How to grow your online business

Here, we’ll look at online growth strategies tailored to specific industries, explain how you can make the most of your online presence , and explain how iwoca’s financial solutions can support your growth journey.

September 17, 2024
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Online businesses are having a growth moment.  Free of many of the challenges of brick-and-mortar retail – long-term leases, storing inventory, personnel, in-person footfall – online retailers and other providers are free to focus on expansion. Working online enables access to wider markets, free from geography, as well as using channels like social media and online advertising to target new customers and scale rapidly.

The result is a notable gap between online and brick-and-mortar growth rates, with ecommerce growth expected to grow by 9% through 2027, which is more than double the projection for physical retail at 4%. The same consulting group predicts that online sales will account for 41% of global  retail by 2027, up from just 18% in 2017.

If you’re running an online business, there are a wide range of options for growth, but the right formula will depend on your products, target customers and personal goals.

Why growing your online business matters

In today’s digital landscape, the potential for online business growth is immense. 

As consumers turn to the internet more and more, ecommerce revenues in the UK are expected grow 12.6% year-on-year by 2025.

Growth not only means more sales but also the opportunity to build a loyal customer base, expand your brand, and increase your market share.

5 strategies to grow your online business

  1.  Building a strong online presence

Your online presence is the foundation of your business growth. This involves having a professional and user-friendly website, active social media profiles, and engaging content that resonates with your target audience. Here’s how to do it:

  • Optimise your website: Ensure your website is easy to navigate, mobile-friendly, and optimised for search engines. A good website not only attracts visitors but also converts them into customers.
  • Leverage social media: Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to connect with your audience, share valuable content, and promote your products or services.
  • Content marketing: Regularly publish high-quality content that educates, entertains, or solves problems for your audience. This builds trust and positions your brand as an authority in your industry.

For instance, if you’re running a fitness business, you could create blog posts on workout routines, nutrition tips, and fitness challenges. Engaging content encourages your audience to return to your site, helping you build a community around your brand.

  1. Accelerate growth with paid advertising

Organic growth is your baseline, but sometimes you need a boost to reach new heights. Paid advertising, including Google Ads, Facebook Ads, and sponsored content, can significantly increase your visibility, fast.

  • Google ads: Target customers actively searching for your products or services. This is especially effective for retail businesses and those in competitive niches.
  • Facebook and Instagram Ads: These platforms allow you to target specific demographics, making them ideal for businesses looking to reach a particular audience segment.

  1. Leverage email marketing for retention and growth

Email marketing remains one of the most effective ways to nurture relationships with your customers. By sending personalised emails with product recommendations, special offers, or useful content, you can increase customer loyalty and encourage repeat purchases.

  • Segment your audience: Tailor your email campaigns based on customer behaviour, preferences, and purchase history. This personalisation increases the likelihood of engagement.
  • Automate email campaigns: Use automation tools to send timely emails, such as welcome series for new subscribers or re-engagement campaigns for inactive customers.

  1. Expand your team and resources

As your business grows, you might need more hands on deck. Expanding your team allows you to scale operations, improve customer service, and explore new opportunities.

  • Hire specialised talent: Bringing in experts for specific roles like marketing, content creation, or customer support can enhance your business’s capabilities and free up your time to focus on strategy.
  • Invest in the right tools and technology: Tools like CRM systems, marketing automation platforms, and inventory management software can streamline operations and support growth.

  1. Monitor and adjust your strategies

Growth is an ongoing process, and what works today might not work tomorrow. Regularly review your strategies, monitor key metrics, and be ready to pivot when necessary.

  • Use data to guide you: Google Analytics, social media insights, and CRM data can provide valuable insights into your audience's behaviour and preferences.
  • A/B testing: Test different versions of your ads, email campaigns, and website elements to see what resonates best with your audience.

How financing can support your growth

As your business grows, so do your financial needs. Whether you need funds to invest in marketing, expand your team, or purchase additional inventory, iwoca’s flexible financing options can provide the support you need.

  • Inventory financing: Ensure you have enough stock to meet demand without tying up all your capital in unsold inventory.
  • Short-term loans: Invest in growth opportunities like paid advertising or new hires without the long-term commitment of traditional loans.
  • Working capital loans: Manage cash flow and cover day-to-day expenses as you scale your operations.

Growing your online business FAQs

How can I grow an online business fast?

To grow quickly, focus on scaling your marketing efforts with paid ads, expanding your product or service offerings, and leveraging partnerships and collaborations to reach new audiences.

How long does it take to see growth in an online business?

The timeline varies depending on your strategy, industry, and market conditions. While some businesses may see growth within a few months, others might take a year or more to gain significant traction.

How important is social media for growing an online business?

Social media is crucial for building brand awareness, engaging with customers, and driving traffic to your website. It’s particularly effective for visual and community-driven industries like fitness, fashion, and vegan products.

What’s the best way to grow an online coaching business?

Focus on building your brand through activity that connects you to your audience and builds trust. Think content marketing, webinars, and social proof. Email marketing and personalised offers can also help nurture client relationships and drive repeat business.

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Harry Cranfield

Harry is the Head of Partnerships at iwoca. Outside of work, Harry is an avid supporter of Ipswich Town so football conversations have been a lot more pleasurable for him in recent years.

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