#1 thing you should do before pitching to retail stores…

Did you know that over 2 billion people around the world are using the internet and spend approximately 32.7 hours per week online? They are connecting with people, browsing for information and going shopping. Do you want to be part of this phenomenon?

If you are launching a new business or have a product to sell, the first thing you need to do is create a website. If you don’t have a website yet, you need to go and create one now. It will become your most powerful tool for reaching customers, stores and build community.

Unlike other forms of publicity, which can be good or bad, you have complete control over the tone and look of your website. You control what content gets added, how often it gets added and how that content is displayed. You can share your story get your name out to people all over the world. It’s also a great way for potential buyers and media to check you out! As a retail buyer, the first thing I do when I get pitched or see a new brand is go check out their website. It usually takes about 10 seconds to grab my attention. If it impresses me, I will dig further and proceed to next steps.

Five key elements that make these websites really SHINE:

1. Know your customer well – If an artist or designer knows their ideal customer well, they can create a website that really resonates with them on a personal level.
2. Take gorgeous photographs – Make sure you have absolutely gorgeous photographs of your brand. Invest in hiring a good photographer to not only take beautiful shots of your products, but also of lifestyle shots as well. You want to create a great first impression, while maintaining that quality throughout the site. Since a customer or buyer isn’t with you in person, your photographs have to just as impressive.
3. Be consistent with your branding – Your branding should be consistent throughout not only your website, but also your packaging and any promotional materials. Your logo, color, voice, everything should speak to all that your brand represents. If you stay consistent, customers and potential retailers will begin to recognize your brand no matter where they look for it.
4. Be user-friendly – Your website must be user-friendly. I understand that many people are very tech-savvy today. While it is fun and impressive to have a lot going on, it can also alienate those who don’t know how to navigate your website. Simplicity will go a long way and will also better show off your branding and products. Make all of the product information clear and easily accessible.
5. Be easy on the eye – The last and possibly most important is that your website must be easy on the eyes. You want people to want to keep clicking, and stay on your website for more than just a few seconds. You want them to want to keep coming back for more. A simply beautiful website will be your most powerful tool in striving for success.