Kelly slessor, Author at Kelly Slessor

An insider look into an ecommerce launch by Nicole Stanners, Founder of Muze Women

Welcome to Episode 2 of Tribe Talks! Today, we’re diving deep into the world of ecommerce launches, giving you an exclusive insider look into what it takes to bring a new online store to life.

You may ask, what is an ecommerce launch?

An ecommerce launch refers to introducing and making a new online store available to potential customers. It encompasses various stages, including planning, development, testing, and finally, the public release of the ecommerce platform.

During an ecommerce launch, businesses typically focus on setting up the website, integrating payment gateways, sourcing products, establishing marketing strategies, building a database and audience and ensuring a smooth customer experience. An ecommerce launch aims to effectively introduce the brand, products, and services to the target audience and generate initial sales and traction for the online store.

Episode 2: An Insider Look into an Ecommerce Launch

The superstar Nicole Stanners, Founder of Muze Women, joined us to talk about her ecommerce launch and how she built a database and audience before launch—as well as her testing and feedback process and building good customer service in the early stages.

Let’s tune in…

About more Nicole

Nicole is an avid cyclist, triathlete, marketer and equality advocate.

Amongst other things, she’s completed four Ironman, two at the World Championships in Kona, and cycled 5000km across the States with a group of other, avid female cyclists in Race Across America. So, she has had plenty of opportunities to test kit and understand cycling culture!

Nicole is passionate about seeing more women be part of cycling at every level, whether they are size 6 or 16, pro, social roller or complete newbie on the bike.

“I want more women to be a part of cycling, at every level. I want to help build a sport that’s less intimidating, elitist and rule bound. One that welcomes women and allows them to rise to the top. Because when you find your tribe and get the support you need, cycling is a truly addictive sport”.

BIO

Kelly Slessor, is an Ecommerce Coach and a digital marketing expert. Passionate about retail, hospitality and retail service providers. As the founder and CEO of Shop You, an AI powered personalised virtual shopping mall she has spent 20 years building retail technology that responds to customer needs, drives conversions and increases revenue. Over the past year she has worked with over 1000 retailers and hospitality providers. If you want discover more about digital growth and optimisation, work with me.

How to use Google Gemini for ecommerce?

As an ecommerce coach with nearly two decades of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how emerging technologies can revolutionise our online business. And Google Gemini for ecommerce is no exception.

Google Gemini formally known as Google Bard is a large language model (LLM) created by Google AI similar to ChatGPT.

It’s essentially a one-stop shop for reaching your target audience precisely and efficiently.

Gemini is:

It is not a person but a sophisticated computer program. I don’t have feelings or emotions, and I can’t perform actions in the real world.
It’s good at processing and understanding language. Gemini can analyse text, translate languages, and answer your questions, even if they’re open-ended, challenging, or strange.
It’s still under development, and it is always learning. Gemini may make mistakes sometimes, but they are constantly being updated with new information and improving their abilities.

How to use Google Gemini for ecommerce marketing:

Content Creation for Ecommerce

Product Descriptions
Google Gemini meticulously crafts product descriptions that showcase the key features and benefits. This evokes emotions and desires in potential customers. By seamlessly integrating persuasive language with factual information, Gemini ensures that each product description is tailored to resonate with the target audience. Ultimately driving higher conversion rates and customer satisfaction.

Blog Posts & Articles
With Google Gemini for ecommerce at the helm, your brand’s content strategy is elevated. By analysing trending topics, consumer interests, and industry insights, Gemini generates blog posts and articles that inform, inspire, and engage readers. If you are delving into emerging trends, providing expert advice, or sharing compelling stories. Gemini’s content captivates your audience, fostering a deeper connection with your brand and positioning you as a trusted authority in your niche.

Social Media Content
In the fast-paced world of social media, standing out is paramount, and Google Gemini for ecommerce excels at creating content that commands attention. From eye-catching visuals to punchy copywriting, Gemini crafts social media content that stops the scroll and sparks meaningful interactions. By tapping into the latest trends, leveraging user-generated content, and fostering genuine engagement, Gemini helps strengthen brand loyalty and expand your reach across various platforms.

Email Marketing
With Google Gemini’s personalised approach to email marketing, every message becomes a powerful tool for nurturing leads and driving conversions. By analysing user behaviour, purchase history, and demographic data, Gemini delivers highly targeted and relevant email campaigns that resonate with each recipient. Either it’s a personalised product recommendation, exclusive offer, or informative newsletter. Gemini ensures that your emails not only land in the inbox but inspire action, ultimately driving revenue and fostering long-term customer relationships.

Unlocking Personalisation & Customer Service by using Google Gemini for ecommerce

Chatbots
With Google Gemini’s top-notch technology, your customer service reaches new heights of efficiency and effectiveness. Gemini’s intelligent chatbots are kitted out with natural language processing capabilities, allowing them to quickly and accurately understand and respond to customer inquiries. Providing product information, troubleshooting issues, or assisting with orders, Gemini’s chatbots deliver seamless and personalised interactions. This leaves customers feeling valued and supported. By offering instant answers and relevant recommendations, these chatbots enhance customer satisfaction while freeing human agents to focus on more complex tasks, ultimately improving overall service quality.

Personalised Recommendations
Google Gemini for ecommerce revolutionises how you engage with your customers by harnessing the power of data-driven personalisation. Gemini generates tailored product recommendations that resonate with each customer by analysing user behaviour, browsing history, and purchase patterns. Suggesting complementary items, highlighting best-sellers, or showcasing personalised promotions, Gemini maximises cross-selling and upselling opportunities. Driving revenue and increasing customer satisfaction. Gemini strengthens customer loyalty and encourages repeat purchases by providing a curated shopping experience that feels personalised and relevant, ultimately driving long-term business growth.

Dynamic Content
With Google Gemini’s dynamic content capabilities, your website becomes a dynamic and engaging destination tailored to each visitor’s preferences. Gemini dynamically adjusts website content, product recommendations, and promotional offers by leveraging real-time data and user interactions to create a personalised browsing experience. Showcasing recently viewed items, highlighting trending products, or recommending content based on past interactions. Gemini ensures that every visitor receives relevant and engaging content that resonates with their interests. By catering to individual preferences and behaviour, Gemini enhances user experience, increases engagement, and drives conversions, ultimately maximising the effectiveness of your online presence.

Marketing & Optimisation with Google Gemini for ecommerce

SEO Optimisation for Ecommerce
Google Gemini ensures your website content is finely tuned for search engines, giving it a leg-up in visibility and driving organic traffic. Gemini helps your site climb the ranks and stand out in the digital crowd by sprinkling in the right keywords and optimising content.

Keyword Research
Google Gemini for ecommerce delves deep into the digital jungle, hunting down the most strategic keywords to bolster your online presence. With its meticulous keyword research, Gemini ensures your content speaks the language of your target audience, attracting more eyeballs and clicks to your site.

Competitor Analysis
With Google Gemini by your side, you get a sneak peek into your competitors’ playbook. Gemini carefully studies their strategies, uncovering valuable insights that can be used to fine-tune and strengthen your marketing approach. By learning from the successes and shortcomings of others, you gain a competitive edge in the fierce digital arena.

Market Research
Google Gemini acts as your trusty market scout, scouring the digital landscape for valuable nuggets of information. Gemini equips you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions and craft customer-centric strategies by gathering and interpreting market data. It’s identifying emerging trends or understanding shifting consumer preferences, Gemini helps you stay ahead of the curve and meet the evolving needs of your audience.

Additional Advantages

Multilingual Capabilities
You can break down barriers and expand your global reach with Google Gemini’s knack for languages. Between targeting parlez-vous français or hola amigos, Gemini communicates seamlessly in multiple languages, ensuring your message resonates with audiences worldwide.

Data Analysis
Google Gemini dives deep into the ocean of data, uncovering hidden treasures that can drive business growth. By analysing large datasets, Gemini identifies trends, patterns, and opportunities that might go unnoticed. From predicting future trends to fine-tuning marketing strategies, Gemini’s data-driven insights empower you to make smarter decisions and maximise your ROI.

24/7 Availability
With Google Gemini, your customers never have to wait for assistance. If it’s the crack of dawn or the dead of night, Gemini ensures round-the-clock support and assistance. By delivering unparalleled convenience and reliability, Gemini helps you build customer trust and loyalty, fostering long-lasting relationships that drive repeat business.

What are you waiting for?

Dive into Google Gemini today and unleash the power of AI for your ecommerce business!

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need assistance getting started. I’m here to help you navigate the exciting world of online marketing and achieve your ecommerce goals

BIO

Kelly Slessor, is an Ecommerce Coach and a digital marketing expert. Passionate about retail, hospitality and retail service providers. As the founder and CEO of Shop You, an AI powered personalised virtual shopping mall she has spent 20 years building retail technology that responds to customer needs, drives conversions and increases revenue. Over the past year she has worked with over 1000 retailers and hospitality providers. If you want discover more about digital growth and optimisation, work with me.

Content Planning for Ecommerce and Retail Trends

Ellie Degraeve, Founder of Go For Zero

I am so excited to launch Tribe Talks a 15 minute-ish coffee and chat with some of the worlds best retailers, ecommerce store owners and gurus in the ecomm space – sharing tips, tricks and insights giving you an inside view of what makes them successful but also an honest view of some of the tough moments.

Episode 1: Content Planning for Ecommerce and Retail Trends 2024

The amazing Ellie Degraeve, Founder of Go For Zero joined us to talk about the biggest challenges for retailers right now, being customer- focused brand and content planning for ecommerce and retail trends 2024.

Let’s tune in…

About more Ellie

Ellie grew up in a family-owned hotel in Belgium, which instilled in her the values of hard work and exceptional customer service. Her academic background in business psychology and coaching led her to work in International Retail Strategy for the Dutch multinational retail Ahold Delhaize for six years. In 2016, she moved to Australia with her family (including 2 kids) and, in November 2018, launched Go For Zero. The company’s dedication to education, honesty and sustainability earned it the State winner title in the Telstra Best of Business awards for Promoting Sustainability in 2022. Ellie was recognised as the top person in Ecommerce for the year 2023.

BIO

Kelly Slessor, is an Ecommerce Coach and a digital marketing expert. Passionate about retail, hospitality and retail service providers. As the founder and CEO of Shop You, an AI powered personalised virtual shopping mall she has spent 20 years building retail technology that responds to customer needs, drives conversions and increases revenue. Over the past year she has worked with over 1000 retailers and hospitality providers. If you want discover more about digital growth and optimisation, work with me.

Digital Marketing Plan for Ecommerce 2024

“Crafting a robust digital marketing plan is the cornerstone of success for any ecommerce business, ensuring targeted engagement, optimised conversions, and sustained growth in the competitive online marketplace.”

I have spent over 20 years in ecommerce and witnessed firsthand the transformative power of a well-crafted digital marketing plan. Whether you’re steering a multi-million dollar brand or running a one-person band operation, having a solid plan in place can make all the difference in achieving your business objectives.

So, what exactly is a digital marketing plan, and why is it so crucial?

A digital marketing plan is a comprehensive blueprint outlining your brand’s online marketing efforts and objectives. It serves as a roadmap, guiding your actions and investments across various digital channels to maximise reach, engagement, and, ultimately, conversions. Think of it as your strategic playbook for navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the digital world.

Now, let's delve into why having a digital marketing plan is essential:

Strategic Alignment:

A well-defined plan ensures that your digital marketing efforts are aligned with your overall business goals and objectives. It helps you stay focused on what truly matters, minimising wasted resources and maximising ROI.

Targeted Approach:

By clearly defining your target audience and segments, a digital marketing plan enables you to tailor your messaging and tactics to resonate with your ideal customers. This targeted approach increases the likelihood of capturing the right audience’s attention and driving meaningful engagement.

Measurable Results:

One of the most significant advantages of digital marketing is its measurability. A solid plan includes key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics that allow you to track the success of your campaigns in real time. This data-driven approach enables you to identify what’s working and what’s not and make informed adjustments accordingly.

Now, let's talk about what should be included in your digital marketing plan:

Business Objectives:

Start by clearly outlining your overarching business goals and objectives. Whether it’s increasing sales, boosting brand awareness, or driving website traffic, ensure your digital marketing efforts align with these objectives.

Target Audience:

Define your target audience, including demographics, psychographics, and behaviour patterns. Understanding your audience and what motivates them is crucial for crafting personalised and relevant marketing messages.

Competitive Analysis:

Conduct a thorough analysis of your competitors to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. This insight will help you differentiate your brand and capitalise on gaps in the market.

Digital Channels:

Identify the digital channels that are most relevant to your target audience and business objectives. Whether it’s social media, search engine optimisation (SEO), email marketing, or paid advertising, prioritise channels with the greatest potential for reaching and engaging your audience.

Content Strategy:

Develop a content strategy that aligns with your brand voice, values, and audience preferences. Create a content calendar outlining your content’s topics, formats, and distribution channels across various digital platforms. Use AI platforms such as ChatGPT to help you streamline this process and save you time.

Budget and Resources:

Determine the budget and resources required to execute your digital marketing plan effectively. This includes allocation for advertising spend, tools and technology, personnel, and outsourcing needs.

Now, let's wrap things up with some tips on creating a winning digital marketing plan:

Stay Agile:

The digital landscape constantly evolves, so be prepared to adapt and iterate your plan based on emerging trends, consumer behaviour shifts, and performance data.

Test and Learn:

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different tactics and strategies to see what resonates best with your audience. Continuously test and optimise your campaigns based on insights gathered from A/B testing and performance analytics.

A/B testing is critical to any digital marketing plan, allowing you to optimise your website and email campaigns for maximum effectiveness. Let’s explore some ways you can conduct A/B testing for your ecommerce business:

A/B Testing for Your Website:

Homepage Layout: Test different layouts, headlines, and calls-to-action (CTAs) to determine which combination drives the highest engagement and conversion rates.
Product Pages: Experiment with variations in product descriptions, images, pricing, and placement of CTAs to identify the most compelling combination for driving sales.
CTA Buttons: Test different button colours, sizes, text, and placement to determine which combination yields the highest click-through rates.
Forms: Optimise your lead generation forms by testing variations in length, field requirements, and placement to maximise conversions while minimising friction.
Navigation Menus: Test different menu structures, labels, and dropdown options to enhance user navigation and website usability.
Page Load Times: Test the impact of page load times on bounce rates and conversion rates by comparing variations with different loading speeds.

A/B Testing for Your Email Campaigns:

Subject Lines: Experiment with different subject lines to see which ones result in higher open rates. Test variables like length, personalisation, and urgency to find the most effective approach.
Sender Name: Test variations in sender names (e.g., company name vs. individual’s name) to determine which instils more trust and generates higher open rates.
Email Copy: Test different messaging styles, lengths, and tones to identify which resonates best with your audience and drives higher engagement.
Visual Elements: Experiment with variations in images, graphics, and video content to gauge their impact on click-through rates and overall campaign performance.
Call-to-Action (CTA): Test different CTA buttons, text, colours, and placement within the email to determine which combination drives the highest conversion rates.
Timing and Frequency: Test your email campaigns’ optimal send times and frequency to maximise open rates and minimise unsubscribes.
Segmentation: Test the effectiveness of segmenting your email list based on demographics, behaviour, or purchase history to deliver more personalised and targeted content.

Remember, the key to successful A/B testing is to isolate variables and test one element at a time to measure its impact accurately. Additionally, track and analyse your tests’ results diligently, using the data to inform future iterations and optimisations of your digital marketing efforts. Continuously refining your strategies based on A/B testing insights can drive continuous improvement and achieve better results over time.

Invest in Analytics:

Leverage analytics tools and platforms to gain deeper insights into your audience, campaign performance, and ROI. Use this data to refine your targeting, messaging, and overall strategy for maximum impact. Want a challenge? We have our 21-Day Key Retail Metrics Tracking Challenge for Retail Success in 2024. Check it out.

Stay Customer-Centric:

Always prioritise the needs and preferences of your customers in your digital marketing efforts. Deliver value-added content and experiences that resonate with their interests and pain points.

Collaborate and Communicate:

Foster collaboration and communication across your marketing team and other relevant stakeholders. Ensure everyone is aligned on goals, priorities, and timelines to drive cohesive and coordinated efforts.

In conclusion, a well-crafted digital marketing plan is the cornerstone of success in today’s digital age. You can effectively drive your business’s engagement, conversions, and growth by outlining clear objectives, identifying your target audience, and leveraging the right channels and tactics. So, roll up your sleeves, get strategic, and unleash the full potential of your digital marketing efforts! Cheers to your digital success!

Need help with your digital marketing plan or want a FREE website review? Book a quick call with me.

BIO

Kelly Slessor, is an Ecommerce Coach and a digital marketing expert. Passionate about retail, hospitality and retail service providers. As the founder and CEO of Shop You, an AI powered personalised virtual shopping mall she has spent 20 years building retail technology that responds to customer needs, drives conversions and increases revenue. Over the past year she has worked with over 1000 retailers and hospitality providers. If you want discover more about digital growth and optimisation, work with me.

Ecommerce email marketing changes: Gmail and Yahoo’s New Sender Requirements

In the ever-evolving landscape of ecommerce email marketing, staying ahead of the curve is not just a strategy; it’s a necessity. Google and Yahoo, two of the most prominent email service providers, are rolling out new sender requirements that will reshape the way brands communicate with their audience via email. Let’s delve into the why and how behind these changes and discuss the importance of setting up your brand domain to ensure seamless communication and inbox delivery.

Understanding the Changes of Ecommerce Email Marketing:

Google and Yahoo are set to implement stricter measures surrounding email authentication protocols. These measures aim to enhance email security, reduce spam, and create a safer environment for users. As a result, every sender, including ecommerce businesses, will now be required to authenticate their email domain. This means that without proper authentication, your emails may be at risk of being marked as spam or not reaching your audience’s inboxes at all.

Checking Your Status:

To ascertain whether your email domain is authenticated, head to your Klaviyo settings. Navigate to the ‘Email’ section and click on ‘Domains.’ If you find a green checkmark, congratulations – you’re in the clear. This means that your domain is authenticated, and your emails are on the right track. However, if you see a prompt to add a branding-sending domain, it’s crucial to take action promptly to ensure uninterrupted communication with your audience.

Setting Up Your Brand Domain for Ecommerce Email Marketing:

The process of setting up your brand domain is straightforward, and it plays a pivotal role in establishing trust with both Google and Yahoo. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

Access Klaviyo Settings:

Log in to your Klaviyo account.
Navigate to the 'Settings' section.
Click on 'Email' and Go Into 'Domains':
Under the 'Settings' tab, click on 'Email.'
Once in the 'Email' section, select 'Domains.'

Check Your Status:

Add Your Branding Sending Domain:

Monitor and Maintain:

In addition to authenticating your email domain within Klaviyo, another crucial aspect of strengthening your email security is understanding and implementing DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance).

What is DMARC?

DMARC is an email authentication protocol that works in conjunction with SPF (Sender Policy Framework) and DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail) to provide a comprehensive email validation system. By deploying DMARC, you can enhance your brand’s email deliverability and protect recipients from fraudulent emails that may impersonate your domain.

To check your DMARC status and gain valuable insights into your email authentication setup, I recommend using the DMARC Inspector tool available here.

*Enter your domain without the www or https, eg theecommercetribe.com.

This user-friendly platform allows you to assess your DMARC records, identify potential issues, and ensure that your authentication protocols align with industry best practices. Regularly monitoring your DMARC status is an integral part of maintaining a secure and trustworthy email communication channel. By leveraging tools like DMARC Inspector, you empower your ecommerce business to stay ahead of potential email threats and uphold the integrity of your brand in the digital realm.

As an ecommerce coach with nearly two decades of experience in building and optimising digital strategies, I cannot emphasise the significance of adapting to these ecommerce email marketing changes enough. Setting up your brand domain is not just a compliance requirement; it’s a strategic move to safeguard the deliverability of your emails and maintain a positive relationship with your audience.

Stay proactive, stay authenticated, and continue building your ecommerce success story with confidence in the ever-evolving ecommerce landscape.

BIO

Kelly Slessor, is an Ecommerce Coach and a digital marketing expert. Passionate about retail, hospitality and retail service providers. As the founder and CEO of Shop You, an AI powered personalised virtual shopping mall she has spent 20 years building retail technology that responds to customer needs, drives conversions and increases revenue. Over the past year she has worked with over 1000 retailers and hospitality providers. If you want discover more about digital growth and optimisation, work with me.

Ecommerce Planning Day

I’m thrilled to bring you an exciting recap of our recent Ecommerce Planning Day. This event was a valued-packed day of insights, strategies, and actionable plans to help businesses of all sizes thrive in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

We gathered on 18 January 2024 to plan for 2024 at the Ecommerce Planning Day. This immersive event, hosted by The Ecommerce Tribe, aimed to equip retailers with the latest trends, proven strategies, and personalised plans to elevate their online businesses.

Ecommerce Planning Day Key Takeaways

Strategic Planning for Ecommerce Success:

The day kicked off with a deep dive into strategic planning. We explored the importance of
setting clear objectives, identifying their customers, and developing a robust roadmap for
success. With over two decades of experience, I shared insights on how strategic planning
forms the backbone of any successful ecommerce venture.

Trends in Retail for 2024:

Alison Flemming, Senior Executive at Mirvac, brought a unique and insightful perspective to the Ecommerce Planning Day by sharing her retail experience. Her session focused on providing a comprehensive retail overview for 2024, offering valuable insights into the latest trends and strategies shaping the future of retail.

Alison delved into emerging trends, consumer behaviours, and market dynamics that will define the retail landscape in 2024. This information is crucial for businesses looking to stay ahead of the curve and align their strategies with evolving consumer preferences.

Mastering Customer Experience in Ecommerce:

In the world of ecommerce, customer experience is paramount. We delved into creating seamless and memorable customer journeys, from the first touchpoint to post-purchase interactions. Drawing on my extensive experience working with multi-million dollar brands and one-person bands alike, I emphasised the significance of customer-centric approaches in driving long-term success.

Optimising Digital Marketing Strategies:

No ecommerce venture can thrive without effective digital marketing. During the event, we explored the latest trends in online advertising, social media marketing, and content creation. I shared real-world case studies and actionable tips to help businesses of all sizes maximise their digital presence and achieve sustainable growth.

Omnichannel Optimization Strategies:

Shane Lenton, Co-Founder & CEO at The Wishlist Company, shared his expertise in optimising the omnichannel experience and seamlessly connecting physical and online retail spaces.

We explored effective ways to optimise the omnichannel experience, emphasising the importance of a cohesive and integrated approach across various channels. Our retailers gained insights into creating a unified brand experience for customers, regardless of the platform they engage with.

Also, Shane provided practical advice on how businesses can successfully bridge the gap between physical and online retail. This involved leveraging technology, data, and customer insights to create a seamless transition between in-store and online interactions, enhancing the overall customer journey.

Harnessing the Power of Technology in Ecommerce:

The Ecommerce Planning Day was also focused on leveraging cutting-edge technologies to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. We discussed the role of artificial intelligence, automation, and data analytics in optimising ecommerce processes. The goal was to empower participants to make informed decisions and stay ahead in the competitive digital landscape.

The Power of Resilience and Reinvention:

Olivia Carr shared her personal story, highlighting the challenges and setbacks in her life and ecommerce business. Her resilience and ability to reinvent herself became the cornerstone of her success. Our retailers gained valuable insights into overcoming obstacles and leveraging life experiences to fuel entrepreneurial endeavours.

The Ecommerce Planning Day in January 2024 was an invaluable opportunity to connect, learn, and strategies for success in digital commerce. Whether you’re a seasoned ecommerce professional or just starting your entrepreneurial journey, the event provided actionable insights to propel your business forward.

If you missed the Ecommerce Planning Day, fear not! You can jump on a quick call with me
to review your website. Let’s make 2024 a year of unprecedented growth and success in
ecommerce!

BIO

Kelly Slessor, is an Ecommerce Coach and a digital marketing expert. Passionate about retail, hospitality and retail service providers. As the founder and CEO of Shop You, an AI powered personalised virtual shopping mall she has spent 20 years building retail technology that responds to customer needs, drives conversions and increases revenue. Over the past year she has worked with over 1000 retailers and hospitality providers. If you want discover more about digital growth and optimisation, work with me.

Key Retail Metrics 2024 + Template

Join the 21-Day Key Retail Metrics Tracking Challenge for Retail Success in 2024!

In the Ecommerce Tribe, we love a good challenge, and I would love to share this challenge that will transform how you approach your business in 2024.

I’m talking about the 21-Day Key Retail Metrics Tracking Challenge – a game-changer for both seasoned retailers and those just stepping into the dynamic world of ecommerce.

Why focus on key retail metrics, you ask?

Well, in this fast-paced digital landscape, knowledge is power. Whether you’re a multi-million dollar brand or a one-person band, understanding your numbers is the key to navigating the ever-evolving ecommerce ecosystem and is the fundamentals for your business.

Who Should Take This Challenge?

🛍️ Retailers and Ecommerce Businesses – this challenge is tailor-made for you! It doesn’t matter where you stand in your business journey:

Are you not selling yet? Don’t worry! This challenge will help you lay the foundation for success from the get-go.
Are you just starting? Embrace the challenge as a roadmap to set the right tone for your ecommerce venture.
Are you at the early stages of your business? This challenge will be your guide to sustainable growth and long-term success.
Are you revamping your business? Excellent! Let’s refine your strategies and amplify your success.
Are you opening new stores or launching subscription models? Dive in! The insights you gain will be invaluable in optimising these new ventures.

What Key Retail Metrics Should You Track?

Conversion Rates: The compass to customer commitment. Understand how effectively you turn visitors into customers.
Sales (Revenue): The financial lifeblood. Daily figures reveal trends, capitalise on successful promos, and swiftly respond to revenue fluctuations.
Average Order Value (AOV): The silent architect of revenue. Maximise your revenue by focusing on increasing the average amount spent by each customer.
Website Traffic: Your ecommerce pulse. Keep an eye on where your traffic comes from and optimise your channels accordingly.
New Users: Signals expanding horizons. Daily scrutiny refines outreach, captivates a broader audience, and cultivates a thriving ecosystem of first-time visitors.
Repeat Users: The art of customer loyalty. Daily tracking unveils retention success, strengthens relationships, and fosters a loyal customer base.
Cart Abandonment Rate: Untapped Potential. Daily tracking identifies checkout friction, allowing swift adjustments to recover lost sales and optimise conversion.
Cost of Acquisition: The price of growth. Track Meta and Google costs daily for sustainable growth, effectively optimising spending on each platform.

How to use GA4 to find your Key Retail Metrics

As we embark on the 21-Day Ecommerce Metrics Tracking Challenge, it’s essential to leverage cutting-edge tools that amplify our understanding of business metrics. Google Analytics 4 (GA4) is a game-changing platform that offers unparalleled insights into user behaviour and engagement. By integrating GA4 into your tracking routine, you open the door to a wealth of information that goes beyond traditional metrics.

GA4 provides a comprehensive view of website traffic and offers advanced features like event tracking, user-centric analysis, and predictive metrics. Dive into the world of user journeys, understand how visitors interact with your site, and uncover patterns that can shape your marketing strategies. With machine learning at its core, GA4 equips you with predictive metrics, helping you anticipate trends and proactively adjust your approach.

During this challenge, consider incorporating GA4 into your daily check-ins. Explore the Event reports to understand specific interactions, utilise the User Explorer for individualised insights, and tap into the power of AI-driven predictions for a forward-looking perspective. As we navigate the evolving ecommerce landscape, GA4 stands as a beacon, guiding us towards a more informed and strategic future. Embrace the synergy of traditional metrics and advanced insights – let GA4 be your ally in this transformative journey!

Why 21 Days?

It takes about 21 days to form a habit, and what better habit to cultivate than staying connected with your business metrics? Over the next three weeks, we’re going to delve into the world of data-driven decision-making and empower your business for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

How to Participate:

Commit to the Challenge: Make the decision to prioritise your business metrics for the next 21 days.
Daily Check-ins: Allocate time each day to review and analyse your chosen metrics.
Document Your Insights: Use our template to record your observations, successes, and areas for improvement.
Share Your Progress: Connect with other participants, share your experiences, and gain insights from a community of like-minded individuals. Learn more about the Ecommerce Tribe.
Adapt and Optimise: Use your collected data to make informed decisions and optimise your strategies.

What to Expect:

Clarity: Gain a deeper understanding of your business’s performance.
Empowerment: Arm yourself with the insights needed to make strategic decisions.
Transformation: Witness the positive impact on your business as you cultivate a habit of data-driven decision-making.

Are you ready to kickstart your journey to ecommerce success in 2024?

Join me in the 21-Day Key Retail Metrics Tracking Challenge, and let’s set the stage for a year filled with growth, resilience, and strategic wins.

Remember, the numbers don’t lie – let’s make them work for you! 💪📊

BIO

Kelly Slessor, is an Ecommerce Coach and a digital marketing expert. Passionate about retail, hospitality and retail service providers. As the founder and CEO of Shop You, an AI powered personalised virtual shopping mall she has spent 20 years building retail technology that responds to customer needs, drives conversions and increases revenue. Over the past year she has worked with over 1000 retailers and hospitality providers. If you want discover more about digital growth and optimisation, work with me.

Ecommerce Platforms

In the ever-evolving landscape of ecommerce, choosing the right ecommerce platform for your online store is a pivotal decision that can shape the success of your business. With abundant options available, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons of each platform to find the perfect match for your unique needs.

As an Ecommerce Coach with over two decades of experience, I’ve worked with a diverse range of businesses, from multi-million dollar brands to one-person bands. I’m here to guide you through the top four ecommerce platforms and help you make an informed decision.

1. Shopify

Shopify has emerged as a powerhouse in the ecommerce world, providing a comprehensive and user-friendly platform for businesses of all sizes. The platform is renowned for its simplicity, allowing users to set up a fully functional online store easily. The pricing is transparent and scalable, making it suitable for startups and established enterprises. It is ideal for product-based businesses.

Pricing: Shopify offers a range of plans, starting from the Basic Shopify plan at $29 per month, making it affordable for small businesses. Advanced features come with higher-tier plans like Shopify and Advanced Shopify.

Features: Shopify has a robust set of features, including a vast library of customisable templates, secure payment gateways, and seamless integration with third-party apps. The platform’s user-friendly interface empowers users to manage products, track inventory, and analyse sales data effortlessly.

Benefits: Quick setup, scalability, and a thriving app ecosystem make Shopify an ideal choice for businesses aiming for rapid growth. The platform also provides excellent customer support and reliable hosting services, ensuring a smooth experience for merchants and customers.

Bonus: Shopify’s Point of Sale (POS) system seamlessly bridges the gap between online and offline retail, providing a unified platform for businesses to manage transactions, inventory, and customer interactions. With user-friendly features and real-time synchronisation, Shopify POS empowers merchants to create a streamlined and cohesive shopping experience, whether online or in a physical store.

2. WordPress with WooCommerce

WordPress, a household name in content management systems, becomes a robust ecommerce solution when paired with the WooCommerce plugin. This combination allows businesses to leverage the flexibility of WordPress alongside powerful ecommerce functionalities—more suitable for service-based businesses.

Pricing: WordPress is a free and open-source platform, but additional costs may be incurred for domain registration, hosting, and premium themes. WooCommerce is also free, with optional paid extensions for advanced features.

Features: WordPress with WooCommerce provides unparalleled customisation capabilities. With a vast array of themes and plugins, users can tailor their online store to meet specific requirements. The platform supports various payment gateways, shipping options, and tax configurations.

Benefits: The flexibility of WordPress and the extensive capabilities of WooCommerce make this combination suitable for businesses with unique needs. It’s an excellent choice for content-driven ecommerce websites, offering seamless integration of blog content with product listings.

3. Squarespace

Squarespace stands out for its elegant and visually appealing designs, making it an excellent choice for businesses prioritising aesthetics. The platform is an all-in-one solution that combines website building and ecommerce functionalities.

Pricing: Squarespace offers a straightforward pricing structure, starting from $12 monthly for personal websites and $18 monthly for basic online stores. Advanced features are available with the Business and Commerce plans.

Features: Squarespace excels in providing stunning templates that are fully responsive. The platform integrates seamlessly with social media, allowing for easy promotion. Squarespace also provides built-in analytics tools to track website performance.

Benefits: Squarespace is ideal for businesses that value design and want a visually striking online presence. The platform’s simplicity and integrated approach make it a solid choice for those who want a streamlined experience without the need for extensive customisation.

4. Wix

Wix is a versatile website builder that has gained popularity for its drag-and-drop interface and many templates. While initially known for general website creation, Wix has expanded its capabilities to support ecommerce.

Pricing: Wix offers a free plan with Wix-branded domain hosting and ads. Paid plans start from $14 per month for personal use, with the Business Basic plan at $23 per month providing essential ecommerce features.

Features: Wix’s intuitive drag-and-drop editor makes it easy for users to create visually appealing websites. The platform includes various ecommerce tools, such as customisable product galleries, secure payment options, and order management.

Benefits: Wix is an excellent choice for beginners and those prioritising a simple and intuitive website-building process. The platform’s affordable pricing and wide range of templates cater to users who want to create a visually engaging online store without a steep learning curve.

Choosing the right ecommerce platform is crucial in building a successful online business. Each platform discussed – Shopify, WordPress with WooCommerce, Squarespace, and Wix – has its unique strengths and is well-suited to different business requirements. Consider your specific needs, budget, and technical expertise when deciding. Whether you’re a multi-million dollar brand or a one-person band, finding the perfect ecommerce platform is a pivotal step towards achieving your online business goals.

Need help choosing your ecommerce platform or want a FREE website review? Book a quick call with me.

BIO

Kelly Slessor, is an Ecommerce Coach and a digital marketing expert. Passionate about retail, hospitality and retail service providers. As the founder and CEO of Shop You, an AI powered personalised virtual shopping mall she has spent 20 years building retail technology that responds to customer needs, drives conversions and increases revenue. Over the past year she has worked with over 1000 retailers and hospitality providers. If you want discover more about digital growth and optimisation, work with me.

How to use AI for Ecommerce

Ecommerce, a dynamic sector, is experiencing a profound transformation with the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). I am passionate about AI and using AI for ecommerce to save retailers time and money. Let’s dive into the reasons behind the AI revolution and explore its impact on reshaping retail businesses.

AI, especially ChatGPT, is rapidly growing worldwide and constantly improving itself. It only took ChatGPT 5 days to reach 1 million users compared to 3.5 years for Netflix. AI is forecasted to generate USD 100 billion in revenue in 2030.

So, if you haven’t started using AI for ecommerce to save money and time, what are you waiting for?

Influence of AI in Ecommerce

AI’s integration in ecommerce has sparked excitement, leveraging its capacity to analyse vast datasets seamlessly. This capability opens unprecedented doors for personalisation, process optimisation, and enhanced customer service. The result is a retail landscape that operates with heightened efficiency and is inherently customer-centric. This dynamic synergy between AI and ecommerce reshapes the industry, promising a future where personalised experiences and streamlined processes define the customer journey.

AI-Powered Personalisation for Ecommerce

In the dynamic world of ecommerce, AI emerges as a transformative force, enabling businesses to understand and cater to individual customer needs with unprecedented precision. By analysing extensive customer data, AI decodes patterns and preferences, offers personalised recommendations, and curates shopping journeys.

This level of personalisation extends beyond product suggestions to dynamically adjust the user interface in real time based on individual tastes and interests. The result is increased sales through targeted recommendations and heightened overall customer satisfaction.

Customers engaging with personalised content are more likely to convert, creating a positive and enjoyable shopping experience. This personalised approach fosters loyalty, as customers appreciate the effort to make their interaction seamless and tailored.

The iterative nature of AI-driven personalisation ensures a continuous evolution, adapting to changing customer preferences. By leveraging the capabilities of AI, ecommerce businesses can create enduring relationships, boost sales, and cultivate loyalty through genuine understanding and personalised value.

AI Streamlining Ecommerce Operations

Is the burden of repetitive tasks slowing down your operations? AI offers liberation by automating routine operations, freeing up valuable time for strategic decision-making and customer interactions. This boosts productivity and enhances overall operational efficiency, ushering in a new era of streamlined and agile business processes. By entrusting repetitive tasks to AI, businesses can redirect human resources towards tasks that require creativity, critical thinking, and a personal touch, fostering a work environment where innovation and customer-centricity thrive.

Elevating Customer Service with AI

Is your customer service available round the clock? AI-powered chatbots can make it happen. These chatbots handle customer queries promptly, providing 24/7 support and significantly enhancing the overall customer experience.

In 2024, AI’s impact will stretch from predictive analytics that tailor shopping experiences to advanced chatbots that provide personalised customer service. AI is refining supply chains, customising marketing and crafting virtual assistants that manage customer relationships with near-human experiences.

The Future of Ecommerce

Let’s peer into the future to understand where AI is taking ecommerce.

Predictive Analytics: Mapping the Future of Ecommerce with AI

AI-powered predictive analytics emerge as a strategic compass for retailers, navigating the future by decoding customer behaviour based on historical data. This powerful tool allows businesses to anticipate trends and facilitates proactive decision-making and strategy development. By understanding patterns and forecasting future actions, retailers can optimise inventory, tailor marketing efforts, and provide personalised experiences. In essence, predictive analytics with AI transforms data into actionable insights, empowering businesses to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market.

Voice Search: The New Frontier in Ecommerce

Are you ready to engage in seamless conversations with your customers? AI-powered voice search, gaining traction through smart speakers, is poised to revolutionise ecommerce. This technology brings a new level of convenience and interactivity to shopping experiences. Customers can verbally express their preferences and queries, and AI algorithms, powered by natural language processing, respond intelligently. This simplifies the search process and enhances the overall shopping journey, providing a more intuitive and hands-free experience. As voice search becomes a prominent feature, businesses that adapt are poised to redefine customer interaction in the digital realm.

Personalised Search: Retailer’s new best friend

In 2024, it’s conceivable that the search landscape could be significantly influenced by AI-driven platforms such as ChatGPT, Claude.ai and Bard. These language models offer a conversational interface that can understand and respond to complex queries, making them preferable for specific searches.

For instance, when searching for products, users might use these AI assistants for a more interactive and personalised experience. Instead of sifting through pages of search results, a user could simply ask the AI for a product recommendation based on specific criteria such as budget and brand preferences. The AI could then ask follow-up questions to narrow down the options and present the most relevant products, complete with comparisons, reviews, and even buying options. This doesn’t necessarily mean that traditional search engines like Google will become obsolete. They may coexist, with users choosing the tool that best fits their immediate need – perhaps Google for broad, exploratory searches and conversational AIs for targeted inquiries and transactions.

AI is not merely a buzzword but a powerful tool that radically transforms the ecommerce landscape. As we navigate the path to AI implementation, retailers can anticipate a future marked by unprecedented personalisation, efficiency, and enhanced customer service. Embracing AI is the key to unlocking the full potential of your ecommerce business.

BIO

Kelly Slessor, is an Ecommerce Coach and a digital marketing expert. Passionate about retail, hospitality and retail service providers. As the founder and CEO of Shop You, an AI powered personalised virtual shopping mall she has spent 20 years building retail technology that responds to customer needs, drives conversions and increases revenue. Over the past year she has worked with over 1000 retailers and hospitality providers. If you want discover more about digital growth and optimisation, work with me.

Top Ecommerce Trends 2024

Ecommerce trends 2024 to look out for

As we navigate the ecommerce and retail terrain of 2024, the following developments we’ve identified, based on our testing and trialing of new technologies at The Ecommerce Tribe, are not mere trends but the pillars of a new era.

Ecommerce Trends 2024

AI in Ecommerce

The most significant change and impact in 2023 came from the utilisation of AI. We’re seeing this being implemented in and propelling every aspect of retail. This year, retailers that used AI achieved, on average, 10 per cent growth in revenue and a 15 per cent reduction in time spent on processes now automated.

In 2024, AI’s impact will stretch from predictive analytics that tailor shopping experiences to advanced chatbots that provide personalised customer service. AI is refining supply chains, customising marketing and crafting virtual assistants that manage customer relationships with near-human experiences. 2024 is the year of AI.

The search that’s saying something in Ecommerce

In 2024, it’s conceivable that the search landscape could be significantly influenced by AI-driven platforms such as ChatGPT, Claude.ai and Bard. These language models offer a conversational interface that can understand and respond to complex queries, making them preferable for specific searches. For instance, when searching for products, users might use these AI assistants for a more interactive and personalised experience. Instead of sifting through pages of search results, a user could simply ask the AI for a product recommendation based on specific criteria such as budget and brand preferences. The AI could then ask follow-up questions to narrow down the options and present the most relevant products, complete with comparisons, reviews, and even buying options. This doesn’t necessarily mean that traditional search engines like Google will become obsolete. They may coexist, with users choosing the tool that best fits their immediate need – perhaps Google for broad, exploratory searches and conversational AIs for targeted inquiries and transactions.

Interactive retail products: touch, feel, engage

The emergence of high-definition 3D visualisations has revolutionised product interaction online. In 2024, we’ll witness tactile engagement with products via digital platforms. Using AR/VR, haptics, and 3D imagery, customers will be able to touch, rotate, and scrutinise products virtually so they can ‘understand’ them inside and out. Brands using this technology are already attracting increased customer engagement with reduced buying hesitation.

TikTok Shop: social commerce phenomenon

TikTok has transformed from a platform of trends potentially to a retail powerhouse. TikTok Shop integrates social media with ecommerce, enabling users to buy products directly through the app, unlike other platforms that have tried to achieve such a process. It’s shoppable live streams and product showcases connect entertainment with instant buying. The platform’s intuitive design and algorithm ensure that products find their way to the right audiences, revolutionising impulse buying and personalised shopping experiences.

If you want to know the other five ecommerce trends in 2024, read the full article (page 52) here or book a quick call with me.

BIO

Kelly Slessor, is an Ecommerce Coach and a digital marketing expert. Passionate about retail, hospitality and retail service providers. As the founder and CEO of Shop You, an AI powered personalised virtual shopping mall she has spent 20 years building retail technology that responds to customer needs, drives conversions and increases revenue. Over the past year she has worked with over 1000 retailers and hospitality providers. If you want discover more about digital growth and optimisation, work with me.