I just started my first online shoe boutique. I used my own money b/c no one else in my life cared enough to invest (another story) . I have a small inventory but iam proud of what i have and thought when people bought i can buy more. The problem is no one is buying; People are visiting but not purchasing. I use FB, twitter, google adwords, bbwo, yahoo groups and answers nothing. I am getting a little depressed about this b/c this is all i have thought about for two years i do not want to give up b/c we need more black women as successful, financially rich business owners. But i am nervous to sink more money inot a business if absolutely does not have a chance. My site is http://www.shoeforiashoes.com I invite all of you to come but please if the comments are negative please be kind my ego is already fragile:) Thanx
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Hello! I agree with a lot of the previous comments.
While you are working on your web presence and the like try to stay positive about your business. The best way to do that is to KEEP talking and thinking about your business. Clearly you like shoes and fashion because you choose to go into that business. Why not position yourself as a fashion /shoe consultant or shoe stylist and look for blogs/internet magazines/ on the web that have a Fashion theme & section. You could offer to do blog posts/ short articles on the lastest trend in shoes (or whatever) and link back to your store website. I don't know if you have a webcam or video recorder but you could do Video blogs about shoes ( always referencing your website). This is ALL free but keeps you motivated about your business and your interest in shoes. In addition, you can post about the blogs/videos/articles or etc on all of your social media platforms. Just a thought...
Now for the honesty. Your site's visual and graphic appeal does not match the visual appeal of your shoes.
Considering saving up and investing in a higher level of graphic design to showcase your shoes. You can a clean crisp design with the functions you need starting around $300.
Until then, I've saw other online shoe stores sell their inventory on Ebay with a link back to their site.
Strangely enough, I just found that Ebay actually sells new clothing items. For example, a shoe can be search for by style. Say all "peep toe, high heels"
This could be a great way to sell your inventory while raising money for the upgrade to your site.
By the way, I love the name Shoeforia
If you need any other information, feel free to message me. Hope that I wasn't too hard on you.
Having an online store is a good business idea. Most online store owners often overlook the most important question before starting - Who am I selling to, what are their online shopping habits, etc.? Finding answers to these questions will help you build an online store that will target a specific market, especially as a beginner. I have a page on my website that targets that topic.
As web entrepreneurs we also have to manage expectations of "making money". The money might come but hard work is required. Remember we are in competition with millions of others. Mistakes will be made, but we will learn from our mistakes. Find your niche and begin to cultivate your section of the shoes market.
I wish you success in your endeavor!
I'm glad you posted this question, because now i know a great plac to shop for shoes!! Once I actually saw the selection, I was pleasently surprised...and delighted of the prices!! The only drawback for me was my big feet. I wear a size ten...and it seems the cute shoes were in smaller sizes...but its like that all over. I used the link above to get to the site. You have that home page to capture someone. That one did not capture me. The only reason I continued was because I wanted to actually see the shoes for sale. I would suggest showing some of the shoes or even a special of the week on the home page. Just a suggestion......and I will pass the site along! Good Luck!
Thanx. I will work on it :) I can def. change the home page. Great input. I really appreciate the compliments on the shoes. I worked hard on that selection (although small) and to know someone out there likes it means the world to me.
Replies
I agree with a lot of the previous comments.
While you are working on your web presence and the like try to stay positive about your business. The best way to do that is to KEEP talking and thinking about your business. Clearly you like shoes and fashion because you choose to go into that business. Why not position yourself as a fashion /shoe consultant or shoe stylist and look for blogs/internet magazines/ on the web that have a Fashion theme & section. You could offer to do blog posts/ short articles on the lastest trend in shoes (or whatever) and link back to your store website. I don't know if you have a webcam or video recorder but you could do Video blogs about shoes ( always referencing your website). This is ALL free but keeps you motivated about your business and your interest in shoes. In addition, you can post about the blogs/videos/articles or etc on all of your social media platforms. Just a thought...
Congratulations on your new business!
Now for the honesty. Your site's visual and graphic appeal does not match the visual appeal of your shoes.
Considering saving up and investing in a higher level of graphic design to showcase your shoes. You can a clean crisp design with the functions you need starting around $300.
Until then, I've saw other online shoe stores sell their inventory on Ebay with a link back to their site.
Strangely enough, I just found that Ebay actually sells new clothing items. For example, a shoe can be search for by style. Say all "peep toe, high heels"
This could be a great way to sell your inventory while raising money for the upgrade to your site.
By the way, I love the name Shoeforia
If you need any other information, feel free to message me. Hope that I wasn't too hard on you.
Having an online store is a good business idea. Most online store owners often overlook the most important question before starting - Who am I selling to, what are their online shopping habits, etc.? Finding answers to these questions will help you build an online store that will target a specific market, especially as a beginner. I have a page on my website that targets that topic.
As web entrepreneurs we also have to manage expectations of "making money". The money might come but hard work is required. Remember we are in competition with millions of others. Mistakes will be made, but we will learn from our mistakes. Find your niche and begin to cultivate your section of the shoes market.
I wish you success in your endeavor!