Learning

Why its Important to Use Customer Incentives in an eCommerce Business

Customer incentives have long been a brilliant way for eCommerce stores to attract new consumers and secure long term relationships with their buyers.

It seems simple, but the process of using them is actually much more complicated than many initially think. It’s not enough to just have a working app or a great product, you need an incentive to push it over the edge.

Securing and promoting a customer incentive that works for your business can be as much of a time investment as an extensive digital marketing campaign or product launch. It is something that will be attached to your brand and reputation, so you need to ensure you’re doing it right.

Here is our guide to what you need to know about using customer incentives on your eCommerce store.

What is an incentive?

An incentive is something a store offers to give additional value to a product or service.

Offering customers additional benefits on top of their purchase can turn what was originally a standard buying experience into something much more memorable.

Incentives allow eCommerce stores to:

Improve their customer retention
Discreetly survey their audience
Make amends for poor customer feedback
Build a trustworthy business
Increase their brand visibility.

From a free mint on a pillow to an almost-essential add-on, customer incentives come in all shapes and sizes and are often the difference between a middling eCommerce store and a successful one.

There is no universal solution

As foolproof as the idea of customer incentives can feel, it’s hardly a universal solution to a failing business.

Sure, everyone loves something for free, especially when it’s tied in with a purchase they’re already making, but not every product or service you provide will be relevant.

In fact, a few miscalculations could end up annoying your customers more than pleasing them, especially if you tack on a frustrating process in order to give them access to it.

There are so many reasons you may want or need to use a customer incentive, but many examples you see around the web won’t be relevant to your brand or industry.

Larger brands and licensed sellers of premium goods will find it easier to include additional products as an incentive to buy on every order, while a smaller store (perhaps on a platform such as Etsy) may want to personalize each order. In this case, the gift may be something the customer is only made aware of on delivery, and become an incentive more relevant for repeat purchases.

Your goal is to stimulate feedback

To ensure customer incentives don’t become a case of you giving away something for nothing, they need to come with a goal of stimulating feedback from the customer.

Without kickback in the form of a recommendation, the act of giving something extra with your service becomes watered down. Sure it brings in the customer, but what long term goals does it achieve?

The term shareable has changed a lot in our social media-driven world. However, it is a crucial factor in determining the success of a customer incentive campaign.

Social shareability is important (you want people talking about your deal on Twitter and increasing your reach), but word of mouth recommendations from family and friends are just as important. When we say shareable, we mean the customer can’t wait to tell everyone they know the moment they open their package. You’d be surprised how much people enjoy talking about how they’ve saved money or got something for nothing, and that’s a trait that you need to harness.

Promises are easy to break

Playing the customer incentive game requires a significant amount of concentration and making sure every element of your business and advertising is working in tandem.

It’s simply not good enough to have live Google and social media advertising floating around promoting your store alongside a unique giveaway or special program if that incentive is no longer live. If a customer clicks through to order and finds that they won’t be getting the free gift or service the ad promised them, they’re unlikely to stick around.

Even worse is when they place the order and find out after the fact. Unfortunately, you have to operate with a ‘customer is always right’ mentality. That means their mistakes caused by your lazy advertising need to be rectified. When you’re out of a free gift or have cancelled a discount code, this can be hard to do.

It’s easier than it looks to inadvertently break your promises. To get around this ensure you have systems in place to avoid lapses in concentration. Your marketing team needs to be kept up to date with stock issues and customer service teams need to understand how to quickly and effectively respond to angry customer queries about unfulfilled promises.

Popular incentives you should consider (with examples)

To finish, let’s take a look at some popular incentives across eCommerce that may be relevant to your store.

Freebies

THE classic customer incentive. A free gift is a brilliant way to sweeten the deal and draw consumers away from your competitors.

A free gift can make a product seem a lot more appealing than it initially appears, particularly if it’s relevant to the initial purchase. An add-on can improve their enjoyment of the product, while something totally unexpected can increase their interest in the niche.

Freebies are prevalent across every industry, but the gaming and gambling sectors are arguably led by businesses that offer the best promotions and hot offers. For example, the best casino bonuses often make the difference between where new and existing players spend their money. The niche is so competitive that at some point, every online casino has to give something away to draw customers in.

For your business, this illustrates that if you strike the balance of your giveaways just right, you’ll earn a certain level of brand loyalty from shoppers. The next time a customer needs the product you’re selling, they’ll remember the extras they got with your store and check to see if there are similar offers.

Although this can sometimes lead to a cycle of expectancy, a quality service can earn consumer’s trust and lead them further into the webstore than they originally would have ventured. The right gift can even earn you essential exposure and position your store as a market leader, forcing competitors to match your offer to keep up. It’s a great way to compensate for higher prices and longer shipping times.

Scarcity

“Low stock! Buy Now” — a promotion as old as time itself.

Scarcity works as an incentive because the limited availability of a product encourages consumers to act quickly. It can be used to shift existing stock of soon to be redundant products and ramp up interest in your brand.

Throughout the fashion industry clothing brands such as DoubleF have been able to build a significant following on the concept of limited availability. ‘Limited run drops’ have helped to change the perception of designer and popular clothing, positioning these stores as market leaders without having to develop innovative product lines or invest heavily in original marketing. Customer Incentives in an eCommerce Business

This is yet another instance in which the online gaming and gambling industry have proven themselves successful.

Take the Mega Millions Online game as an example. Something as simple as a countdown to the draw date doesn’t just immediately scarcity of time but a sense of action, encouraging readers to get involved as soon as they possibly can (improving not just player numbers but CTR). Something as simple as the prize total, entry cost and a countdown to drive tension can get people excited to get a piece of the Mega Millions action right then and there.

Customer Incentives in an eCommerce Business

Often, scarcity can lead to increased word of mouth promotion among fanatics and regular consumers alike. In some cases, it can earn you unique promotional opportunities, with blogs and media outlets jumping on your products due to their perceived rarity. There’s a lot an eCommerce store can gain from a simple ‘low stock’ banner.

Social conscious

In 2020, consumers aren’t just concerned with what they can purchase, but what they can give back.

Being socially conscious and presenting your store as a place to do good is one of the most surprising, but powerful incentives to emerge in the eCommerce industry. As consumers become more aware of emerging social issues and the production processes of their favourite goods they seek new opportunities to change the world.

This can be achieved through direct measures to help the people who make said products, or by supporting leather social aims, as we saw through widespread support for the Black Lives Matter movement.

But what’s in it for you? Well, not just the chance to appeal to a new, more socially conscious consumer base (one that is often very loyal), but unique branding and content opportunities alongside other forward-thinking companies and motivation for your team behind the scenes.

Customer Incentives in an eCommerce Business

Loyalty programs

Customer loyalty is a difficult thing to earn.

That loyalty doesn’t come cheap, but once you’ve earned it it’s much easier to strengthen those consumer bonds

Being thrown into a loyalty program where they have the chance to access exclusive deals and even win prizes is a great way to incentivize customers looking for that little bit extra to buy.

Take makeup brand Sephora as an example. They make their decidedly not cheap products more accessible by rewarding their 17 million members with exclusive offers and discounts. The option to be added to this list or gain access to further discounts, beauty tips and exclusive sets is a great reason for a consumer to take the initial plunge. These incentives turn what would have previously been a one-time customer into a repeat purchase brand advocate.

This kind of program is a chance to completely change the perception of your brand, whether it’s for high-value products such as Sephora makeup or simply your morning coffee choice with Starbucks. Loyalty programs aren’t just spaces to give stuff away, they can be used as a brand-building exercise and an opportunity to build awareness of your store through your most committed customers.

Perhaps most importantly of all, incentives are now an expected part of eCommerce.

Every customer wants a deal, whether it’s a free gift or an exclusive discount. Your job as a store owner is to provide this without compromising your business.

Organisation, originality and awareness of the current eCommerce landscape can help you do them successfully.

Learning

First-Time Buyer’s Guide to the UK Property Market

Entering the UK property market as a first-time buyer can feel both exciting and daunting. The process is filled with potential pitfalls and complex decisions, but with the right guidance, it can be navigated smoothly. The estate agents in Yorkshire demystify the journey from the initial decision to buy a home to the moment you step over the threshold of your new property.

Understanding Your Financial Position

The first and perhaps most crucial step in the home-buying process is understanding your financial situation. This includes assessing your savings, income, and current debts. Here’s how you can prepare:

1. Deposit: Generally, you’ll need at least 5% of the property price as a deposit, though aiming for 10% or more can provide better mortgage rates.

2. Income and Expenses: Use a budget planner to assess your monthly income against your expenses. This will help you understand how much you can afford in monthly mortgage repayments.

3. Credit Score: Lenders will evaluate your credit score to determine your mortgage eligibility. So it’s important to have a good credit score, and you should work on it if required.

4. Mortgage Options: Speak to a mortgage advisor to understand different types of mortgages, such as fixed-rate, variable-rate, and help-to-buy schemes.

Getting a Mortgage Agreement in Principle

A Mortgage Agreement in Principle (AIP) is a statement from a lender indicating how much they’ll likely lend you. You will be a more attractive buyer with an AIP as it shows sellers you’re serious and financially prepared.

Deciding What You Want

Before you start viewing properties, it’s essential to know what you’re looking for. Consider the following factors:

1. Location: Proximity to work, schools, public transport, and amenities are key. Research neighbourhoods to find the best fit for your lifestyle.

2. Property Type: Decide whether you want a flat, terraced house, semi-detached, or detached property. Each has its pros and cons.

3. Must-Haves: Make a list of non-negotiables, such as the number of bedrooms, garden size, and parking facilities.

4. Future Proofing: Consider your future needs. Are you planning to start a family? Do you need space for a home office?

Starting the Property Search

With a clear idea of what you’re looking for, you can begin your property search. Here are some tips:

1. Use Online Portals: Websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket are excellent starting points. Set up alerts to get notified of new listings that meet your criteria.

2. Visit Estate Agents: Register with local estate agents who can provide insights into the market and inform you of new properties before they’re listed online.

3. Attend Viewings: Don’t rush this part. Visit several properties to get a feel for what’s available in your price range.

Making an Offer

Once you find a property you love, it’s time to make an offer. Here’s how to approach it:

1. Research: Check the selling prices of similar properties in the area to gauge a fair offer.

2. Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate. The starting point is most usually the asking price.

3. Conditions: You might include conditions in your offer, such as the inclusion of certain fixtures or a specific moving date.

The Legal Process

If your offer is accepted, the legal process begins. You’ll need a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to handle the legalities. Here’s what to expect:

1. Conveyancing: This is the legal transfer of property ownership. Your solicitor will handle this, including conducting searches, dealing with the Land Registry, and transferring the funds.

2. Surveys and Inspections: Arrange for a property survey to check for structural issues. There are different types of surveys, from basic condition reports to full structural surveys.

3. Mortgage Finalisation: Once the survey is complete and satisfactory, your mortgage can be finalised.

4. Exchange of Contracts: This is when the sale becomes legally binding. You’ll pay your deposit at this stage.

5. Completion: On the agreed completion date, the remaining money is transferred, and you receive the keys to your new home.

Moving In

Moving day can be hectic, but planning can ease the stress:

1. Hire a Removal Company: Book a reliable removal company well in advance. Discover the best deals by getting quotes from multiple companies.

2. Pack Strategically: Label your boxes by room and keep essential items accessible.

3. Notify Utilities and Change Address: Inform your utility providers of your move date and update your address with banks, the DVLA, and other important institutions.

Settling In

Get settled. Introduce yourself to the neighbours, familiarise yourself with the local area, and really start to make the place your own.

Here are a few final tips:

1. Safety Checks: Make sure that your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working, and make sure that you know where the gas and electricity meters are located.

2. Maintenance Plan: Keep a record of the smooth functioning of your new home with a maintenance schedule, complete with regular checks and seasonal tasks.

3. Personal Touches: Add personal touches to make the space feel like home. This can be from putting up family photos or redoing the decoration in your rooms.

Conclusion

Buying your very first home in the UK is most definitely a milestone, difficult and full of challenges but rewarding in the end. Such a philosophy guides you in understanding finances and knowing what you want to achieve from detailed research, and seeking professional advice that confidently helps you navigate the property market. Yes, the journey may have its hurdles, but in the end—owning your own home—the reward will be worth the effort. Welcome to your new chapter!

Learning

5 Health Benefits of Regular Pedicures

There’s nothing quite like a pedicure to keep your feet looking and feeling their best, but did you know that pedicures do more than simply enhance the appearance of your feet? Many people don’t realize that regular pedicures can come with a wide range of health benefits that can promote the well-being of your feet, so here are some ways that your routine pedicure keeps both your toenails and feet in the best condition possible!

Smoother Skin

One of the biggest misconceptions about pedicures is that they only cater to and look after your toenails. While you’ll definitely be leaving each session with a fresh coat of nail polish, your pedicure can also do wonders for the health of your skin. Aside from trimming and shaping your nails and cuticles, you’ll notice that your nail technician also dedicates a few steps to the skin of your feet.

After inspecting your feet and looking for any issues or imperfections that may need to be addressed, your technician will work on an exfoliating scrub to remove any dead skin cells. This step may also be aided by a foot file, which can be used to buff away any calluses and other problem areas manually.

Softer Skin

After your nail technician addresses all the problem areas of your feet and removes any unwanted dead skin cells, he or she will often massage in a moisturizing product, such as lotion, cream, or butter, to ensure that your skin is properly moisturized. These products contain skin-loving ingredients that will ensure that your feet have everything they need to look and feel their best so that you can walk out of your pedicure with a renewed sense of confidence.

Healthier Nails

After your pedicure session, your nails will not only look better due to the fresh coat of nail polish, but they’ll also be healthier and stronger. This is because your nail technician takes their time to ensure that your nails are properly looked after through steps that include deep cleaning, nail trimming, nail filing, and cuticle care. All of these things work together to prevent issues like ingrown nails from occurring, all the while improving the appearance of your nails.

Increased Blood Circulation

While the specific steps included in your pedicure will depend on the beauty salon, most pedicures will have a massage step somewhere in the mix. One of the often overlooked benefits of these massages is the increased blood circulation, which can deliver more nutrients and oxygen to your feet and nails, promoting their health and appearance. Aside from that, better blood flow means reduced tension and soreness, as well as better distributed heat throughout your body.

Reduced Infections

A significant amount of dirt and bacteria can build up on your feet without you even realizing it, but pedicures can be a great way to prevent these from happening in the first place. The exfoliation step of a pedicure removes dead skin cells as well as all the debris that may have accumulated underneath, and the deep cleaning of your toenails and cuticles also gets rid of any impurities that may have slipped beneath them, which can stop infections from happening.

These are some of the many health benefits that you can look forward to at your next pedicure appointment. However, it’s worth noting that you need to book regular sessions to truly reap all the rewards. This can be difficult, especially when you don’t feel like driving to your nearest nail salon after a long day, but the good news is that you can enjoy the salon experience in the comfort of your own home with a home pedicure service.

Learning

Commercial Boiler Installation Services London

For businesses in the bustling city of London, having a reliable heating system is crucial. Whether you’re opening a new office, expanding your current premises, or simply upgrading an outdated system, commercial boiler installation services for businesses in London are essential to ensure your operations run smoothly and efficiently. Proper installation and maintenance of commercial boilers can make a significant difference in energy efficiency, cost savings, and the overall comfort of your workspace.

The Importance of Professional Installation

When it comes to installing a commercial boiler, professional expertise is paramount. Here’s why:

Efficiency and Performance: Professional installation ensures that your boiler operates at peak efficiency, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills. A well-installed boiler can effectively meet the heating demands of your business without unnecessary energy waste.
Safety: Commercial boilers are complex systems that require precise installation to operate safely. Professional installers adhere to stringent safety standards and regulations, minimizing the risk of accidents and ensuring the safety of your employees and premises.
Compliance with Regulations: Commercial properties are subject to various building codes and regulations. Professional installers are well-versed in these requirements and ensure that your boiler system complies with all local laws and standards.
Longevity and Reliability: Proper installation is critical to the longevity and reliability of your boiler. A professional installation can prevent common issues such as leaks, pressure problems, and system failures, ensuring that your boiler runs smoothly for years to come.

Key Considerations for Commercial Boiler Installation

When planning for a commercial boiler installation, several factors need to be considered:

Type of Boiler: The type of boiler you choose will depend on your business’s specific needs. Options include gas boilers, oil boilers, and electric boilers, each with its own set of advantages. Consulting with a professional can help you determine the best choice for your business.
Sizing and Capacity: The boiler’s size and capacity must match the heating demands of your commercial space. An undersized boiler will struggle to meet your needs, while an oversized one will lead to inefficiencies and higher costs.
Location: The placement of your boiler affects its efficiency and accessibility for maintenance. Professional installers can help you choose the optimal location for your boiler.
Integration with Existing Systems: If you’re upgrading or replacing an existing boiler, it’s essential to ensure compatibility with your current heating system. Professional installers can seamlessly integrate the new boiler with your existing setup.

Choosing the Right Installation Service

Selecting the right installation service provider is crucial to the success of your boiler installation project. Consider the following when making your choice:

Experience and Expertise: Look for a provider with a proven track record in commercial boiler installations. Experienced installers can handle the complexities of commercial systems and provide high-quality workmanship.
Reputation: Check reviews and testimonials from previous clients to gauge the provider’s reliability and customer satisfaction.
Comprehensive Services: Choose a provider that offers a full range of services, including installation, maintenance, and repair. This ensures that all your boiler needs are met by a single, trusted source.

In London, ROWLEN is a reputable name known for delivering top-notch commercial boiler installation services. Their team of experts is dedicated to providing efficient, safe, and compliant installations tailored to the unique needs of businesses.

Conclusion

Investing in professional commercial boiler installation services for businesses in London is essential for ensuring efficiency, safety, and long-term reliability. By choosing an experienced and reputable service provider like ROWLEN, you can rest assured that your heating system will be installed correctly and maintained to the highest standards. Proper installation not only enhances the performance of your boiler but also contributes to the overall comfort and productivity of your business environment.

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