Want to start an online business? We’re here to help!
Today, it’s probably easier than ever to launch a business. But that also means it’s harder than ever to stand out and succeed. Many people are trying their luck online, and it’s true—it’s never been simpler to get started. In the Czech Republic alone, there are around 64,000 active e-shops. But how many of them are actually successful?
The internet is full of “guaranteed” guides on how to start a business and earn big money. Many influencers are trying to sell you their courses promising fast profits with minimal effort. But that couldn’t be further from the truth.
Running an online business is incredibly challenging, especially due to fierce competition and increasingly costly marketing. Breaking through thousands of other shops is no easy feat. So let’s explore a few key factors you should consider if you’re serious about launching an online business.
🛠️ Building a Website and E-shop
Once you’ve chosen your niche, the next step is launching your website or online store. There are many platforms offering software to build a functional site.
But which one is best for you? Definitely steer clear of so-called extortionist agencies that charge thousands for every minor tweak or feature. Unless you’re ready to invest millions into a custom solution, opt for proven platforms like Shoptet, WooCommerce, Magento, and the like.
Some offer ready-made solutions costing anywhere from a few hundred to thousands per month. These are tried and tested by thousands of e-shops, and the platforms continually improve. If you want a new feature, chances are there’s an add-on available—free or paid.
Platforms like Shoptet and Shopify typically charge monthly rental fees but allow you to build a fully functional site on your own, with their support. That means fewer headaches over system crashes or technical issues.
Semi-automated platforms like WooCommerce are better for those with some coding knowledge—or if you can hire a reliable agency to handle it (like our services!). You’ll have more freedom in your design, but you’ll need to invest more effort. These types of e-shops can cost from a few hundred to a few thousand crowns—and no monthly fees!
🎨 Design and Functionality
The days when you could create a basic site and watch orders roll in are long gone. Success now depends heavily on your site’s look and functionality. Think of your online store as your display window—you must clearly communicate what you sell and why customers should buy from you.
It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about making your site customer-friendly and conversion-optimized. It’s wise to consult an experienced business or e-commerce strategist early on to make sure your site is set up for success. There are dozens, even hundreds, of factors that influence whether a customer leaves your site—or makes a purchase.
📢 Marketing and Customer Trust
Many entrepreneurs fail because of poor marketing and weak brand credibility. A flawless marketing strategy is just as essential as building brand trust.
People are naturally skeptical, so every new shop owner must first earn trust. Trust is fragile—being transparent is key. Don’t assume that spending tens of thousands on ads guarantees instant success.
Building a brand is a long-term journey. It’s not just a pretty logo and tagline—it’s about trust, excellent customer service, and so much more. That, too, is part of your marketing plan if you want to thrive in the online business world.
✅ Before You Start: Check These Boxes
- Pick the right product (don’t sell everything to everyone—choose a niche).
- Do thorough market research.
- Select the right tech for your website.
- Create a long-term marketing and branding strategy.
- Define features and services offered on your site.
- Plan your customer service approach.
- Set a monthly business budget.
- Know your competitors.
- Ensure consistent product quality.
- Plan logistics.
- Understand your profit margins and how to manage them.
- Identify your competitive advantages.
- Find reliable suppliers—or consider producing goods yourself.
And of course, there’s much more. But these are essential questions to answer before taking your first step.
If you’re unsure where to begin, we’re here to help. We’ll gladly advise you on how to launch or improve your current e-shop. We’ve been operating online stores since 2013 and manage several projects ourselves. Feel free to use our contact form, call us, or email us—we’ll work together to make your journey through the online business maze easier and push your brand forward.
