The E-Commerce Times recently published “Rules for E-Commerce Startups to Live By” a two-part series covering often overlooked but tremendously important tips for e-Commerce startups.

The reality is it’s much easier to launch an online store than a bricks-and-mortar store, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy! The article touches on some big points that are crucial to success, but unfortunately often overlooked by new e-commerce stores.

Some of the tips from the two parts include:

• Make Sure Your Site Is Easy to Navigate
• Do not Make it difficult for Consumers to find Your Products
• Do Not Forget about Customer Support
• Don’t Abandon the Customer After a Visit
• And more… (Part 1, Part 2)

Some other tips I would add to this article:

Keep the relationship alive with (effective) email
Email marketing is the ultimate relationship tool, but it needs to be done right. Have a prominent email sign up available for browsers who may become buyers at a later date. Also include an email opt-in (un-checked box) on your registration form. Follow up the sign up immediately with a welcome email, and keep your new subscribers happy with relevant, meaningful

Think about International Customers
As a Canadian, this is one of my biggest pet peeves. I go to a site, find something I like, go through the lengthy registration process — only to find out they don’t ship to Canada. Even if you don’t have the means right now to ship to Canada, let me know, because if you ever do in the future I won’t be buying from you after what you put me through!

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