Step 1: Why do you want to start a webshop?
Before you start setting up your own web store, it's a good idea to determine what your goal is. For example, do you already know what you want to start a webshop for, or do you only know that you want to sell something? Both answers are fine, but they'll bring you to a different starting point. If you already know what you want to sell, you can skip the next paragraph.
Step 2: Starting a webshop, what to sell?
It can be tough to explain to others: you want to start an online business, but you're not sure what to sell. Don't worry, you're not alone! The chances are high that you want to start your own webshop because you're looking for more freedom and the opportunity to earn (a lot of) money. The question is, which products will you use to make that dream a reality?
How to start a business when you're not sure what to sell?
Pssst! Are you aware that this is a really smart way to start?! Many beginning entrepreneurs want to start a webshop because they have a certain idea in their head. But, how cool that idea is, who says other people will actually buy the product?
Starting a webshop without knowing what you want to sell beforehand is a great starting position. You can now dive into products that are in high demand. Products that solve certain problems for people, for example.
Step 3: Creating a webshop
Starting your own webshop can be done with your own webshop platform or by making smart use of another well-known platform, like bol.com. Something you might not have thought about yet is that, in addition to setting up your own website and purchasing products, a lot of time will go into finding and reaching potential customers. What if that could be made easier?
Creating your own webshop or selling on bol.com?
Imagine you know what product or products you want to sell, and you can then offer them on your own spot on the internet. From your own business, but on a well-known platform where millions of potential customers are. How interesting is that? That's how selling via bol.com works.
Of course, if you'd like to start working on creating your own webshop, such as setting up the domain name and creating your own webshop design, then setting up a fully-owned webshop might be a great idea! Many successful entrepreneurs start with selling on bol.com. After successfully setting up a webshop on bol.com, they can then choose to invest in their own webshop as well.
Step 4: Knowing the tricks
The question 'how to start your own webshop?' is easy to answer when you only look at the practical steps: register with the KvK, choose a domain name, and create an online shop or sign up as a seller on bol.com, purchase products, and start selling. But the truth is that it's absolutely no guarantee that you'll actually earn money that way.
What you should also know when starting a webshop
Knowledge about marketing and sales is essential if you want to actually earn money with your webshop. Not to mention rules, taxes, and customer service. Does this sound like 'a lot'? It's not that bad! As long as you're prepared.
Step 5: What are the costs of setting up a webshop?
Setting up your own webshop doesn't have to break the bank. That's great, because you can get started quickly. But it also comes with a risk. It's tempting to start right away, but there's a good chance you'll realize later on that you're missing crucial knowledge. In fact, more than half of webshops stop within two years.
The costs of setting up a webshop
Registering your business with the KvK costs €50. To run a webshop through Shopify, for example, you can create an account for €29 per month. If you choose to sell through bol.com, creating a seller account is free. Once you start selling products via bol.com, you'll pay a commission (between 4% and 25%) per product sold.
In addition to these costs, you'll also need to consider purchase and shipping costs, as well as expenses like marketing, product photography, or hiring an accountant. While it might seem logical to cut back on these costs at first, you'll find that investing in these important aspects can actually save you more money and time in the long run.
Save on costs? Surround yourself with knowledge and like-minded people
Are you determined not just to have a webshop, but to make it a success? Then don't hesitate to invest in knowledge and a network that will help you get ahead. It'll pay off in the long run, and you'll avoid making unnecessary mistakes and save a lot of money. Running an online business doesn't have to be complicated or lonely!
