Stepping into the world of fashion and business? Then come right in! Here you’ll be able to know the basics of starting your own clothing store! But before getting into the technical aspects, you also have to consider passion. Loving what you do will play a huge part when running a business.
That’s why it’s encouraged to pick out a type of business you love doing, maybe fashion, real estate, design and so on. Now since you’ve established the kind of business you’d like to get into, the next step is to determine how much you love it.
Getting into business is pretty volatile since the market can be unpredictable. Some businesses crash while others thrive. But the amount of passion and love you have for your business will carry you through bad times. So as long as you love what you’re doing, keep going!
Now it’s time to get into the technical part of running a clothing store. There are tons of things to consider that can be overwhelming for first-time business owners but you don’t have to worry! Here’s a list of tips and tricks most retail owners stand by, check it all out down below:
1. Having the option: On-site and online
Picking out a medium to showcase your products is one of the most important aspects to consider. Not only does it cover ‘first impressions’ but also this will give you the advantage to show people what you have to offer in the most convenient ways possible. And since people may differ in opinion when picking out a store, consider giving them options.
Here are the pros of having both an online and on-site shop:
- Having an online shop can allow your customers to shop wherever they are!
- An on-site shop can allow people to actually feel and fit the items.
- Your online shop can allow your customers to purchase your items anytime they please since it’s available 24/7.
- On-site shops provide people with instant purchases.
- Having both will widen your scope of customers!
2. Stay updated with new trends
Trends will always have something to do with what people choose to buy. That’s why it’s always essential for fashion entrepreneurs to know what’s currently trending. And since the industry is always changing it’s best to keep up with the times. Staying up-to-date with the latest trends will not only make your current customers stay but also attract new ones.
Plus sticking to outdated items simply out of comfort can potentially drive you off the market. Your store won’t be the first thing that catches people’s attention and can even effectively remove you from their options. So keep an open mind and welcome new trends with open arms!
3. Hold engaging activities (giveaways, competitions..etc.)
This is another method most small businesses use to get free advertising and stay engaged with the community. This will not only get the attention of new customers but will also make your shop come off as fun and interesting.
One of the most popular ones is giveaways and competitions through social media. How it goes is, you set criteria they can follow then you pick out a winner at random or most qualified. Here is an example of a criteria template:
“Win 5 items of your choice by simply following these steps: (1) Like and follow our page. (2) In the post’s comment section, tag as many people as you can. (3) Story our post and tag us.”
Another example:
“Post the best photo you have using any of our products and tag us! The photo with the most likes will get the chance to win a summer bundle that consists of one bikini set, one bottle of sunblock, a bucket hat and a pair of our summer shades!”
4. Insure your business!
As a starting business owner, any minor setbacks and potentially the demise of your business. That’s why it’s encouraged to get coverage and as a small business owner, you can consider getting sme business insurance. ‘SME’ means small to medium-sized enterprise that is perfect for your business. Most small businesses get this kind of coverage since it’s ‘in-budget’ and at the same time serves its purpose.
