10 Strategies For Increasing Your Online Sales

Let’s be real for a second growing your online sales can sometimes feel like shouting into the void. You’ve got the website. The products. The passion. But the conversions? Nope. It’s frustrating especially when you know you have something valuable to offer but it just isn’t translating into the cha-ching you were hoping for.

The good news? There are practical proven strategies you can start using right now to boost your online sales without feeling like you’re selling your soul. Whether you’re running an eCommerce shop, offering digital products or providing services these tips are here to help you turn browsers into buyers.

1. Optimize Your Website for Conversions

First things first if your website isn’t user-friendly you’re probably losing sales before they even start.

Think about it if someone lands on your site and it’s slow, cluttered or confusing they’re not sticking around. Your site should guide visitors seamlessly from curiosity to checkout.

Here’s how to make your site more conversion friendly:

• Mobile-first design: More than half of online shopping happens on mobile. Make sure your site looks and works great on phones.

• Clear navigation: People shouldn’t have to guess where to click. Make categories and buttons obvious.

• Fast loading times: If your pages take more than 3 seconds to load you’re losing potential customers.

• Visible call-to-action buttons: Don’t make people scroll for an “Add to Cart” button. Keep your CTAs obvious and enticing.

Pro tip: Use tools like Hotjar or Crazy Egg to see how people actually use your site. You’ll uncover little tweaks that can make a big impact.

2. Write Product Descriptions That Actually Sell

Stop with the generic robotic product descriptions. If your copy sounds like it was written by a bored robot your customers are going to be bored too.

Instead write like you’re having a conversation with your dream customer. Highlight benefits and not just features.

Here’s an example:

 “Made with durable canvas and rubber sole.”

 “Tired of sneakers that fall apart after two months? These are built to last with sturdy canvas and a cushioned sole that’ll keep you comfy all day.”

See the difference? One just lists the materials. The other sells the experience.

Use sensory words, address common objections and help people visualize how your product fits into their life.

3. Leverage Social Proof Like It’s Your Superpower

People trust people. If you’ve got happy customers don’t be shy about showing them off.

Here are a few ways to use social proof:

• Customer reviews and testimonials: Add them to product pages, your homepage or even the checkout page.

• User-generated content (UGC): Repost photos or videos of customers using your product. It builds trust and adds authenticity.

• Stats and numbers: “Over 10,000 customers served” or “Rated 4.9 stars by 1,200+ users” can nudge hesitant buyers.

Even if you’re just getting started consider offering your product to a few people in exchange for honest feedback you can use on your site.

4. Use Scarcity and Urgency (But Be Honest About It)

There’s a reason why “Only 2 left in stock” works so well because it triggers the fear of missing out (FOMO). But here’s the thing you have to use this strategy ethically. No one likes fake urgency.

Here’s how to use it right:

• Limited time offers: A real countdown timer or promo deadline can encourage people to buy now instead of “later” (which often turns into never).

• Low stock alerts: If you’re genuinely low on inventory let people know.

• Seasonal or one-time only products: Highlight the exclusivity if an item won’t be restocked.

  

Urgency works best when it’s authentic so use it wisely.

5. Upsell and Cross-Sell (Without Being Pushy)

Think about the last time you ordered fast food. They probably asked “Do you want fries with that?” That’s a cross-sell. And it works just as well online.

Upselling and cross-selling can increase your average order value without needing more traffic.

Here’s how to do it gracefully:

• Show related items: Add “You might also like…” sections to your product pages or checkout.

• Bundle deals: Offer sets or kits at a slight discount. People love getting more value for their money.

• Upgrades: If you offer digital products or services offer a premium version with extra perks.

It’s all about making it easy for people to say yes to more.

6. Run Strategic Promotions and Discounts

Yes discounts can eat into your profit margins but if done strategically they can also skyrocket your sales.

Here are a few ideas:

• Flash sales: Create short exciting promos that create urgency.

• BOGO deals: “Buy One, Get One” offers work like magic in eCommerce.

• First-time buyer discounts: Offer a small coupon in exchange for an email sign-up.

• Holiday or seasonal promos: Align your deals with key shopping seasons like Summer Deals, Black Friday or Mother’s Day.

Just don’t overdo it. If you’re always on sale people will wait for the next one instead of buying at full price.

7. Build an Email List (And Actually Email Them)

Your email list is one of the most powerful tools in your sales toolbox. Social media algorithms change, ads get expensive but your email list? That’s yours.

Here’s how to build and use it:

• Offer a freebie or discount: Get people to sign up with a lead magnet or coupon.

• Segment your list: Don’t blast the same message to everyone. Customize your emails based on interests or behaviors.

• Create an email funnel: A simple welcome series can warm up your audience and lead to conversions.

• Stay consistent: Don’t ghost your subscribers for months. Regular emails even once a week or biweekly keep your brand on their minds.

And remember email is personal. Write like you’re talking to a friend not like you’re shouting into a megaphone.

8. Make Checkout As Easy As Possible

You’d be shocked how many sales are lost at the last moment because checkout is a pain.

Let’s fix that:

• Offer multiple payment options: Credit card, PayPal, Apple Pay, etc. Make it easy.

• Guest checkout: Don’t force people to create an account unless they want to.

• Auto-fill shipping info: Speed things up by reducing manual typing.

• Be upfront about shipping costs: Unexpected fees are the #1 reason for cart abandonment.

If your checkout takes more than a minute or two it’s time to simplify.

9. Use Retargeting Ads to Re-Engage Shoppers

Ever looked at a product then seen it everywhere on your Instagram feed afterward? That’s retargeting and it works.

Most people won’t buy the first time they visit your site. Retargeting ads gently remind them of what they were interested in and bring them back when they’re ready to purchase.

A few ideas:

• Show them the exact product they viewed.

• Offer a small discount if they left their cart.

• Run testimonial based ads to build trust.

You can set up retargeting through platforms like Facebook Ads, Google Ads or even Pinterest depending on where your audience hangs out.

10. Get Found Through SEO and Content Marketing

If you want more consistent free traffic a.k.a. not paid ads you’ve got to invest in search engine optimization (SEO) and content.

Here’s how to start:

• Do keyword research: Find out what your audience is searching for. Tools like Ubersuggest, Ahrefs or Google Keyword Planner can help.

• Write blog posts that answer their questions: If you sell fitness gear create posts like “Best At Home Workouts” or “How to Choose the Right Resistance Bands.”

• Optimize your product pages: Use relevant keywords in titles, descriptions and image alt text.

• Create evergreen content: Blog posts, guides or videos that stay relevant long term can bring traffic for years.

SEO is a long game but it’s worth it. Plus content builds trust and positions you as an expert.

Conclusion

Look I know it can feel overwhelming trying to boost your sales especially when you’re doing all the things and still not seeing the results you want. But here’s the truth small changes compound over time.

You don’t need to implement all 10 strategies in one week. Pick one or two to start with. Focus on making your customer experience better, clearer and easier. Test, tweak, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Your sales will grow as you keep showing up, learning and refining.