e-Commerce has been a booming industry, and it’s only going to get bigger. With the rise of online stores comes an increase in problems that have to be solved. But, what are the most common e-commerce problems and their solutions, in order to avoid these pitfalls from the beginning?
Customer Related e-commerce problems
Problem 1: I can’t find what I’m looking for
With so many retailers, outlets and professionals to choose from, it’s hard to find what you’re looking for. However, you may even have trouble finding something that you know exists in a certain store.
Possible solution:
If you are having trouble finding what you need, then try browsing through different categories or using the search bar at the top of the page.
Proposed Solution:
Do as mentioned above plus, ask the seller if he provides live chat one-on-one customer service. This will save you time, since you will be able to describe what you want in detail and receive answers fast.
Problem 2: Will it fit me?
When it comes to clothing, sizing can vary from store to store and even item to item depending on how it was designed. If you are buying a dress, there may be an option in the description or on the picture for “size.” You should always check this before ordering because otherwise you could end up with something that does not fit well at all!
Possible solution:
Use a sizing chart and take into account the country you’re ordering from.
Proposed Solution:
Use a sizing chart and, if there’s an option for one-on-one live video chat, contact the sellers. Allowing them to see your body type, will help them suggest the right clothing size.
Problem 3: I can’t figure out how to buy something on the website
E-commerce isn’t always easy and (sadly) not all websites are user-friendly and, even if you’re an experienced user, you might still have some trouble navigating some sites and even come across payment method issues.
Possible solution:
Look for ‘’help’’ buttons at the website and contact customer service.
Proposed Solution:
Contact customer service through live chat and allow them to help you complete your order.
Problem 4: My account has been hacked and all your information is stolen
Online stores are extremely popular and try their best to protect their customers. However, security accidents might happen.
Possible solution:
Contact the store ASAP and create a new account with different email address
Proposed Solution:
Contact the store even more ASAP, via live-video chat and then create a new account with different email address
Business Related e-commerce problems
Problem 1: How will I stand out?
With so many different stores on Shopify alone, how can yours stand out? There’s not enough time in the day for potential customers to check them all! It’s easy for customers to get lost amongst all of that noise – even if your store has unique products unlike anything else online.
Possible solution:
You can create a memorable online store, a user friendly website and make sure you provide unique, good quality products
Proposed Solution:
In order to make a customer remember you, you can act as mentioned above but, if you want to really stand out, you can provide him with a personal, one-on-one online shopping experience. VClerk is the easiest and more affordable way to do so.
Problem 2: I mosty sale services, no products
When people buy services, they know their money will be going towards someone’s expertise rather than just paying for a product which could also be bought by other people too. However, if you’re a hairdresser or a beautician for example, you might need to see your customer and discuss with him about the services he’s about to receive in order to inform him about the estimated costs and procedures.
Possible solution:
You can try talking via phone or ask for some photos of the client. However, these methods aren’t the recommended ones since, in the first case, you won’t be able to see the customer and, in the second case, both of you will exchange personal info with each other (phone number, email, facebook etc).
Proposed Solution:
In order to get the best possible results, both you and your client, you should consider installing VClerk. This easy-to-use and affordable plugin, allows you to book appointments for live-video calls, without the need to exchange any personal data.
