Starting to sell online seems simple, but there are common mistakes that can cost you time, money, and opportunities. If you are about to launch your online store or have already taken the first steps, it is essential to know what not to do.
This article is designed for entrepreneurs and merchants who want to grow their e-commerce business without stumbling over the most common pitfalls. Let’s get straight to the point with practical, specific, and real advice.
Not defining a clear niche
One of the most common mistakes is wanting to sell “to everyone.” Those who try to sell to everyone don’t really sell to anyone. Before launching your store, clearly define:
- What products you are going to sell
- Who you are going to sell them to
- Why those customers should choose you
Knowing your niche will help you better focus your marketing, store design, and communication.
Using social media without a strategy
Posting on Instagram or TikTok without a goal is a waste of time. Many new sellers focus on “being present” on social media, but without a clear idea of what content to post, how often, or what calls to action to use.
If you’re going to use social media to attract customers, make sure you:
- Have a consistent visual identity
- Post useful content that entertains or educates
- Always include a link or call to action
Not investing in a professional online store
Some entrepreneurs sell only through WhatsApp or social media. While this is fine to start with, limiting yourself to this will generate mistrust and prevent you from growing.
Having a professional online store conveys security, allows you to automate sales, and receive payments easily. It also improves search engine optimization.
Neolo Shop is an excellent option because it allows you to:
- Create your store without needing to know how to program
- Choose a plan with your own domain
- Sell without paying commissions on each sale
- Get immediate support via WhatsApp
- Try the platform free for 30 days
It’s simple, fast, and affordable.
Not having clear product descriptions
Another common mistake is publishing products without descriptions or with generic text. Buyers can’t touch or try what you’re selling, so your description should be as complete as possible.
Always include:
- Measurements, materials, colors, and technical details
- Specific benefits of the product
- Real, high-quality photos, and if possible, photos of the product in use
A good description reduces returns and improves conversion.
Ignoring the real costs of the business
Selling online has costs: platform, advertising, packaging, shipping, taxes, payment methods. Many new sellers underestimate this and set prices without taking all expenses into account.
Always calculate your actual profit margin. This will prevent you from selling at a loss and allow you to scale your business sustainably.
Not responding quickly to customers
In the online world, response speed is key. If a customer asks about a product and you take hours (or days) to respond, they have probably already bought it elsewhere.
Use tools such as WhatsApp Business, automatic responses, or web chat to speed up contact. Fast, human service makes a big difference.
Not taking advantage of data
Everything that happens in your online store leaves information: which products are viewed most, which are added to the cart, where customers abandon their purchase, which traffic channel converts best.
Not looking at this data is like driving with your eyes closed. Use tools such as Google Analytics or Neolo Shop metrics to make informed decisions.
Not building trust
Users buy where they feel safe. If your store doesn’t convey trust, it doesn’t matter how good your product is.
To build credibility from the start:
- Add a legal notice, shipping and return policies
- Show real reviews from other buyers
- Include visible contact information
- Use your own domain, not a generic one
Not planning logistics
Many entrepreneurs launch their store without a clear idea of how they will package, ship, or handle returns. This leads to delays, complaints, and bad reviews.
Before you sell, define:
- Which shipping company you will use
- How you will present the products (packaging)
- What you will do if there is a complaint
Not being patient
E-commerce is not magic. You will need time to build trust, attract traffic, and get your first sales. If you give up in the first week, you will never see results.
The important thing is to start well, avoid serious mistakes, and keep improving every day.
Key tips for getting off to a good start
- Use a stable and easy-to-use platform, such as Neolo
- Think about your ideal customer before uploading products
- Try with a few products, but present them well
- Always respond kindly and quickly
- Listen to your customers: their questions are opportunities for improvement
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What mistakes should I avoid when starting my online store?
Avoid not having a niche, using social media without a strategy, not investing in a professional store, not calculating costs well, and not having fast customer service.
Is it better to sell on social media or through an online store?
Ideally, you should have both. Social media attracts customers, but the store is where the sale is made with greater security and automation.
How do I know if I’m selling well?
Look at your metrics: visits, conversions, abandoned carts, average ticket size. Use that information to improve.
Is it worth paying for an online store?
Yes. A professional store gives you confidence, control, search engine optimization, and scalability options.
What platform do you recommend to get started?
Neolo Shop, because it’s easy to use, doesn’t charge commissions, gives you your own domain, and has fast support via WhatsApp.
In summary: Starting off on the right foot means avoiding common mistakes. With focus, a reliable platform, and fast customer service, your online store can grow in a solid and profitable way.