Owning a small business is appealing. The idea of freedom, flexibility, and the satisfaction of creating something from scratch is why many dream of leaving their regular job and becoming their own boss.
However, let’s be real: starting any business, whether online or not, is challenging. It requires effort, commitment, and a fair amount of resilience. The good news? You don’t have to dive into entrepreneurship right away and quit your current job. In fact, there are several ways to start building your own online business while still holding onto your steady paycheck.
To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of online business suggestions suitable for both beginners and those with some experience. We’ll also break down the essential steps to get your online business up and running.
How to get started with an online business
When identifying what products to sell online, keep these few things in mind:
Step 1. Identify the right niche for you.
What keeps you on your toes? What are the hobbies that you enjoy doing? What do you enjoy learning about? Selling products aligned with your passions and interests will keep you motivated and engaged in the long run. With the knowledge you have about your passion and interest, you can refine the product more to gain a competitive advantage.
While an eCommerce business is the most common and most popular type of online business, it’s not the only one. You can also start an online business to provide an app or sell a service. For example, a personal trainer could start an online business that hosts workout videos customers can subscribe to, sells access to their digital content, or offers one-on-one nutrition and workout consulting delivered via videoconferencing. If you have software development skills or know someone who does, you can also start an online business providing web-based and/or mobile apps to consumers or businesses.
Step 2. Research market demand
Once you’ve listed potential niches, research the market demand. This helps you determine whether your product will be profitable and anticipate potential challenges or roadblocks before selling it. You can begin by checking social media trends and selling trends on eCommerce sites (i.e., Amazon, Shopify, etc.), using Google Trends data, conducting interviews and surveys, etc. Whatever fits the bill for you, you can start selling that product.Â
Moreover, researching the market demand allows you to analyze what your competitor has to offer. You can use this information to spot areas of opportunity to provide better value to your customers.
Step 3. Name your online store
A catchy business name is memorable, conveys what your business does, and is easy to say and spell is a must for an online business. You don’t want a name that’s too long or too awkward. It’s also important to make sure that your online business idea or name translates well to a domain name. You may not be able to buy the exact name of your business as a domain name if someone else already has it, but you should try to get as close as possible. Also remember that .com isn’t the only domain name extension out there — you can also try the extension .net, .biz, or .online, among others. Using a different extension can give you more flexibility in your domain name.
Related: Search for domain names
Step 4. Create an online store
When you build an online store, it’s essential to choose a solution provider that’s tested and proven. You’ll want to choose a plan that provides everything you need to launch your online store, such as a domain, business email, an SSL certificate, and more.Â
Selecting a web host is a critically important decision for starting an online business. You want to ensure that the web host you choose has the capacity to grow with your business as it expands, with plenty of storage space so your website will load quickly. You also want to make sure your business is always available to customers — to prevent your website from crashing, look for a web host that offers guaranteed uptime.
Another handy tool that you can use for your business would be MySchedulr. MySchedulr is an appointment-setting tool that allows your customers to book appointments with you. This reduces back-and-forth email or phone tag that usually occurs when scheduling appointments. Your available time slots will be readily available to customers, and changes to the calendar are seen in real-time. With this streamlined booking system, your customers will have a positive experience with your business—therefore, improving your professional image. Automated reminders (confirmation messages, 24-hour reminders, and cancellation emails) can be personalized and customizable. Furthermore, MySchedulr can be used as a standalone solution or can be embedded into your existing website.
Of course, building an online store doesn’t mean you’ll automatically rank in search engines. You need to optimize your website to improve its visibility and ranking in search engine results. With Web.com’s small business SEO services, you’ll have a team of SEO experts to do the optimization for you with on-page and off-page SEO. This way, you’ll be able to dedicate your precious time to your business while the SEO experts handle the heavy lifting for you.
Step 5. Design your Store (or hire a professional)
Whether you want to design your own website or have a website design company do it for you, start by planning out all the elements you’ll need for your online business’s website. Explain your needs to the experts at Web.com (or if you go with another design company), and we’ll be able to help you find solutions. If you’re not comfortable building a website yourself, a good website design company can take your input and create a custom website that meets your needs.
Take a look at Quickstart for affordable custom website design services!
Step 6. Establish payment and shipping options
Providing plenty of payment and shipping options makes it easier for your customers to buy from you. When you have limited options, customers may find it inconvenient to use a payment option that they’re not familiar with. This can lead to shopping cart abandonment, lost sales, and reduced revenue for the store.
In addition, returns and exchanges happen when a customer isn’t satisfied with the product (defective item, wrong size, etc.). Hence, it’s important to establish clear and straightforward eCommerce exchange and return policies so that customers can be confident in returning or exchanging an item when it doesn’t meet their expectations.
Step 7. Kick-start your online marketing and promotion
After choosing the right niche, you should have identified your target audience now. The next step would be making a marketing plan. A marketing plan helps you:
- Identify the needs and wants of your target audience so you can reach them better with your marketing strategies.
- Ensure that you achieve your business goals.
- Set a budget for all your marketing activities so that you can spend them wisely.
- Guarantee consistent messaging and branding across all marketing channels.
- Track whether your goals or objectives are being met.
After creating your marketing plan, it’s now time to execute it. You can create social media posts, email marketing campaigns, ads, or a website copy, depending on what reaches your target audience effectively. Don’t forget to track your results as well to see if your campaign is effective or not.
Another important thing to consider is to be flexible in your methods because not everything will go according to plan. You should be able to roll with the changes as they come and go.
Step 8. Build customer trust
Exceptional customer service is the key to satisfying your customers. This means staying true to your word through and through and being authentic in your marketing efforts to gain their loyalty. If they express disappointment in your products or service, take heed of it and prevent it from happening again. If your budget allows, you can offer them consolation by giving them a discount on their next purchase.
You can also provide a customer support team to address customer needs. This can either be through email, phone, or live chat. By providing around-the-clock support, you can demonstrate your commitment to accommodate customer needs and concerns at any time of day or night.
If you have a social media presence, see to it that you respond promptly to their messages or inquiries. Continuous engagement with customers on social media can be an effective means of fostering relationships with them and building trust.
20 online business ideas for 2024
Idea #1: Launch a dropshipping business
If you like the idea of having an online store but don’t want the hassle of storing items, consider dropshipping. It’s a budget-friendly way to start a business.
With dropshipping, you can sell products online without handling inventory. When someone buys, you forward the order to another company that deals with products and shipping. This avoids upfront costs and the risk of getting stuck with unsold items. You can run your business from anywhere with WiFi, offer a variety of products, and easily adapt to new trends or switch up your offerings. It’s a flexible way to run an online store without the storage hassles.
Pro Tip: Check out the best products for dropshipping in 2024!
Idea #2: Transform your thrift store finds
Take your thrifting hobby to the next level. Find unique items at thrift stores, give them a stylish makeover, and sell them for a profit. Online marketplaces like eBay or Facebook Marketplace are perfect for selling your revamped finds. With your creativity and eye for hidden gems, this side hustle can be financially rewarding and a fulfilling outlet for your artistic flair.
Idea #3: Teach an online course
Turn your expertise into a low-cost online business with an online course. Choose a topic you love and break it down step-by-step in engaging video tutorials. Though it takes upfront effort, if your course becomes popular, you’ll keep earning as more people enroll. Use apps to record and edit your videos effortlessly. If you already blog, have your own website, or manage a video channel, offering online courses can complement your existing content and establish you as an expert in your field. It’s a fulfilling and far-reaching way to share your knowledge and make money.
Idea #4: Become an affiliate marketer
Got a loyal following online? Affiliate marketing might be a way to turn your content into cash. It’s simple: you partner with companies like Amazon, promote their products to your audience, and earn a commission for every purchase made through your unique link.
The key is choosing brands that fit your interests and audience. Once you’re signed up, incorporate subtle promotions into your existing content — blog posts, tutorials, engaging videos — without turning into a salesperson. Get creative, find clever ways to showcase products, and let your passion shine through.
Idea #5: Set up an eCommerce store
Starting an eCommerce store involves selling physical products online. You can choose to stock and ship products yourself or use fulfillment services like Amazon FBA. Key steps include selecting a niche, sourcing products, setting up a website, and marketing your store. Effective customer service and efficient logistics are crucial for success, as they help build a loyal customer base and encourage repeat business.Â
Idea #6: Stat a print on demand business
With print on demand, you can sell custom-designed products like t-shirts, mugs, and phone cases. It’s a great option for entrepreneurs and small business owners who want to offer unique products without the need to manage inventory or shipping.
Using platforms like Printful or Printify, you can upload your designs, and they’ll handle everything else—from printing to delivering the products directly to your customers. This means you can focus on creating designs that reflect your brand and appeal to your audience.Â
Idea #7: Learn freelance writing
If you have a way with words, freelance writing could be your gateway to a flexible and rewarding career. You can write for blogs, websites, and marketing materials, offering your skills to businesses and individuals who need engaging content. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr make it easy to find clients and start building your portfolio.
Begin by defining your niche—whether it’s tech, finance, lifestyle, or another area you’re passionate about. Specializing can help you stand out and attract clients looking for your specific expertise. As you gain experience, focus on networking to grow your client base, whether through online communities, social media, or industry events.
Freelance writing allows you to work on your terms, creating content that resonates with you and your audience. It’s a flexible way to share your knowledge, build a business, and earn an income doing what you love.
Idea #8: Sell digital products
If you’re looking for a low-cost way to earn passive income, selling digital products could be the perfect fit. From e-books and printables to software and design templates, digital products are valuable, downloadable items that customers can access instantly.
Start by creating something that aligns with your skills and interests—whether it’s an informative guide, a beautifully designed planner, or a useful app. Once your product is ready, set up an eCommerce platform where customers can easily purchase and download it.
Idea #9: Become a virtual assistant
If you’re organized and enjoy helping others, offering remote administrative, technical, or creative assistance can be a great way to work from anywhere. Tasks might include managing emails, scheduling appointments, handling social media accounts, or providing technical support.
Start by identifying the services you’re best at and enjoy most. Then, market your skills on platforms or set up your own website to attract clients.
Idea #10: Take up affiliate marketing
Affiliate marketing is a simple way to earn money by promoting other companies’ products. You can earn a commission for every sale made through your referral links. To get started, choose a niche that interests you and build a website or blog focused on that area.
Create valuable content that attracts and engages your audience and include affiliate links from programs like Amazon Associates or ShareASale. When your readers click on these links and make a purchase, you earn a commission.
Idea #11: Social media management
Take charge of social media marketing for businesses by creating engaging content and interacting with followers. Develop a content strategy that resonates with the target audience, design visually appealing posts, and use analytics tools to monitor and improve performance.
Market your services to small businesses, entrepreneurs, and online clients who need help boosting their online presence. Build a portfolio showcasing your work and use tools like Buffer or Hootsuite to manage multiple accounts. Engage with followers, track analytics, and continuously refine your strategies based on performance data.
Idea #12: Make handmade goods
Turn your creativity into a business by selling handmade items like jewelry, art, or home decor on platforms like Etsy. Focus on crafting high-quality, unique products that stand out. Set up an appealing online shop that highlights your work, and use social media to showcase your creations and attract customers.
By combining beautiful craftsmanship with effective marketing, you can build a successful online presence and drive sales for your handmade products.
Idea #13: Subscription box
Turn your passion into a business by creating and selling subscription boxes. Whether your focus is on beauty products, snacks, or fitness gear, you can curate a selection of items that cater to specific interests.
Identify a niche market that would be interested in receiving curated products regularly, such as beauty products, snacks, or fitness gear. Research and source high-quality products, and build a website to manage subscriptions, process payments, and handle shipping logistics.
It takes some effort to get started, but if you build a box that people love, you’ll create a steady stream of recurring revenue. Use marketing strategies like partnering with influencers and promoting through social media to attract subscribers.
Idea #14: Content creation
Share your passion with the world by starting a blog, YouTube channel, or podcast. Choose topics you’re enthusiastic about and create high-quality, engaging content that resonates with your audience.
To start a blog, YouTube channel, or podcast, first identify your niche (ex: gaming, tech, exercise) and create a content plan. Focus on creating high-quality, engaging content that appeals to your target audience. Invest in the necessary equipment, such as a good camera or microphone, and software for editing. Consistency is key, so set a regular posting schedule.
Once you’ve built a following, you can monetize your content through ads, sponsorships, and merchandise. Use social media and SEO to grow your audience and keep them engaged.
Idea #15: SEO consulting
Help businesses enhance their online presence by offering search engine optimization (SEO) services. You can start by gaining a deep understanding of SEO through online courses and practical experience. Offer SEO consulting services to businesses, helping them improve their online visibility and search engine rankings.
Focus on performing website audits, optimizing content, and building backlinks to improve search engine rankings using tools like Google Analytics and SEMrush. Network within your industry to build connections and attract clients.
By providing effective SEO strategies, you can help businesses reach a wider audience and drive more traffic to their sites, all while growing your own business.
Idea #16: Offer graphic design services
Create a portfolio that highlights your best design work to show potential clients your skills and range. Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork are useful for finding freelance opportunities and connecting with clients.
To build a strong brand presence, set up a professional website where you can showcase your portfolio, share client testimonials, and provide contact details. Use social media to share your work and engage with a broader audience.
Idea #17: Stock photos
Stock photography involves taking and selling high-quality photos for use in various media like websites, advertisements, and publications.
Begin by building a portfolio of high-quality photos that cover a range of subjects, such as business, lifestyle, nature, and technology. Platforms such as Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and Getty Images allow photographers to upload and sell their images to a broad audience.
Regularly upload new photos to keep your portfolio fresh and relevant and engage with photography communities to stay updated on trends and network with other photographers.
Idea #18: App development
If you’re interested in developing mobile apps, start by learning the necessary programming languages, such as Swift for iOS or Java for Android. Identify market needs and brainstorm app ideas that address those needs. Develop a prototype and test it extensively before launching.
Distribute your apps through Google Play and the App Store to reach a wide audience. Additionally, you might consider offering app development services to businesses that want to enhance their digital presence. This can provide an extra revenue stream while helping other companies grow in the digital space.
Idea #19: Become an online fitness trainer
Turn your passion for fitness into a thriving business by offering virtual coaching services. Provide personalized workout plans, nutrition advice, and one-on-one or group sessions online. This approach allows you to reach clients from anywhere and cater to their specific fitness needs.
Create a strong online presence with a professional website and use social media to connect with potential clients and showcase your expertise. Offering a variety of services, including downloadable fitness plans, can help diversify your income and attract a wider audience.
Idea #20: Consulting service
Use your expertise in a specific field to offer consulting services to online businesses and individuals. Whether it’s business consulting, financial consulting, marketing consulting, or another area, start by identifying the services you will offer and your target market.
Build a professional website to market your services and network within your industry to find clients. Providing valuable insights and actionable strategies will help you build a reputation and secure ongoing projects. Consider offering free consultations or workshops to attract new clients.
Ready to turn your idea into a successful online business?
Online selling has been popular for many years now. It has intensified at the height of the pandemic where face-to-face interactions are limited. But now, it has become one of the norms of doing business. If you’re not selling online today, then you’re definitely missing out on possible opportunities.
If you’re looking for a solution for your online store creation, head on to Web.com and choose an online store solution plan that works best for you. Get started today or call our representatives for more info!
