Strategy #1 - Copy Smaller e-commerce sites must strive to increase their customer base while costs are still low. Smaller e-commerce sites can see what multi-million dollar sites are doing and simply copy much of what they are doing. Although copying strategy is not a strategy of a market leader, smaller e-commerce ventures rarely have resources to be market leaders.
Strategy #2 - Build Loyal Customers Base Now
While costs are relatively low, now is time to build a loyal customer base that can serve as core business. Small e-commerce ventures should be spending money now to increase size of customer base. Lock in advertising rates and establish ad programs where prices can be grand-fathered in. It will cost a lot more later.
Strategy #3 - Allow For Frequent Site Updates
Keeping your site fresh will keep your current customers coming back to your site without being bored or put off because your site has not changed. The motto, "Content is King" applies to e-commerce sites too! Shoppers and customers need helpful, educational information that keeps them coming back to your site.
Strategy #4 - Move Inventory Around
Just like in a bricks and mortar store, you need to move inventory around. Place different items on sale. Create timely sales. Put items on special and bring them to homepage. Feature items with more information. Put up special graphics for sale and special items. Offer a clearance sale or a clearance section to your site.
Strategy #5 - Auctions for Profit
Supplementing your e-commerce sites with selling on auction sites can be an excellent sales and advertising opportunity. Put items for auction on auction sites and make sure it has a link back to your own e-commerce site.
Strategy #6 - Watch Backend
Now that you have order, you have to finish shopping experience for customer. You should have in place a system to make sure order is shipped in a timely fashion and that customer is kept informed of order status. Email is sufficient for keeping in touch. Make sure you are handing shipping in good time.