The clothing and apparel sector is one of the fastest growing categories in the e-commerce industry. As an industry challenged by issues such as shipping delays and complicated return processes, will a streamlined order taking management help in resolving those concerns?
Online shopping is all about convenience and practicality. With only a few clicks, you’ll have access to a wide selection of items. It’s like having an entire shopping mall saved on your phone or personal computer. Because of its perks, the e-commerce industry continues to achieve steady growth in terms of market reach and revenue.
In 2018, about 1.8 billion people from around the world purchased goods online, according to Statista, a database company. The same source also found out that the global e-retail sales reached US$2.8 trillion and is expected to grow up to US$4.8 trillion by 2021.
But behind its benefits come some challenges that affect the customer experience. As compared to physical retail stores, this industry is still unripe — presenting a significant room for improvement. Among the known shortcomings or disadvantages of online shopping includes shipping problems and delays, the risk of frauds, complicated return processes, and the absence of sales assistance.
These challenges might sound like a headache to you. How can I streamline our processes? Should I do it myself or is it time to get help from the outside? What should I do to make my customers more satisfied with their transaction with us? How much do I need to invest to improve our services? In what way can I get in touch with our customers? Why are others so successful with their online business? Am I doing anything wrong?
The e-commerce industry is far from being perfect, especially today when advancements with technology happen fast and customers’ standards continue to level up.
That’s where you can see the beauty and the potential of this industry. Realizing that there’s still a lot to improve on with your processes will allow you to discover both innovative ways and practical solutions that will help you in combating your customers’ concerns regarding your product and service offerings.
A growing e-commerce segment
One of the reasons why people go online is to shop for clothes. Online clothing stores offer clothes that are unique — something that is hardly found outside. Trendy clothes are also offered, making it a go-to virtual place for millennials.
Last 2015, the clothing — along with the accessories — category nabbed the fourth spot for the fastest e-commerce category. It even surpassed computer hardware sales for the first time ever.
The year before that, in 2014, U.S. shoppers alone had spent over $320 with their clothing, shoes, and accessories purchase. By 2021, it is expected to grow into a $96 billion industry.
An online shopper also has a basket that is 25 percent larger, on average, when shopping online versus their actual purchase when shopping in-store. This can be attributed largely to the free shipping fee offer when the customer bought a certain number of items or reached a minimum amount when shopping.
Doing business using the internet is really promising. But what should you do when roadblocks come into the picture?
This is when a reliable order taking service comes into the picture.
Order taking services: Why it matters in resolving customer issues
A reliable order taking service goes beyond taking the orders of the customers.
When you implement a streamlined order taking process, it is also possible that you can solve your problems regarding shipping problems and delays, the risk of frauds, complicated return processes, and the absence of sales assistance.
How is it possible?
Order taking is one of the first customer touch points. This means that there’s a possibility that the problem was rooted there. By clarifying and understanding what the customer really wants at an early stage, and by setting their expectations properly, you can minimize customer issues.
Having someone take care of your order taking processes also means that someone can directly assist your customers while they are still in the middle of the buying process. This person can guide the customer in selecting his or her preferred style, assisting in choosing the right size, and providing additional information that is not included in the actual product description.
Order taking processes comes in the form of phone, self-service, email, and most importantly, live chat.
Problem-solvers succeed
When helping customers gain an easier and more convenient life, it is good to remember this statement made by Rachel Hogue, a customer service manager, “Imagine your customer is your best friend — listen to their concerns, be a shoulder to lean on, and then shift the focus from what went wrong to how you can help make it right.”
As mentioned, the e-commerce industry still needs a lot to improve on. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you’re one of the entrepreneurs who can spot the issue early on so you could think of a solution immediately?
Remember, in the business setting, the one who succeeds is the one who has helped countless people in solving their problems.
Make online shopping for clothes easier than what your customers think by having a reliable order taking and order management processes.
For more details about this service, contact us now!