Find out what you should prioritise first when setting up your online business and avoid putting effort into things that your customers simply don't care about.

A lot of small business fail and the reason is that the business owner spends too much time and effort doing things that the customer simply doesn’t care about when you are a small business – for example, creating a website, making a fancy logo, complex payment options, etc.

Successful business focus first on trying to engage with customers using the channels they are already using (e.g. eBay, Etsy, etc) and leveraging in-built payment solutions (PayPal, Stripe, etc).

Then as their business grows, and only after they have a loyal customer base, can they determine whether setting up a website, other alternative payment solutions are right for those customers.

“I’m trying to start a new business from home. Have acquired stock and started a Facebook page. Easy part done. Now I need a logo and a selling platform or basic website. I want to become a merchant as I feel it will make for a key selling point.”

How to

When you start a business, the first thing you need to achieve is delivering a unique value proposition to your customers in the places potential customers are already shopping.

1. Avoid setting up a website first – promote your business through established marketplaces where customers are already browsing and shopping – this saves a LOT of time, a LOT of money on advertising and other unnecessary costs such as making a logo, setting up payment gateways, especially when you’re starting out!
2. Grow your business by making it easy for customers (quick payments, etc) and making a great experience (email subscriptions, packaging, etc)
3. Engage with loyal customers by inviting them to your Facebook page and offer them special deals and updates about your products and services.

• Creating a Budget
  Creating a budget is key to smart spending. It helps you track and manage your money.Creating a Budget
• Setting Financial Goals
  Set financial goals to help you stay on track with smart spending. Create a plan and stick to it!Setting Financial Goals
• Tracking Spending Habits
  Smart spending means tracking your spending habits to ensure you stay within budget and reach financial goals.Tracking Spending Habits
• Reducing Unnecessary Expenses
  Cutting back on unnecessary expenses is key to smart spending. Save money by evaluating your spending habits.Reducing Unnecessary Expenses
• Making Smart Purchases
  Smart spending means making wise purchases that fit within your budget and provide long-term value.Making Smart Purchases
• Saving for the Future
  Smart spending now can help you save for the future. Plan ahead and make wise decisions to ensure financial security.Saving for the Future