E179: 🎓Mentoring Moments #18 | What Should eCommerce Startups Outsource, Finding a Good Shopify Freelancer, When Does a Startup Need an ERP and More!

A Deep Dive into eCommerce Mastery: Tips from the Trenches

In the age of digital retail, where online shopping carts are filled more frequently than physical ones, the journey of setting up an eCommerce platform can be akin to navigating a jungle. Yes, an Amazonian jungle, not the Amazon – though, let’s be honest, both can feel equally daunting. Enter Jason from the Full Face Podcast, our digital retail Indiana Jones, who’s been shining a flashlight on the path less traveled: the wild, wild world of eCommerce.

In his latest series, "Mentoring Moments," Jason distills gallons of wisdom from his mentorship calls into manageable sips of advice. Who knew the eCommerce world had so much in common with late-night cram sessions? Buckle up, because we're about to dive headfirst into a treasure trove of digital retail gems, guided by Jason and his mentee, Ashley. Spoiler alert: It's about to get real.

Setting Up Shop: The Shopify Saga

Ever been at a crossroads, deciding whether to DIY or outsource your life's problems? Turns out, setting up an eCommerce store on Shopify is one such conundrum. Jason makes a compelling case for Shopify being the IKEA of eCommerce platforms – largely DIY, with the occasional need for a handy friend (or freelancer) when the instructions get a bit murky.

Here's the deal: If you're a startup, sprinting towards setting up your Shopify store with the determination of a caffeine-fueled college student during finals is not only possible but recommended. It's the perfect playground for entrepreneurs to get their hands dirty – metaphorically speaking, of course, because digital dirt is way easier to clean.

But, and it’s a big but – if your store starts looking like Frankenstein’s monster due to custom mods and tweaks, it might be time to phone a friend. Or better yet, hire a freelancer with a knack for coding quicker than you can say “Liquid template language.”

Choosing between going solo or hiring a freelancer? It's like deciding between making a home-cooked meal or ordering takeout. Both have their perks, but sometimes, you just need the expertise of a Michelin-star chef (or a certified Shopify expert).

The Spiraling Web of Apps and Integrations

Ever installed an app that promised the digital equivalent of slicing bread, only for it to bread-crumb its code all over your site when you decide it's not the one? Jason's been there, or at least he's seen enough of it. His solution? A clean-up on aisle five, courtesy of a trusty freelancer, to ensure your site doesn't slow down to a snail's pace.

Remember, the goal is a sleek, fast-loading site, not a digital hoarder’s paradise. Because who wants to navigate through the equivalent of a cluttered garage sale when shopping online?

The DIY Dilemma: To Code or Not to Code

Here's a thought that might keep you up at night: Can I mess up my Shopify store beyond repair if I go the DIY route? According to Jason, Shopify is nearly idiot-proof, and that's saying something. It's like having training wheels in the digital world, ensuring you don't face-plant into the concrete.

However, if the mere thought of "code" sends shivers down your spine, enlisting a freelance Shopify guru might just be your saving grace. They're the Gandalf to your Frodo, guiding you through the perilous journey of eCommerce setup without the need for you to learn Elvish (or, in this case, code).

The Great ERP Debate

When does an eCommerce business transition from a garage band to a full-fledged orchestra requiring an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system? As per Jason’s sage advice, it's about scale. You can rock out quite a long time with the right set of tools before needing to upgrade to a concert hall.

In Layman’s terms, you might not need the sophisticated symphony of an ERP system until you're hitting the high notes of eCommerce success. Until then, a lean setup with integrated accounting and operational tools could have you playing sweet music.

Merchandising Magic: The Art of Selling Online

Finally, let’s talk about merchandising. No, not merchandise – though, very related. It's about making your products irresistible online, ensuring they're the digital equivalent of window shopping on Fifth Avenue.

Here's the kicker: Every product on your site needs to sell itself, like a mini-infomercial, minus the cheesy salesman. From crystal-clear images to SEO-friendly descriptions that would make Shakespeare jealous, your online shop should scream, “Take my money!” Or, more accurately, make your customers scream that.

The Final Word

Navigating the tempestuous seas of eCommerce might sometimes feel like you're charting unknown territories. But with Jason's treasure map of tips, tricks, and candid advice, the journey suddenly seems a lot less daunting.

Whether you're wrestling with the decision to DIY your way to Shopify success, contemplating the digital clean-up after a messy app divorce, or deciphering the enigma of ERP systems, remember, you're not alone. With a mentor like Jason, consider yourself equipped with a compass, ready to conquer the eCommerce world.

And hey, if all else fails, remember the golden rule: When in doubt, Google it or, in Jason's case, dial a freelancer. Happy selling!

To learn more, check out the related THE ECOMMERCE EDGE Podcast episode below: