The Power of Taking Your Business Online (Plus 5 Tips to Maximize Digital Tools for Your Business)

In today's digital era, the online world has become an essential part of our daily lives. From communication and entertainment to shopping and banking, everything has shifted to the virtual space. With this shift, it is crucial for small businesses to adapt and bring their presence online through ecommerce. At the same time, Hawaii businesses must strive to maintain their connection to the community, using digital channels to bring convenience while continuing their tradition of local service.

What exactly is ecommerce?

Retail e-commerce sales worldwide from 2014 to 2027

Ecommerce, short for electronic commerce, refers to the buying and selling of goods or services using the internet. This has become a popular avenue for businesses to reach a wider audience and increase their sales. In fact, according to Statista, the ecommerce industry is set to generate nearly $7 trillion globally.

Why should I shift my business to an ecommerce platform?

"In today's fast-paced digital world, the importance of taking your business online cannot be emphasized enough," states Jason Lazzerini, EVP and Chief Digital Officer at Central Pacific Bank. “With technology constantly evolving, embracing ecommerce has become a vital strategy for businesses to stay ahead of the competition.”

According to Lazzerini, this shift towards ecommerce is not just about staying relevant in the market, but also about future-proofing one's business and unlocking new opportunities for growth.

“By strategically utilizing digital platforms, businesses can

• Improve customer experiences
• Streamline operations
• Tap into a global marketplace like never before

This opens up endless possibilities for small businesses to expand their reach and increase their revenue.”

5 Tips to Maximize Digital Tools for Your Business

There are numerous advantages to transitioning your small business into the online realm through ecommerce. Here are a few tips on how you can fully maximize the potential of the digital world:

1. Create a user-friendly website: Your website will be your storefront on the internet and should be easy to navigate, visually appealing and have a secure payment gateway.
2. Utilize social media: Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram are powerful tools for promoting your business. Use them to engage with customers, showcase your products and services, and run targeted ad campaigns.
3. Offer multiple payment options: To cater to a wide range of customers, it is essential to provide various payment options such as credit or debit cards, PayPal, and mobile wallets.
4. Provide exceptional customer service: With online shopping comes the need for efficient customer service. Make sure to respond promptly to inquiries and resolve any issues that may arise.
5. Keep up with trends: The world of ecommerce is constantly evolving, so it's crucial to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies to remain competitive in the market.

It’s important to remember that ecommerce and the use of digital channels is meant to add to the character or business, expanding the reach of the message and sharing the unique value proposition.

Local business can keep that flavor by honoring the values that drove their success in the first place. In Hawaii, use ecommerce to tell your story with the same depth, but in a different medium. When a local business finds that space between convenience and connection, the sky is the limit.