanted to look for a coupon: 27 percent Wanted to shop offline: 26 percent Couldn’t find preferred pay option: 24 percent Item was unavailable at checkout: 23 percent Couldn’t find customer support: 22 percent Concern about security of credit card data: 21 percent tag:odeo.com,2009-09-25,25183910 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 13:43:49 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25178488-Coupons-Help-Reduce-Cart-Abandonment It's a fact that coupons help to increase conversions and reduce cart abandons. Coupons and discounts are also a great way to get viral traffic and email buzz. Make your offer accessible and enticing, with strict deadlines. Also, make sure that discount details are clear, and that you have a separate page explaining in simple terms any qualifications or restrictions around the special. Try offering coupons and discounts and see if it helps to reduce shopping cart abandonment. It's a fact that coupons help to increase conversions and reduce cart abandons. Coupons and discounts are also a great way to get viral traffic and email buzz. Make your offer accessible and enticing, with strict deadlines. Also, make sure that discount details are clear, and that you have a separate page explaining in simple terms any qualifications or restrictions around the special. Try offering coupons and discounts and see if it helps to reduce shopping cart abandonment. It's a fact that coupons help to increase conversions and reduce cart abandons. Coupons and discounts are also a great way to get viral traffic and email buzz. Make your offer accessible and enticing, with strict deadlines. Also, make sure that discount details are clear, and that you have a separate page explaining in simple terms any qualifications or restrictions around the special. Try offering coupons and discounts and see if it helps to reduce shopping cart abandonment. tag:odeo.com,2009-09-24,25178488 Thu, 24 Sep 2009 13:43:47 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25171410-Payoneer-Helps-With-Cross-Border-Payments Working with affiliates in certain countries, such as Brazil, China and India, can be tricky simply because many individuals do not have bank accounts. This complicates the process of transferring money to them because they do not have a depository account in which to receive it. A new payment service called Payoneer empowers affiliate networks to issue their own, branded prepaid debit cards to pay affiliates. Branded cards can take some time to obtain, however once received, future payments can be loaded onto the card quickly. Working with affiliates in certain countries, such as Brazil, China and India, can be tricky simply because many individuals do not have bank accounts. This complicates the process of transferring money to them because they do not have a depository account in which to receive it. A new payment service called Payoneer empowers affiliate networks to issue their own, branded prepaid debit cards to pay affiliates. Branded cards can take some time to obtain, however once received, future payments can be loaded onto the card quickly. Working with affiliates in certain countries, such as Brazil, China and India, can be tricky simply because many individuals do not have bank accounts. This complicates the process of transferring money to them because they do not have a depository account in which to receive it. A new payment service called Payoneer empowers affiliate networks to issue their own, branded prepaid debit cards to pay affiliates. Branded cards can take some time to obtain, however once received, future payments can be loaded onto the card quickly. tag:odeo.com,2009-09-23,25171410 Wed, 23 Sep 2009 13:35:14 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25165799-Optimize-Your-Site-For-Bing Once you have provided good content for your human site visitors, there are at least three things you should do to pave the way for Bing's search algorithms. One: Have a good site map. There are some indications that Bing's search algorithms might be more dependent on site maps than Google's algorithms and search bots. Two: Use keywords in sub-domains. Bing favors sites that have the search term in the domain or sub-domain. And three: Write good code. Bing seems to be less tolerant of poorly composed, non-standards-compliant HTML. Once you have provided good content for your human site visitors, there are at least three things you should do to pave the way for Bing's search algorithms. One: Have a good site map. There are some indications that Bing's search algorithms might be more dependent on site maps than Google's algorithms and search bots. Two: Use keywords in sub-domains. Bing favors sites that have the search term in the domain or sub-domain. And three: Write good code. Bing seems to be less tolerant of poorly composed, non-standards-compliant HTML. Once you have provided good content for your human site visitors, there are at least three things you should do to pave the way for Bing's search algorithms. One: Have a good site map. There are some indications that Bing's search algorithms might be more dependent on site maps than Google's algorithms and search bots. Two: Use keywords in sub-domains. Bing favors sites that have the search term in the domain or sub-domain. And three: Write good code. Bing seems to be less tolerant of poorly composed, non-standards-compliant HTML. tag:odeo.com,2009-09-22,25165799 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 14:00:01 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25160116-Use-CPC-For-Brand-Exposure Cost-per-click ads can be a great way to promote your brand and optimize your online campaigns. There are cases where you can pay for display ads on a cost-per-click basis, and only pay on the click-through. If you are an online merchant, it may be in your best interest to do a cost-per-click campaign where you have a branding ad, because you can get a lot of free branded exposures without ever driving a click. Cost-per-click ads can be a great way to promote your brand and optimize your online campaigns. There are cases where you can pay for display ads on a cost-per-click basis, and only pay on the click-through. If you are an online merchant, it may be in your best interest to do a cost-per-click campaign where you have a branding ad, because you can get a lot of free branded exposures without ever driving a click. Cost-per-click ads can be a great way to promote your brand and optimize your online campaigns. There are cases where you can pay for display ads on a cost-per-click basis, and only pay on the click-through. If you are an online merchant, it may be in your best interest to do a cost-per-click campaign where you have a branding ad, because you can get a lot of free branded exposures without ever driving a click. tag:odeo.com,2009-09-21,25160116 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 13:59:33 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25145916-Sending-Out-Press-Releases Generally, there are two ways to go about getting a press release out. First, you can publicize your press release via distribution services, sometimes called newswires. For a fee, newswires will send your press release to hundreds of journalists. Next, you can target specific publications or blogs that have influence in your industry. Contact specific journalists or bloggers directly via phone or email. Your goal is to discuss the press release topic with the writer you're targeting, and give them an opportunity to have some exclusive or semi-exclusive information, like an interview that generates quotes other than the ones available in the press release. Generally, there are two ways to go about getting a press release out. First, you can publicize your press release via distribution services, sometimes called newswires. For a fee, newswires will send your press release to hundreds of journalists. Next, you can target specific publications or blogs that have influence in your industry. Contact specific journalists or bloggers directly via phone or email. Your goal is to discuss the press release topic with the writer you're targeting, and give them an opportunity to have some exclusive or semi-exclusive information, like an interview that generates quotes other than the ones available in the press release. Generally, there are two ways to go about getting a press release out. First, you can publicize your press release via distribution services, sometimes called newswires. For a fee, newswires will send your press release to hundreds of journalists. Next, you can target specific publications or blogs that have influence in your industry. Contact specific journalists or bloggers directly via phone or email. Your goal is to discuss the press release topic with the writer you're targeting, and give them an opportunity to have some exclusive or semi-exclusive information, like an interview that generates quotes other than the ones available in the press release. tag:odeo.com,2009-09-18,25145916 Fri, 18 Sep 2009 14:09:53 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25140744-Good-PR-Can-Help-Grow-Your-Business Public relations is the art of managing your business' public reputation through media engagement, and it is an important and often overlooked part of successful ecommerce marketing communications. The aim is to build relationships with media outlets and bloggers so that they are likely to report positive and interesting information about your store, which, in turn, can generate significant web traffic. Furthermore, in the event that something negative should happen to your business, having strong PR relationships can mitigate any damage to your company's reputation. Good PR will also have a direct effect on shoppers. Public relations is the art of managing your business' public reputation through media engagement, and it is an important and often overlooked part of successful ecommerce marketing communications. The aim is to build relationships with media outlets and bloggers so that they are likely to report positive and interesting information about your store, which, in turn, can generate significant web traffic. Furthermore, in the event that something negative should happen to your business, having strong PR relationships can mitigate any damage to your company's reputation. Good PR will also have a direct effect on shoppers. Public relations is the art of managing your business' public reputation through media engagement, and it is an important and often overlooked part of successful ecommerce marketing communications. The aim is to build relationships with media outlets and bloggers so that they are likely to report positive and interesting information about your store, which, in turn, can generate significant web traffic. Furthermore, in the event that something negative should happen to your business, having strong PR relationships can mitigate any damage to your company's reputation. Good PR will also have a direct effect on shoppers. tag:odeo.com,2009-09-17,25140744 Thu, 17 Sep 2009 13:35:36 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25135060-Display-Advertising-Can-Boost-Traffic Two recent studies determined that display advertising can significantly boost search-engine-derived traffic, potentially making display ads as effective or even more effective than search engine marketing or optimization for some ecommerce segments. The implication is that for some ecommerce merchants, particularly those in the business-to-business realm, display advertising is likely to be an effective way to increase search engine traffic, not to mention direct traffic. Two recent studies determined that display advertising can significantly boost search-engine-derived traffic, potentially making display ads as effective or even more effective than search engine marketing or optimization for some ecommerce segments. The implication is that for some ecommerce merchants, particularly those in the business-to-business realm, display advertising is likely to be an effective way to increase search engine traffic, not to mention direct traffic. Two recent studies determined that display advertising can significantly boost search-engine-derived traffic, potentially making display ads as effective or even more effective than search engine marketing or optimization for some ecommerce segments. The implication is that for some ecommerce merchants, particularly those in the business-to-business realm, display advertising is likely to be an effective way to increase search engine traffic, not to mention direct traffic. tag:odeo.com,2009-09-16,25135060 Wed, 16 Sep 2009 13:35:46 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25129969-What-is-an-IP-Address Digital Element co-founder Rob Friedman explains IP addresses this way, "An IP address is one of the key building blocks, the core of the Internet. It's basically a number identifier for every device that's connected on the Internet. In strict terms, it identifies the piece of equipment that a person uses in order to gain access to the Internet. So, every piece of equipment that is attached to the Internet has an IP address, and IP addresses are really critical to how the Internet works." Digital Element co-founder Rob Friedman explains IP addresses this way, "An IP address is one of the key building blocks, the core of the Internet. It's basically a number identifier for every device that's connected on the Internet. In strict terms, it identifies the piece of equipment that a person uses in order to gain access to the Internet. So, every piece of equipment that is attached to the Internet has an IP address, and IP addresses are really critical to how the Internet works." Digital Element co-founder Rob Friedman explains IP addresses this way, "An IP address is one of the key building blocks, the core of the Internet. It's basically a number identifier for every device that's connected on the Internet. In strict terms, it identifies the piece of equipment that a person uses in order to gain access to the Internet. So, every piece of equipment that is attached to the Internet has an IP address, and IP addresses are really critical to how the Internet works." tag:odeo.com,2009-09-15,25129969 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 14:17:27 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25124257-Don-t-Undervalue-Your-Business Don’t undervalue your time, services and products. People are generally willing to pay that little bit extra if they know they will be dealt with in a friendly, personable and yet professional manner. Undercutting your competitor’s prices might well result in more sales, but that only takes up more of your time and you'll quickly start neglecting your customers who otherwise might have provided you with years of business. Try spending your energy to build customer relationships instead of cutting your price Don’t undervalue your time, services and products. People are generally willing to pay that little bit extra if they know they will be dealt with in a friendly, personable and yet professional manner. Undercutting your competitor’s prices might well result in more sales, but that only takes up more of your time and you'll quickly start neglecting your customers who otherwise might have provided you with years of business. Try spending your energy to build customer relationships instead of cutting your price Don’t undervalue your time, services and products. People are generally willing to pay that little bit extra if they know they will be dealt with in a friendly, personable and yet professional manner. Undercutting your competitor’s prices might well result in more sales, but that only takes up more of your time and you'll quickly start neglecting your customers who otherwise might have provided you with years of business. Try spending your energy to build customer relationships instead of cutting your price tag:odeo.com,2009-09-14,25124257 Mon, 14 Sep 2009 13:29:35 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25108098-Live-Up-to-Your-Brand-Promise "Branding" means building an emotional and social connection with shoppers. Your brand is really your promise to your customers. Branding creates a relationship that can lead to many happy shopping experiences and increased profits for your business. In fact, branding can be one of the most important keys to ecommerce success. Try to develop a single sentence that describes your company's brand promise and then live up to it in all you do. "Branding" means building an emotional and social connection with shoppers. Your brand is really your promise to your customers. Branding creates a relationship that can lead to many happy shopping experiences and increased profits for your business. In fact, branding can be one of the most important keys to ecommerce success. Try to develop a single sentence that describes your company's brand promise and then live up to it in all you do. "Branding" means building an emotional and social connection with shoppers. Your brand is really your promise to your customers. Branding creates a relationship that can lead to many happy shopping experiences and increased profits for your business. In fact, branding can be one of the most important keys to ecommerce success. Try to develop a single sentence that describes your company's brand promise and then live up to it in all you do. tag:odeo.com,2009-09-11,25108098 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 14:27:05 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25103044-Updating-Social-Network-Campaigns Keep updating your social network marketing campaigns by considering the resources you have available. Do you have promotional videos? YouTube might be the best spot for you. Do you have a good writer on your staff? Maybe the best thing for you would be to set up a blog. Choose one social-media-marketing channel that fits your company best, and make sure you are consistently updating your content and taking part in the conversation Keep updating your social network marketing campaigns by considering the resources you have available. Do you have promotional videos? YouTube might be the best spot for you. Do you have a good writer on your staff? Maybe the best thing for you would be to set up a blog. Choose one social-media-marketing channel that fits your company best, and make sure you are consistently updating your content and taking part in the conversation Keep updating your social network marketing campaigns by considering the resources you have available. Do you have promotional videos? YouTube might be the best spot for you. Do you have a good writer on your staff? Maybe the best thing for you would be to set up a blog. Choose one social-media-marketing channel that fits your company best, and make sure you are consistently updating your content and taking part in the conversation tag:odeo.com,2009-09-10,25103044 Thu, 10 Sep 2009 14:04:25 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25097950-Turn-Shopping-Cart-Abandons-Into-Sales If you want to stem the tide of shopping cart abandons, don't underestimate the profit opportunity that comes with undecided or 'freebies hunting' customers. Do your prospects want your merchandise for free? Get creative! Join forces with advertisers and other merchants around the world and use the 'Get it for free' model to turn shopping cart abandons into sales. If you want to stem the tide of shopping cart abandons, don't underestimate the profit opportunity that comes with undecided or 'freebies hunting' customers. Do your prospects want your merchandise for free? Get creative! Join forces with advertisers and other merchants around the world and use the 'Get it for free' model to turn shopping cart abandons into sales. If you want to stem the tide of shopping cart abandons, don't underestimate the profit opportunity that comes with undecided or 'freebies hunting' customers. Do your prospects want your merchandise for free? Get creative! Join forces with advertisers and other merchants around the world and use the 'Get it for free' model to turn shopping cart abandons into sales. tag:odeo.com,2009-09-09,25097950 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 14:10:55 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25091166-Shop-Flat-Rate-vs-Regular-Delivery The extensive range of U.S. Postal Service flat rate envelopes and boxes can be a huge money saver if you ship in volume, but it also pays to shop flat rate shipping against regular delivery costs on a shipment-by-shipment basis. There are now seven domestic USPS flat rate size and rate combinations, and potential cost savings depend on a fairly complicated comparison of package volume, weight and distance. The easiest way to manage this problem is to create a spreadsheet that presents all the rates in one document. The extensive range of U.S. Postal Service flat rate envelopes and boxes can be a huge money saver if you ship in volume, but it also pays to shop flat rate shipping against regular delivery costs on a shipment-by-shipment basis. There are now seven domestic USPS flat rate size and rate combinations, and potential cost savings depend on a fairly complicated comparison of package volume, weight and distance. The easiest way to manage this problem is to create a spreadsheet that presents all the rates in one document. The extensive range of U.S. Postal Service flat rate envelopes and boxes can be a huge money saver if you ship in volume, but it also pays to shop flat rate shipping against regular delivery costs on a shipment-by-shipment basis. There are now seven domestic USPS flat rate size and rate combinations, and potential cost savings depend on a fairly complicated comparison of package volume, weight and distance. The easiest way to manage this problem is to create a spreadsheet that presents all the rates in one document. tag:odeo.com,2009-09-08,25091166 Tue, 08 Sep 2009 14:38:18 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25072824-Why-Consider-Open-Source-Software Cost is probably the first reason to consider open source software. There are no license fees to worry about and there are typically only minor restrictions on how the software is used, depending on the license. In many cases, the cost of the license is a pretty compelling reason to use an open source product, especially for companies on a budget. Cost is probably the first reason to consider open source software. There are no license fees to worry about and there are typically only minor restrictions on how the software is used, depending on the license. In many cases, the cost of the license is a pretty compelling reason to use an open source product, especially for companies on a budget. Cost is probably the first reason to consider open source software. There are no license fees to worry about and there are typically only minor restrictions on how the software is used, depending on the license. In many cases, the cost of the license is a pretty compelling reason to use an open source product, especially for companies on a budget. tag:odeo.com,2009-09-04,25072824 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 14:31:00 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute http://www.odeo.com/episodes/25067141-PPC-Search-Engine-Tip Does your pay-per-click campaign have coverage across the three primary search engines? There is no reason not to be running on Google, Yahoo! and Bing. Be sure to maintain coverage across all the top three search engines. Otherwise, you’re likely to be missing out on possible cheap sales. Does your pay-per-click campaign have coverage across the three primary search engines? There is no reason not to be running on Google, Yahoo! and Bing. Be sure to maintain coverage across all the top three search engines. Otherwise, you’re likely to be missing out on possible cheap sales. Does your pay-per-click campaign have coverage across the three primary search engines? There is no reason not to be running on Google, Yahoo! and Bing. Be sure to maintain coverage across all the top three search engines. Otherwise, you’re likely to be missing out on possible cheap sales. tag:odeo.com,2009-09-03,25067141 Thu, 03 Sep 2009 15:42:56 -0700 no The eCommerce Minute Podcasts tips practical ecommerce ecommerce tutorials ecommerce minute