10 Steps to launch your first online store.

Shopify has developed into a platform that allows ANYONE to sell anything. It requires very little coding and has an app store that almost fulfils most business needs.

One of the most common concerns when launching an online store is actually where to start. There are videos on how to do this, however, a checklist makes it much more simple when you are doing it for the first time.

Start with these basics.

Here are 10 steps to help you set up your first Shopify store.

1. Domain name
   Choose a domain name that is easy to remember, relevant to your brand, and ideally contains keywords that describe what you sell.
   Cloudflare is a good place to start. 
   

2. Simple design
   Ensure that your website is visually appealing and easy to navigate. Use a clear and legible font, high-quality images, and a responsive layout that works well on mobile devices.
   Choose a theme that works for your brand.

3. High-quality product images
   Provide high-resolution product images with multiple angles and zoom-in capabilities so that customers can see what they're buying.
   3D images and GIF’s work well also.
   

4. Clear product descriptions
   Write detailed product descriptions that highlight the features and benefits of your products.
   Use bullet points and subheadings to make them easy to read.

5. Product reviews
   Include customer reviews and ratings on your product pages to build trust and credibility with potential buyers.
   There are some amazing apps that now do this to encourage customers to leave reviews.

6. Secure checkout 
   Use a secure checkout process that protects customer data and provides multiple payment options.
   This is important and being able to one click check out is something that converts more transactions.

7. Shipping and return policies
   Clearly state your shipping and return policies on your website to manage customer expectations and avoid confusion.
   Find your courier or shipping partner first.

8. Customer support
   Provide multiple channels for customer support, such as email, phone, and chat, and respond to inquiries promptly.
   This is almost the number 1 priority when launching your store. 

9. Marketing and promotion
   Develop a marketing plan to attract customers to your website, such as email marketing, social media advertising, and influencer partnerships.

   What you promote matters. Do it often. Even when you have regular customers.

10. Analytics and reporting
    Use Shopify's built-in analytics and reporting tools to track your website's performance and identify areas for improvement.

Working through these one by one will ensure that you have a online retail presence within a few weeks. Remember, these tasks will take some time, so give yourself a window to get them all done before telling everyone when your online store is open.