If you’re like many other businesses across the globe, you still feel like you’re treading water as the pandemic ends. And one thing we’ve learned from the closings and restrictions is that using the web is critical for small business success.
Fortunately, technological advancement has made it easier than ever to boost efficiency and profit; you just have to use the right tools and strategies! Check out these tips from Bangs Media for making your business more profitable via the web:
Take care of payroll.
These days, it makes sense to do everything you can in the cloud. It’s easier, more efficient, and more secure. For example, look for a cloud-based payroll system that will help you keep track of your team and ensure that everyone is paid on time, consistently. Your platform should also simplify the calculation and filing of your payroll taxes. Many software platforms also offer time tracking, real-time reporting, software integration, and a companion mobile app to manage payroll on the go.
That said, if you want to stick to Excel spreadsheet timesheets to track employee’s work time, you’ll want to include a few key components in the timesheet template so that you have all the information in one place. For example, be sure to include the date, job or shift, times clocked in and out, total number of hours worked, and any overtime or PTO time.
Pay attention to your website.
Regardless of what type of business you run, having a professional website that is up to date is essential. And if you run an eCommerce store, that entire element of your business hinges on the quality of your website.
Assess your current site to see what kind of improvements you can make. If you don’t have a website, then that should be the first step you take toward making your business more profitable.
A professional site will be attractive and effectively represent your brand. It will be easy for users to navigate, the pages will load quickly, and it will provide informative, engaging content. Hiring a professional graphic design agency could be a strong step toward improving your site and overall brand!
Moreover, your online store deserves a lot of attention. Make sure you have up-to-date, high-quality product photos and descriptions, and ensure that the checkout process is as seamless as possible for your customers.
Make it easy for customers to pay.
Speaking of the checkout process, part of creating a seamless experience will be to use the right payment processing system. These days, customers expect a plethora of options when it comes to how they pay for their products. Research the market for a payment processing software that will meet the needs of your customers. Ideally, you’ll accept credit cards, debit cards, and PayPal, among other methods.
Build your reputation and presence.
Your reputation will in many ways determine the long-term success of your company. Providing exceptional customer service and high-quality products or services will go a long way in developing your reputation via word of mouth.
But you also need to use the web tools at your disposal for promoting your brand. Look into software and apps that can boost your marketing efforts via social media, email, SEO, and other methods. Employing a variety of strategies will ultimately help you build the online presence your company needs to have.
Become mobile-friendly.
Your website and online store must also be mobile-friendly if you are to achieve success in today’s business landscape. Make sure they load quickly on mobile devices and that they are compatible in terms of the size, layout, and overall design of each web page. More than half of consumers use their smartphones and tablets for making purchases. That’s a big chunk of the market worth capitalizing on.
Make smart off-the-web decisions.
You’ll need to accompany the above moves by making smart off-the-web decisions for your business. For example, you might consider moving to a location where you have more of an opportunity to attract local customers. If you want to test an area out, look for an affordable apartment to rent. You can use the filter by price feature on Rent.com to find an option that works for your budget. You might also consider opening a brick and mortar location for your business or occasionally doing a pop up. This is yet another way to help you attract new customers.
Making the most of all the web offers small businesses has never been more important. Ensure you are using a reliable and efficient payroll system. Make any necessary updates to your website so that it is attractive, engaging, and easy to use. Lastly, focus on developing your reputation and online presence, and make sure that your website and online store are mobile-friendly.
By Derek Goodman
Inbizability.com
BANGS Media 
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