You’ve Launched Your Ecommerce Store — Now What?
So you’ve set up your ecommerce site, opened your virtual shop, and now waiting for that very first sale. What’s next?
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed at this stage, but here’s the good news — there’s still plenty of space to grow and make a decent profit in ecommerce. According to SellersCommerce, global retail ecommerce sales are expected to reach US$6.86 trillion in 2025 — a healthy 8.37% increase from 2024.
To get a slice of this growing market, start by identifying your target audience and giving them the products they actually want. Here’s how to build momentum and start earning from your ecommerce business.
Tap Into Your Personal Network
Of course, it feels shiok when a complete stranger finds your store and makes a purchase. But if you’re just starting out — especially with print-on-demand — one of the most reliable ways to score your first few sales is through your own network.
Reach out to friends, family, and your social media followers. Instead of handing out discounts to everyone, create a limited-time coupon code valid for a day or two. This creates a sense of urgency and nudges people to take action — no need to hard-sell.
Offer Customisation That Stands Out
If you’re selling the same things as everyone else, why should people buy from you? To stand out, offer custom options — let customers personalise slogans, colours, quotes, and design elements.
With no minimum orders required, Matter Tee allows you to create anything from one to thousands of products. Whether you’re a small business or a bigger enterprise, just upload your designs and let them handle the production, fulfilment, and shipping — all while keeping customer service a priority.
Work With Micro-Influencers
No need for A-list celebs like the Kardashians lah. Instead, collaborate with micro-influencers — those with 10,000 to 50,000 engaged followers. If your niche is quite specific (e.g. older adults who love hiking), even influencers with a few thousand followers could be ideal.
You can:
- Send free samples in exchange for a shoutout or review.
- Set up affiliate programmes and offer commission per sale.
- Pay for a one-off sponsored post or campaign — it might be worth the cost.
Before working together, ask to see their media kit or past collaborations. Also, observe how their followers engage — comments, likes, shares — to get a feel for their influence.
Run a Giveaway (But Make It Smart)
Giveaways are common in ecommerce — and for good reason. They help build buzz and drive traffic. But to maximise results, pair your giveaway with a strategy.
Use tools like Giveaway Ninja to create campaigns that reward social actions (like follows or shares) with more entries. That way, you’ll grow your audience, increase your email list, and boost your visibility at the same time.
Use a Marketing Channel You’re Comfortable With
If you already enjoy running Facebook ads or are familiar with Google Ads, use that to your advantage. No need to start from scratch.
Just be sure your target audience is active on that platform:
- LinkedIn: Great for B2B or professional services
- TikTok: Ideal for Gen Z, students, younger adults
- Facebook: Popular with 35–45 year olds, families, and working adults
Take some time to research your market, then focus on where you’re most likely to reach them.
Celebrate Unusual or Niche Holidays
Instead of only doing promotions for big events like New Year or Christmas, try tapping into quirky holidays — more fun, less competition.
Here are a few to spark ideas:
- Clean Off Your Desk Day: Perfect for POD office items like planners, tote bags, or notebooks.
- Plan a Solo Vacation Day: Promote backpacks, jackets, and water bottles for solo travellers.
- Answer Your Question Day: Push out themed shirts or cushions — people love this kind of humour!
- Sisters’ Day: Offer gifts and keepsakes customised for sisters.
- American Beer Day: Sell personalised beer mugs or barware — great for POD!
With the right product and a bit of creativity, you can turn an unusual holiday into your next big campaign.
Start Growing Your Email List Immediately
Email marketing is one of the most powerful (and underused) tools in ecommerce. Start collecting emails as soon as you launch — through your website, social media, or giveaways.
Send early-bird updates, product launches, and limited-time deals to your list. Over time, nurture this list with flash sales, customised recommendations, and exclusive offers. When done right, your email list becomes a direct sales channel — reliable and cost-effective.
Learn From Your Competitors (But Don’t Copy)
Your competitors can teach you plenty — what works and what doesn’t. But don’t simply copy them. Instead, study their strategy:
- Are they getting better engagement on Instagram than on Facebook?
- Do their customers love quirky visuals and fun copy?
Take what they’re doing well and put your own spin on it. That’s how you stand out.
Final Word
Building a successful ecommerce business takes time and consistency — especially if you’re selling from Singapore to international markets. But with a clear target audience, smart customisation, and steady marketing, you’ll be on your way to earning that first sale (and many more).
