There are many reasons why businesses use WordPress to create websites. However, to sum it all up: it’s an excellent choice because of its many benefits. Such benefits include SEO-friendliness, customizability, and plugins. WordPress can boost startup companies and established businesses alike at affordable prices! WordPress provides highly customizable websites for various industries, including eCommerce. Also, due to WordPress’ customizability, you can design a website for your eCommerce business that’s to your taste. For one, WordPress’ eCommerce Websites allow you to set up an online store. Also, it enables one‑click payments and paid subscriptions.
Putting the ‘eCommerce’ between ‘WordPress’ and ‘Website.’
Visual Objects found that 37% of small businesses in America don’t have their own site. As a company, not having your website doesn’t bode very well for you! After all, you need a robust digital presence to bring in the web traffic.
However, suppose you’re a business on the smaller side or don’t have a big budget to spare. In that case, WordPress offers “[everything] you need for a powerful, profitable site.” You see, WordPress is an excellent avenue for building a business website, especially if you’re in the eCommerce business! WordPress has several Web Design and Development updates, which you can use to achieve the website look you desire.
WordPress features for eCommerce: A rundown
You can always count on WordPress to have the tools for designing your dream website! The great thing about WordPress is that it’s user-friendly. Not to mention, WordPress can get your eCommerce business website up and running with a functioning site at a reasonable price. Sometimes, that price is as low as free. So, even if you’re new to the world of online selling, you can sign up, prepare your products, and ship them out in a snap.
On the other hand, if you’re not sure whether to select WordPress’ Business plan or eCommerce plan, think about your business strategies. Specifically, what are your projections for your business? What do you see when you think of its future? Also, consider how much you need particular features. For example, if you’re OK with using plugins and themes for your eCommerce website, you can go with the Business plan. But, if you want shipping options and offer a wide selection of products, the WordPress eCommerce plan is your best bet.
However, WordPress has several capabilities to help your eCommerce website reach its full potential! Here are some of the most important:
WordPress’ specialized features that can boost your eCommerce site:
- As mentioned earlier, eCommerce Websites on WordPress can account for the type of business you want, whether a small online shop or a bigger store. WordPress allows for scalability depending on the nature of your business.
- WordPress has you covered if you offer recurring or weekly services, such as lessons or subscriptions. You can set up scheduled payments or subscription charges on your website.
- You can apply affiliate links or even sponsored posts for writing product reviews! This way, WordPress can help you build partnerships in the eCommerce business.
- In addition, websites on WordPress come with round-the-clock support, regardless of whether you’re in the eCommerce business or any other industry.
- Also, as humans are visual creatures, WordPress has plenty of space for uploading media files. It’s perfect for keeping all your product images in one place.
WordPress Websites for your eCommerce Business
In 2019, 82% of online shoppers said they preferred to use credit or debit cards when making purchases. WordPress’ eCommerce Websites allow you to accept payments via Payments and PayPal! However, it also lets you accept donations and subscriptions as well. Not only that, but you can even monetize your site using advertisements.
Also, WordPress offers an option to set up an online store on your website. This feature comes with analytics, customized themes and plugins and more! Lastly, there are plenty of eCommerce-focused website themes and plugins on WordPress. First, however, here’s how you can create eCommerce WordPress Websites of your own:
Generate a WordPress site domain name.
You’re going to need the right domain name for your business. It’s got to be short, sweet, and snappy while being as close to the original business name as possible. This way, it’s easier for customers to find you.
Pick a hosting provider!
When choosing the hosting provider, you’re going to want to avoid shared hosting. After all, eCommerce deals in credit or debit cards. Thus, it’s best to avoid being on a server with shared sites in case one of them gets hacked. If you need a reliable hosting provider that goes above and beyond, check out Bluehost.
Have WordPress installed.
You can install WordPress with one click through the hosting dashboard. This method is by far the quickest and easiest. You could also manually download WordPress then upload it to your hosting account.
Install WooCommerce.
WooCommerce is a WordPress plugin that’s especially perfect for eCommerce businesses. It creates product pages, keeps payments secure, has shipping options, and more. The best part? All of this is for free!
Decide on a WordPress theme.
Your WordPress theme will make your site pop. And with WordPress, you can customize your site further. You can choose a free theme if you like, but other themes cost more. Still, you’ve got to ensure that your site jives well with your eCommerce needs.
Add your eCommerce products!
After configuring your WooCommerce plugin, you’re cleared to add products. Just remember to add these details when you upload products:
- Product name;
- Product price;
- Featured and additional product images;
- Long and short product descriptions; and
- Product category (if applicable).
Install additional plugins.
We’ll be honest: WordPress has a lot of plugins. However, cherry-picking plugins for your eCommerce Website can boost its effectiveness! But, you have to vet your plugins first before installing them to choose the trustworthy ones. For instance, Yoast is great if you want to get your WordPress site optimized for search engines.
Add your content.
In your ‘Pages’ section, you can adjust your copy — specifically, things like microcopy that leads viewers through your website. Product descriptions and images also fall under this. Finally, don’t forget your Privacy Policy.
Launch your site.
Before selecting ‘Public,’ try previewing the pages to see if you’ve missed anything. Make sure to check everything out thoroughly. So, once you’re satisfied with your WordPress eCommerce site, you can head over to Settings, then select the Privacy option to turn your site public.
Prepare your WordPress eCommerce websites for business!
There’s a reason why WordPress is so popular. For one, it’s user-friendly, customizable, and scalable! So many businesses rely on WordPress to get their websites up and running, not just eCommerce sites. With WordPress’ plugins and customization, any eCommerce business can thrive and flourish.
Of course, because it’s so user-friendly, any user with any level of familiarity can make a fantastic site. However, a WordPress Development Company can assist in your eCommerce endeavors.
