Why start a webshop?
Starting a webshop: how can you stand out? That's the key question to ask yourself before getting started. With thousands of webshops, the competition is fierce. But don't be deterred. With a smart approach and a focus on what makes you unique, you can make a difference. Moreover, the market is growing: in 2022, the number of online sales in the Netherlands increased by 14.7% (Eurostat).
Did you know that 96% of Dutch people aged 16-75 occasionally buy something online? (CBS, 2023)
What will you sell?
It all starts with the products or services you want to offer. Ask yourself:
- What sells well?
- Where does my passion lie?
- What do I have that others are missing?
For example, don't sell generic socks, but 'matchy-matchy' socks for families. Customers don't just buy products, they also buy the story behind them.
How to choose a niche?
A niche gives you focus and makes marketing easier. Try to find a combination of something that is highly searched for and has little competition. Tools like Google Trends and Ubersuggest can help you with this.
Which platforms are suitable?
There are dozens of platforms to start a webshop, such as Shopify, WooCommerce or – our favourite – Booqdoo. Choose a system that:
- Is user-friendly (even without a technical background).
- Remains affordable as you grow.
- Offers features such as inventory management and links to accounting.
Why all-in-one systems are useful
With a system like Booqdoo, you not only have a webshop, but also tools for appointments, accounting and a website. Less hassle, more overview.
How do you turn visitors into customers?
Attracting visitors to your webshop is one thing, but how do you turn them into paying customers? Tips:
- Ensure good product photos and clear descriptions.
- Use reviews and testimonials for trust.
- Make payment easy: offer iDEAL or Klarna.
Webshops with clear payment options have on average 35% fewer abandoned shopping carts.
How important is SEO for your webshop?
Good SEO will help you rank higher on Google. Use keywords like 'starting a webshop: how' in your texts, optimise product pages and ensure fast loading pages. More tips?
- Write a blog that is relevant to your target audience.
- Use internal links to other pages in your shop.
- Put your main keyword (such as 'starting a webshop: how') in the titles.
SEO in action
Suppose you sell jewellery. Write a blog about 'The 5 biggest jewellery trends this year' and link to your own products. This way, you improve your findability and sales opportunities.
How to prevent no-shows for online appointments?
If you offer a physical service, such as a hairdresser or coach, you want customers to keep their appointments. No-shows cost you time and money. Booqdoo automatically sends reminders to customers. No more no-shows in your diary.
What do you do if you get stuck?
Don't panic. Start simple. First, test your webshop with a small assortment. Finding it difficult to start? Ask for help from platforms like KVK or start with a demo on Booqdoo.