My blogging personality, if you haven't seen it already...

Honest, experienced and real are the three words I’d use to describe the way this blog is written. While writing these posts I think of my experiences while shopping online and how I’d tell my friend or family member what to look out for. I reflect on things I’ve seen and experienced, as well as heard of from other people. I think writing in first person is more interesting than third person, and provides more of a personal connection that you may not get otherwise. I write the way I think, and although my humour is often only funny to me I include it anyways. I will often write about what is, and my smart remarks throughout the post will spice up the content.

A blogger that I particularly like is Miss 604 http://www.miss604.com/. She has loads of local information on her blog but also mixes in her personality. When reading her posts you feel like she’s telling you what’s happening in the community and some of her other posts are quite personal. I’d like to think that the way I write about online shopping sites, is comparable to her writing style while still keeping in first person for a touch of personality. Maybe I should keep dreaming (LOL), but I’d like to share her writing qualities one day.

Who needs transparency when you’re shopping online?

A company that is afraid to share their policies and be open and honest about how their business operates should set off some red flags. It’s crucial that a company leaves up their positive and negative reviews as well provide a response on their social media platforms. Unanswered concerns or deleted posts lead the public to believe there’s dishonesty and potentially that the site is a scam.

Consumers often research, (which they should) before purchasing products from new sites. They will probably check the company’s site, background, Twitter account, Facebook page and blog if there is one. If there is frequent correspondence between the company and its customers that is a good sign. If the comments seem staged and there are no negative posts anywhere, chances are the company isn’t being transparent. The lack of transparency may cause a shopper to look elsewhere because they don’t know company’s integrity and commitment to its customers. 

When Kohl’s staged comments on their Facebook page two years ago they received a public back lash because their employees were stating great deals but didn’t admit that they worked for Kohl’s. While Kohl’s can be considered an established company, their actions deterred some consumers from trusting their brand and social media platforms.

Why be a Wise Online Shopper?

This blog was created for all the people who want to shop online but are weary. While working in the online retail industry you learn a lot about what works and what doesn't, as well as who's doing it the right way and what companies you should avoid. Trying a new online company for the first time can be worrisome, but hopefully with these tips you'll be whipping out that credit card with no hestitation (not sure if that's a good thing).

So why be a wise online shopper? Online retail has the potential to offer you outrageous deals and prices that you wouldn't get through traditional shopping at a greater convenince - but only if you know where to look! This means finding the deals, and knowing that the site is secure and legitmate but also understanding how the order is processed.

Stay tuned for more tips about shopping online and how to get those deals!