3 Ways Live Video Can Supercharge Your E-commerce Sales Strategy

If you’re an e-commerce store owner looking to boost sales on your website, live video selling is a must for your sales strategy. According to a study by Brightcove, 76% of shoppers reported buying products or services after watching a video. And Vimeo discovered that 80% of audiences would rather watch a brand’s live video than read their blog! Here are 3 reasons why you need to add live video to your e-commerce strategy today.

1. Instant connections with your audience. Live video streaming has an immediate appeal that other sales strategies can’t match. It replicates the experience of shopping in a store, which has always allowed sellers to form real bonds and friendships with customers. So here’s where your energy and enthusiasm for your products can really shine.
   
   You can bring your brand’s personality and authenticity to your audience with live video streaming. Shoppers, particularly in Gen Z, are looking for connections with each other and with brands that understand them and their values. This is your chance to stand out from the crowd and build your brand in real time.
   

2. Builds community and makes your customers into influencers. When you’re selling a product live, you have a unique chance to demonstrate it and answer any questions that shoppers might have. Tap into the energy of your audience and make the shopping experience a game with quizzes, prizes, and flash offers. Talk to individual commenters and ask them about what they like or where they’re shopping from.
   
   Encourage your shoppers to share your videos with their friends and to invite their friends to join the sale. This is a fantastic way to spread the word about your brand by getting your existing customers to become brand ambassadors. You might even want to ask them to make a post and tag you when they receive their products or when they use the products. Offer a small gift or discount for sharing or posting.
   
   And don’t forget, comment selling helps keep the buzz going long after the live video is done. Your video will keep generating sales even when you’re not actively online. And customers who watch the recording of the live video will be encouraged to tune in to the next event so they won’t miss out on the fun!
   

3. Real-time data shows you what works. Driving engagement with live video selling helps you to collect real-time data on how customers are responding to your sales. Maximize impulse buys by offering “mystery items” or free shipping for orders over a certain amount—and see the results right away.
   
   Watching emoji reactions, comments, and questions come in will help you get an idea of what items and approaches are a hit with your audience. And later on, analytics reports will give you the numbers to back up your observations. With data in hand, you can refine your live video approach and improve sales for your next event.

Especially in a post-COVID world, buyers are looking to live video selling to replace the bricks-and-mortar shopping experience. And buyers are more likely to spend with a brand that entertains, amuses, and consistently delights them with excellent products and customer experience. Whether you’re selling on Facebook Live, your website’s online storefront, or on your own customized mobile app, adding live video to your e-commerce sales strategy can help you grow your business and your bottom line.

Photo by Beci Harmony on Unsplash