Lack of Unique Value Propositions
A value proposition is an important part of any business model. When you create a value proposition, you force yourself to think about why a customer should make a purchase from your business. Without a proper value proposition, you’ll struggle with your marketing efforts and conversion efforts.
Remember that value propositions are meant to be defined “from the outside in.” Meaning that they should not focus specifically on products and services you offer, but more on what benefits you can provide to your customers.
Here’s what makes a good value proposition:
- Clarity. Make it easy and simply to understand.
- Properly communicates what a customer will get from your products.
- Explains how your offer is superior to your competitor’s.
- Does not include hype, buzzwords, or business jargon.
- It can be understood in 5 seconds or less.
Delayed Shipping
Amazon continues to shape the shopping habits and behaviors of customers. Delivery expectations may have experienced the most change over the last decade. Today, 54% of consumer identify delivery as the defining factor when choosing who to shop with.
Poor Customer Support
Failing to offer reliable, friendly customer support is a common reason dropshipping businesses fail. When a customer comes to you with a question or concern, this is often times their first interaction with you and will shape their first impression of you and your brand. Invest in developing your customer support to meet your shoppers were they are with unrivaled support.
It isn’t realistic to offer customer support at every point possible, but you should establish one to two different channels where you can respond to customer inquiries in a consistent fashion. Here are the most popular customer support channels:
- FAQs/Guides
- Phone Support
- Live Chat
- Social Media
No Social Media Presence
Being an independent e-commerce retailers comes with what feels like millions of different responsibilities and tasks. It’s easy to forego an aspect of your business that seems unimportant, like social media. However, social media presents an opportunity to reach your customers in a unique, valuable way. Failing to establish and build your social media presence will eventually cost you sales in most cases.
Simply put, your customers are on social media. Whether it’s Reddit, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or another channel, you should position your brand where your customers are. It’s important to note that your competitors are likely already established on different social media channels, so you can’t afford to not bet.
Social media requires a lot of time and dedication to regularly updated content, but with some creativity, you’ll find it easy to create and share content your audience will love. For example, if you’re selling pet toys and treats, your content can be centered around pet health, tips for raising pets, and information for new pet owners.