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Ready to share your ideas with the world? Start your blog → Starting a nonprofit blog is akin to establishing an online journal, chronicling your impactful journey within the world of charitable endeavors. It serves as a space where you can share your experiences, insights and occasional challenges with a supportive community of fellow advocates. Learning how to create a blog  not only facilitates connections with like-minded individuals who understand the intricacies of nonprofit work, but it also becomes a valuable platform to document significant moments and achievements toward making a difference. And with the help of a free website builder , you can launch your blog quickly without needing advanced technical skills. If you have stories to share, advice to dispense, are starting a business  or a desire to celebrate the triumphs and hurdles of your nonprofit work—consider launching that blog. Here are steps to guide you in getting started. Ready to get started? Learn how to make a website with this easy guide. Starting a blog should feel exciting, not overwhelming, right? With the Wix Blog Maker, you get everything you need to create, design and grow your blog from scratch–without needing a tech degree. Use Wix’s intuitive tools to share your ideas with the world.  Why start a nonprofit blog? A nonprofit blog connects you with fellow advocates in an online community for support and camaraderie. Share your unique nonprofit experiences - challenges, victories and lessons learned - to inspire others. Offer practical advice and innovative approaches gained from your insights. Cover nonprofit topics like fundraising, engagement, measurement and growth. Share stories of overcoming obstacles and pursuing goals to empower others in the nonprofit realm. Learn more: What is Wix for nonprofits? and nonprofit website examples How to start a nonprofit blog in 6 steps Ready to start making a website  and begin your nonprofit blog? Here's a simplified roadmap covering six important steps: Choose your blogging niche Select a blog maker Decide on your nonprofit blog’s name Plan, write and publish your blog content Promote your nonprofit blog Monetize your nonprofit blog 01. Choose your blogging niche  Select a specific blog niche  within the nonprofit sector to create focused and valuable content that resonates with your target audience. Align your chosen niche with your interests, expertise and the needs of your community. Focusing on a niche allows you to establish yourself as an authoritative and trusted source within the nonprofit blogging community. Here are five nonprofit-related blog niches and potential blog examples : Fundraising strategies and success stories Community engagement and impact measurement Nonprofit leadership and organizational growth Social justice and advocacy Volunteer management and appreciation Learn more: What is Wix Donations? 02. Select a blog maker Picking the best blogging platform  is crucial for your nonprofit blog. Opt for a versatile blog maker  such as Wix , which provides reliable hosting  and advanced security infrastructure.  Ensure that the design of your blog  complements your brand aesthetics and caters to your niche audience. Personalize the design, layout and color scheme to create a visually appealing and consistent look. Choose a platform with a diverse selection of professionally designed blog templates  tailored for all blog types . Establish a recognizable identity through branding elements such as colors, fonts and a blog logo . Use a logo maker  to craft a professional logo that embodies your nonprofit identity. Learn more : Best nonprofit website builders 03. Decide on your nonprofit blog’s name Choosing a compelling blog name  and domain name  is pivotal for building awareness, credibility and connecting with your audience. Your nonprofit blog's name is the first impression readers have of your content, reflecting your blog's identity and creating an initial perception of your focus and personality. Consider using a   blog name generator  or exploring blog name ideas if you're struggling to find the perfect name. When selecting a domain name, ensure it reflects your blog's focus, values and niche. Keep it simple, easy to spell and memorable, avoiding complex words or lengthy phrases. Some examples of possible nonprofit blog names you could use: HelpingOthers.com VisionaryVista.net ChangeBlende.com InsightfulPath.org 3 examples of architecture business and blog names we love: AmFund : With a mission of “empowering worthy nonprofits by providing much-needed unrestricted funds”, the American Fundraising Association’s nonprofit blog includes both news and blog content. With topics like, “Worst Dates to Hold a Fundraiser” and “The Hierarchy of Donor Needs to Maximize Your Fundraising Efforts”, AmFund covers a range of blog ideas tailored to their audience.  WalkNRollin with Spina Bifida :  An organization dedicated to improving the lives of those born with Spina Bifida and or affected by other life-altering ailments, this nonprofit organization has an inspiring blog sharing real-life stories and helpful tips.  I’m No Plastic Girl :  Created to inform the public of the negative impacts that plastics have on the environment, this insightful nonprofit blog covers a range of topics and includes ideas on how to reduce plastic waste. This website also includes job postings and volunteer opportunities, connecting the community in tangible ways.  04. Plan, write and publish your blog content Valuable and engaging content is at the core of a successful nonprofit blog. Develop a content calendar to organize blog topics, publication dates and themes, ensuring consistency and planning ahead. Include evergreen content that remains relevant over time, attracting readers long after publication. Consider your specific audience—other nonprofit professionals—and address common challenges, questions and needs. Authenticity resonates with readers, so share personal experiences, anecdotes and lessons learned in your journey. Create various types of content, including guides, techniques and projects that nonprofits can implement. You can read more on how to write your blog posts  to craft the perfect content. When crafting blog posts, consider: Blog format : Use short paragraphs, bullet points and subheadings for readability. Blog post checklist:  Review for grammar, clarity and accuracy. Ensure well-structured content that adds value. Ideal blog post length : Aim for a balance between comprehensive content and reader attention, typically ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 words.  Compelling blog titles:   Create attention-grabbing blog titles  that accurately reflect content and pique readers' curiosity. You might also want to think about using AI to write blog posts and how to use an ai content generator to do it. 05. Promote your nonprofit blog Effective promotion is crucial for reaching a wider audience and building a loyal readership for your nonprofit blog and the overall blogosphere . Utilize various distribution strategies for promoting a blog : Search Engine Optimization (SEO):  Optimize blog posts for search engines using relevant keywords, meta descriptions and proper formatting, such as headings, to increase visibility.  Blog SEO  strategies are a great way to build organic traffic to your blog. “Blogging is truly rewarding. Blog marketing goes beyond simply editing and publishing articles. It involves studying additional SEO strategies, experimenting with schema integration, delving into niche topics to enrich content in that specialized field and engaging in numerous trials and errors to enhance EEAT. And when, at last, your own article appears as the top result for the targeted keyword, there’s a sense of accomplishment like winning an award.” Miyuki Shimose, SEO and Marketing Blogger at   Wix Social media : Share blog posts on platforms like Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn to reach a broader audience. Engage with your followers and use relevant content to expand your reach. Learn more about blogging vs instagram  in our guide. Email marketing : Build an email list and send regular newsletters containing your latest blog posts. Email is a direct and personalized way to engage with readers. Guest blogging : Collaborate with other nonprofit blogs or websites by writing guest posts. This exposes your content to a new audience and builds valuable backlinks. Monitor key metrics like website traffic, page views and time spent on pages using tools like Google Analytics or Wix Analytics . Gain insights into reader behavior and preferences to refine your nonprofit marketing strategies . 06. Monetize your nonprofit blog Monetizing your blog  can turn your passion for nonprofit work into a source of income and help you make money blogging . Explore strategies aligned with your blog's focus: Affiliate marketing : Promote products or services relevant to your nonprofit niche, earning a commission on purchases made through your affiliate links. Display ads:  Integrate display ads from networks like Google AdSense, earning money based on impressions or clicks. Ensure ads are unobtrusive to maintain a positive user experience. Subscription content: Offer premium subscription content or online courses catering to your audience's needs. Subscribers gain access to exclusive articles, resources, video content and workshops. A nonprofit blog can become a powerful tool for advocacy and community building, providing a space for collaboration, inspiration and knowledge-sharing within the nonprofit sector. You can also create a fundraising website to gain another source of income for your nonprofit blog. A good example of a nonprofit blog Extinct is Forever:  Committed to the protection and preservation of endangered animals, this nonprofit website focuses on the threats facing wildlife and the endangered species they’re trying to protect. This thorough website includes how interested parties can get involved and help and uses a blog to share the latest environmental news. Learn more: How to make a nonprofit website for free & how to start a petition Other blog types to think about starting Finance blog Real estate blog Gaming blog Health blog Teaching blog Tech blog Mom blog Sports blog Fitness blog Beauty blog Lifestyle blog Poetry blog Craft blog Consulting blog Food blog Travel blog Writer blog Book blog Ideas for blog posts categorized by nonprofit topics: Community engagement and impact measurement Strategies for Building Strong Community Partnerships Measuring and Communicating Your Nonprofit's Impact Engaging Volunteers Effectively: Best Practices Success Stories: How Our Programs Made a Difference Navigating Challenges in Community-Led Initiatives Fundraising strategies and success stories Innovative Fundraising Ideas for Nonprofits How to Create a Successful Crowdfunding Campaign Impactful Grant Writing Tips for Nonprofit Organizations Spotlight on Donor Appreciation: Creative Ways to Thank Supporters Lessons Learned from Failed Fundraising Attempts Nonprofit leadership and organizational growth The Role of Leadership in Fostering a Positive Organizational Culture Strategies for Effective Nonprofit Board Governance Navigating Organizational Challenges: Lessons from Nonprofit Leaders Building a Sustainable Nonprofit: Tips for Long-Term Success Succession Planning in Nonprofit Leadership Social justice and advocacy Amplifying Voices: How Nonprofits Can Effectively Advocate for Change Addressing Inequality: Initiatives That Make a Real Impact Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion in Nonprofit Work The Role of Nonprofits in Promoting Social Justice How to Mobilize Supporters for Advocacy Campaigns Volunteer management and appreciation Recognizing and Celebrating Your Nonprofit's Volunteers Creating a Positive Volunteer Experience: Tips for Nonprofits Retaining Volunteers: Building Long-Term Commitment Balancing Volunteer Motivation and Burnout Prevention The Impact of Volunteers on Nonprofit Success These ideas provide a starting point, but the possibilities for nonprofit blog posts are vast. Tailor your content to address the unique challenges and interests of your nonprofit community. Pro tip: If you're a young learner or introducing web creation to a young learner, try Wix Tomorrow . This  offers meaningful learning and creating experiences at every stage of a young learner’s web creation journey, from creating a first website, to learning industry-standard skills, to making real-world impact with hands-on projects. Is blogging still worth it ? Read more with our take on blogging's current and future relevance. How to start a nonprofit blog FAQ Do I need technical skills to start a nonprofit blog? No, you don't need advanced technical or coding skills. User-friendly blogging platforms like Wix offer interfaces with drag-and-drop features, making blog creation and management accessible. How often should I publish new content on my nonprofit blog? The frequency of publishing new content depends on your capacity and goals. Consistency is key, so establish a realistic publishing schedule that aligns with your capacity and resonates with your audience. How much do nonprofit blogs make? The income potential of nonprofit blogs varies based on monetization strategies, audience size and engagement. Common revenue streams include affiliate marketing, display ads and subscription content. The focus should be on delivering value to your audience while exploring income opportunities. How do I become a nonprofit blogger? To become a nonprofit blogger, start by defining your niche within the nonprofit sector. Choose a blogging platform, create a blog name and develop a content strategy. Share your experiences, insights and advice to build a community around your blog. Engage with other nonprofit bloggers and organizations and explore monetization strategies aligned with your blog's focus. Should nonprofits have a blog? Yes, having a blog can be highly beneficial for nonprofits. A blog provides a platform for nonprofits to share their mission, stories, impact and initiatives with their audience. It helps nonprofits engage with supporters, donors, volunteers and the community at large, building relationships and fostering a sense of connection and involvement. How often should nonprofits post blogs? Nonprofits should aim to maintain a consistent posting schedule to keep their audience engaged and informed. Posting blogs regularly, such as once or twice a week, can help nonprofits stay visible and relevant to their audience. It's important to prioritize quality over quantity and focus on providing valuable and relevant content that resonates with your audience.

Ready to share your ideas with the world? Start your blog → Starting an architecture blog is a great opportunity to express your passion for innovative design, structural aesthetics and evolving trends in the world of architecture. Whether you're fascinated by modern skyscrapers, sustainable architecture or historic buildings, starting a blog  provides a platform to connect with fellow architecture enthusiasts, professionals and those curious about the industry.  When it comes to starting a business , an architecture blog can be a powerful tool for establishing authority in the architectural realm, showcasing your own design principles, construction techniques and the ever-evolving landscape of the industry. Regardless of the specific architectural business you plan to start—whether it's offering architectural services, conducting design workshops, or curating architectural events—a blog can serve as an effective way to promote and establish your business. Starting a blog should feel exciting, not overwhelming, right? With the Wix Blog Maker, you get everything you need to create, design and grow your blog from scratch–without needing a tech degree. Use Wix’s intuitive tools to share your ideas with the world.  6 steps to start an architecture blog Ready to start the journey of launching your architecture blog and learning how to make a website ? Here are 6 steps to guide you through the process. Choose your blogging niche Select a blog maker Decide on your architecture blog’s name Plan, write and publish your blog content Promote your architecture blog Monetize your architecture blog 01. Choose your blogging niche Selecting the right niche is pivotal in shaping a vibrant and engaging architecture blog. Your chosen blog niche  will determine the focus of your content and the audience you aim to captivate. Consider these architecture-related niches and blog examples  when choosing your own.  Architectural design and techniques:  Share resources for learning various architectural design principles, from classic to contemporary styles. Offering insightful tips can attract aspiring architects and design enthusiasts. Architectural trends and insights: Analyze current trends, news, and developments in the architectural world. Blog about topics like "Innovative Materials Shaping Modern Architecture" or "The Rise of Sustainable Design in Buildings." Architect spotlights and project reviews:  Showcase both emerging and established architects, unraveling their stories, showcasing their projects, and diving into their creative processes. Examples for this niche include "Spotlight on Young Architects" and "Behind the Blueprints with Architect Icons." Architecture event and exhibition guides: Create guides and recommendations for architecture events, design exhibitions and industry gatherings. Attendees often seek information about featured architects, venues and design concepts. Architectural tools and technology reviews: Explore various architectural tools, software, and technology reviews. Aspiring architects are always keen on improving their toolkit and staying informed about the latest innovations. 02.Select a blog maker Choosing the best blogging platform  is paramount in bringing your architecture blog to life online. Opt for a versatile website builder such as Wix, which provides reliable hosting  and advanced security infrastructure.  The design of your blog — including its color scheme, typography and logo—plays a crucial role in conveying your architectural identity. Choose a platform with a diverse selection of professionally designed blog templates  tailored for all blog types . A captivating blog logo  is the cornerstone of your architectural brand. It serves as a visual representation of your blog's essence, leaving a lasting impression on visitors. Use a logo maker  to craft a professional logo that embodies your architectural niche. 03. Decide on your architecture blog’s name Selecting a distinctive blog name  and domain name  is an important step in establishing brand awareness and building trust among your audience. Pick a name that resonates with your content and values, while your domain should be memorable and reflective of your blog's identity.  Tip: Use a blog name generator  if you need inspiration. Some examples of possible architecture blog names you could use include : StructureSculpt.com BlueprintBrilliance.net UrbanVistaBlog.com DesignCanvas.org Some examples of architecture business and blog names we love: Ross Bianco Architect : be inspired by the name, projects and content of this global architecture company.  Mindi H Frost Interior Design : using your own name for your business and blog can be a great way to express your professionalism, while still providing a personal touch, especially if your work focuses on personal homes. Project Darlin g: this blog focuses on topics related to interior design and furnishings. It’s branding runs true throughout its website, content and visuals.  04. Plan, write, and publish your blog content To grow an architecture blog, you’ll need a robust content strategy. Consider these tips when deciding how to write your blog posts : Blend evergreen and timely topics for diversity. Choose topics aligned with your target audience's interests and needs within the architectural niche. Offer a fresh perspective or a unique take on common architectural subjects to stand out. Address common queries and challenges your readers may encounter in their architectural studies or work. Consistency is paramount in blog publishing. Establish a regular publishing schedule that aligns with your resources and availability. Whether it's weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, a predictable schedule retains readers' interest. Tip : Including multimedia elements like images, videos and audio clips to enhances reader engagement. Images and visuals break up text, making your content more engaging and shareable. When crafting blog posts, consider: Blog format : Use short paragraphs, bullet points, and subheadings for readability. Blog post checklist:  Review for grammar, clarity, and accuracy. Ensure your content is well-structured and adds value. Ideal blog post length : Aim for a balance between comprehensive content and reader attention, typically ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 words.  Compelling blog titles: Create attention-grabbing blog titles  that accurately reflect content and pique readers' curiosity. You might also want to think about using AI to write blog posts . 05. Promote your architecture blog Promoting your architecture blog is essential for gaining visibility, expanding readership and establishing your blog as a reputable source in the architectural community and blogosphere . You can use various distribution strategies for promoting a blog  including: Search Engine Optimization (SEO) : Optimize blog posts for search engines using relevant keywords, meta descriptions and proper formatting, such as headings, to increase visibility.  Blog SEO  strategies are a great way to build organic traffic to your blog. “Blogging is truly rewarding. Blog marketing goes beyond simply editing and publishing articles. It involves studying additional SEO strategies, experimenting with schema integration, delving into niche topics to enrich content in that specialized field, and engaging in numerous trials and errors to enhance EEAT. And when, at last, your own article appears as the top result for the targeted keyword, there’s a sense of accomplishment like a winning an award.” Miyuki Shimose, SEO and Marketing Blogger at   Wix.com Social media: Share blog posts on platforms like Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn to reach a broader audience. Engage with your followers and use relevant content to expand your reach. Email marketing : Build an email list and send regular newsletters containing your latest blog posts. Email is a direct and personalized way to engage with readers. Guest blogging : Collaborate with other architecture blogs or websites by writing guest posts. This exposes your content to a new audience and builds valuable backlinks. Monitor growth : Track your key metrics like website traffic, page views and time spent on pages using tools like Google Analytics or Wix Analytics . These tools help you gain insights into reader behavior and preferences so you can refine your growth strategy. 06. Monetize your architecture blog Monetizing your blog  in order to make money blogging is achievable once you have enough content and a decent-sized readership. Some popular blog monetization strategies include:  Affiliate marketing : You can promote products or services relevant to your architecture blog's niche. Then, you earn commission when readers make purchases through your affiliate links. Google AdSense : Display ads on your blog to earn money when visitors interact with them. While not a primary income source, it contributes to overall revenue. Premium subscription content or online courses: Another option is to offer exclusive architecture resources, tutorials and insights to your subscribers. This can include providing in-depth tutorials on design principles, hosting online courses and monetizing guides on architectural trends and best practices based on your own experience and business.  Learn more: How to make money as an architect How to make an architecture portfolio Architecture portfolio website examples What to include in a portfolio How to start an architecture blog FAQ Is it worth starting an architecture blog? Whether starting an architecture blog is worth it depends on your passion for architecture and writing. While challenges exist with any type of blog, it can be a rewarding experience if you're enthusiastic about sharing your love for innovative design and architecture. What are some of the challenges of starting an architecture blog? Common challenges may include building an audience, staying consistent with content creation and navigating the competitive architectural blogging landscape for an audience. Why should I start an architecture blog? Starting an architecture blog allows you to express your appreciation for design, connect with like-minded individuals and potentially turn your passion for architecture into a fulfilling venture. Other types of blogs to consider starting: Finance blog Real estate blog Gaming blog Health blog Teaching blog Tech blog Mom blog Sports blog Fitness blog Beauty blog Lifestyle blog Poetry blog Craft blog Consulting blog Food blog Travel blog Writer blog Book blog Nonprofit blog

Ready to share your ideas with the world? Start your blog → Time to answer the million-dollar question: as a business owner, is it worth it to create a blog ? It’s no secret that starting a blog  can expand your online reach and help people discover your business. But, as with any popular marketing strategy, creating a successful  blog  is often easier said than done.  And while we don’t want to disappoint, there isn’t a simple answer to this question. To truly understand whether a blog is worth your time, you’ll need to consider various factors. Below, we address some of the most commonly asked questions about blogging and share our own learnings. Keep reading for candid tips on why, how and when blogging is still worth it.  Starting a blog should feel exciting, not overwhelming, right? With the Wix Blog Maker, you get everything you need to create, design and grow your blog from scratch–without needing a tech degree. Use Wix’s intuitive tools to share your ideas with the world.  What is blogging in 2026? It wasn’t all that long ago when Xanga and Tumblr were the “it” platforms for blogging. But throughout the years, blogging has evolved far beyond online diaries.  Now, in 2026, blogging encompasses the art of writing articles that reflect your brand’s voice and message. Blogs serve as a hub for consumers seeking information on the latest news, tech, events, life hacks—or even recipes. It hardly matters whether a blog comes from a publication, brand, organization or single author. As long as it’s interesting and relevant to a particular audience, then a blog has the potential to grow and be seen.  From the business perspective, blogs have become sales engines in their own right. “Our blog is one of our top organic traffic drivers,” says Rebecca Tomasis, Wix Blog SEO team lead, about the Wix Blog. “Our blog brings millions of first-time visitors to our website every year, many of whom either create an account with us or join our newsletter to stay in touch. Without our blog, we could safely assume that many people would not have paid us much attention or converted as quickly as they did.” Learn more: Blogging vs. freelance writing or Why start a blog? Blogging as a tool for personal branding and small business marketing Perhaps the most advantageous part about blogging: having a space to prove your expertise in front of relevant audiences. In that sense, blogging is far from one-dimensional. Blogs can be both commercial and informational, spanning content like: Case studies  How-to guides  Expert tips  Expert interviews Product announcements  Product demos  Event highlights Industry news  FAQ articles  Data reports  And more  They can also drive various business results, such as:  Newsletter signups  Demo signups Content downloads  Purchases Subscriptions Donations  Free exposure    To that end, blogging is often associated with having a strong organic search engine optimization (SEO) strategy—and for good reason. Blogs offer a space to produce fresh, creative and highly targeted content.  As Google further prioritizes “people-first” content, blogs are where brands and professionals can let their hair down and speak at greater length about the topics that their consumers care about. With a blog, you can touch on everything from “how to potty train my puppy” to “why do I need to hire [your service]?”  And if I’ve learned anything from managing business blogs for nearly a decade, it’s that having a place to build up your authority and credibility as a business is invaluable. With so many businesses vying for attention, blogs give your audience a non-intimidating way to get to know your brand and gauge if there’s a good fit. (Google, for that matter, will appreciate and often reward demonstrated expertise, too.)  Is blogging too saturated in 2026? Of course, we can’t forget to address the elephant in the room. The blogosphere  is without a doubt crowded. It’s estimated that there are more than 600 million active blogs  today. However, consider these statistics:  Websites with active blogs have 434% more indexed pages and 97% more inbound links (i.e., links from other blogs that assist with visibility, authority and overall online rankings) than those without ( BKA Content ) Companies with a blog get 55% more site visitors than those without ( HubSpot ) 82% of consumers feel more positively about a company after reading their content ( Demand Metric ) Content marketing costs 62% less than traditional marketing while generating about three times as many leads per dollar spent ( Demand Metric ) Some more food for thought: while there’s no shortage of bloggers in the world, you’re not realistically competing against all 600 million blogs out there. Maybe not even a fraction of that. Every search engine result page (SERP) is different; from an SEO perspective, competition is all relative.  “It's true that many niches are saturated. But with a unique angle or untapped sub-niche, you can still stand out,” says Rebecca. “For example, let’s say you want to write about soccer. You may really struggle to rank for a keyword like ‘soccer’ that gets hundreds of thousands of hits each month. However, something like ‘soccer drills’ that still gets thousands of searches but is far less competitive could be well within your reach.”  Competing on SERPs may, in reality, be far easier than competing on other channels (such as paid channels) where the biggest spender often gets the most exposure.  Not to mention, when it comes to SEO, you won’t necessarily be competing with the behemoths of your industry whose reputations dwarf many others. Rather, it’s entirely possible that you’ll be competing with blogs in the same weight class; by strategically targeting long-tail keywords, you can avoid ultra-competitive SERPs and still reach a relevant audience.  Is blogging still worth it, profitability-wise?  The other question we frequently get asked: How easy is it to make money with blogging ? To say blogging is easy would be a lie, similar to saying that by posting a few YouTube videos, you’re bound to get rich and become an influencer overnight.  Learn more: Blogging vs. Youtube With that said, blogging can, in fact, be a profitable venture (we can personally testify to this). It takes grit and commitment, but there are a variety of ways to monetize your blog  in the long run: Using your content to promote your own products, events or services  Selling digital products, like eBooks, online courses and reports  Participating in affiliate marketing  programs and showcasing third-party products or services in your blogs  Accepting sponsored posts  Displaying ads on your site  Gating members-only content  Learn more: Blogging vs. eCommerce The exact monetary potential of a blog ranges wildly. Some bloggers may make a few thousand dollars a month, while others with large audiences may make over $100,000 a month.  “If you're looking to monetize your blog, you need to treat it like starting a business  from the start,” says Rebecca. She adds: “There’s practically no limit to your earning potential, but you must invest time into understanding your audience, marketing your content and continuously optimizing for search engines. Blogging is part science, part art, and needs to be done tastefully to work.”  Starting a blog in 2026—and how to make it worth your time  So, how do you get started? Here's a quick overview of what blogging will entail.  01. Choose one audience to focus on  Choosing the right blog niche  is the first step to any successful blog journey. Just like how your business can’t be for everyone, your blog can’t be either.  The easiest way to start is by thinking about the community that you’re a part of, or the audience that you already engage through your business. In either case, you’ll still want to do your due diligence (i.e., talk to people and ask what kind of content they’d like to see, perform competitive research and scour other resources at your disposal to understand your audience’s needs).  Go beyond saying that you want to create a fashion blog. Narrow your audience down to the core demographics, interests and values of your target reader.  Speaking from personal experience, this will pay dividends in the long run. It’s much easier to broaden your scope in the future, as opposed to refocusing your content if your blog starts out too broad.  This is why Wix has several distinct publications:  The Wix Blog (the one you’re reading now), dedicated to small business owners and entrepreneurs seeking to grow their online businesses Wix FWD  for agency owners and web professionals  Wix SEO Hub  for SEO and marketing professionals  Each has a team fully invested in delivering content that satisfies what each of these audiences actually wants to read. Moreover, each blog embodies the language and interests of its core readers—and no two blogs share the same anatomy.  02. Pick the right platform to design and host your blog When it comes to building your blog, the blog maker  and web hosting service  you choose matter. These make up the bones of your publication. Without a sturdy foundation, your blog may be susceptible to costly risks. Think: poor website security  that leaves you exposed to hackers or other bad actors. Or, poor site performance  that leads to slow-loading pages or spotty uptime .  You’ll want to work with a trustworthy provider who can support your blog, both now and as it grows. We’d be remiss not to recommend Wix . Wix takes extra care in creating a safe, stable environment for all of its users. Plus, our platform offers easy-to-use tools for making a website , including blog templates  and an AI website builder  that can whip up a site for you in minutes.  Make sure that you have the tools you need to create an attractive website and  monetize it as you envision. (Wix, for example, has built-in marketing and analytics tools, as well as tools to manage eCommerce sales, events, donations and online bookings. You’ve also got AI-powered capabilities for SEO, emails and more to help you run more efficiently.)  It's worth exploring these blog website examples , all built on Wix before getting started with your own idea. 03. Think of a catchy blog name  Your blog’s name will be instrumental in developing a recognizable, memorable brand around your publication. If you’re stumped, try a free blog name generator . Bounce around ideas with trusted friends or connections, and check that the matching domain name is available prior to committing. You can use a domain search tool for this. 04. Brush up on your SEO skills  While you don’t need to be an SEO mastermind to get started, you’ll want to be somewhat familiar with SEO. SEO itself can get very technical and nuanced, but having a base knowledge of how it works can help you create content that has a real chance of ranking on search engines. At minimum, you’ll want to perform proper keyword research. Start by identifying terms and phrases that potential readers might use to search for information. Free tools like Google Trends or Google Keyword Planner can help at this stage (though keep in mind that Google Keyword Planner is tailored towards advertisers, so metrics regarding competition around a keyword are specific to paid search). Other popular keyword research tools include Semrush or Ahrefs.  Consider multiple factors around keywords, such as: Search volume: The amount of monthly searches a term or phrase gets  Search intent: The motivations of most searchers (e.g., are they looking to make a purchase? Researching a specific brand? Just browsing for information?)  Relevance: How important a topic is to your audience and/or brand Organic competition: The types of pages that actually appear on the SERP (will you be competing against other blogs, or are you seeing a lot of news sites and product pages rank?) Branded vs. unbranded: What words are people already searching to find your brand or brands like yours? On the flip side, what general topics are they searching to find products, services or advice that relate to your business?  Short-tail vs. long-tail: What are some popular keywords and variations of them that you could target? Create a bank of keywords that you can start targeting with different pieces of content. Keep in mind that one blog will likely rank for multiple keywords (if two terms are very similar, you could potentially rank for both in one article), and that ranking isn’t simply determined by how many times a word appears in your article. In fact, search engines may penalize you if they think you’re trying to game the system.  Here are some general best practices to keep in mind when blogging:  Incorporate relevant keywords naturally into titles, headings, body text, meta descriptions, and URLs. Prioritize high-quality, experience-based content that fully addresses a topic that your audience is interested in.  Organize your posts with header tags (H1, H2, H3, etc.) to enhance readability. Optimize meta titles, descriptions and image alt text for every blog (use AI to assist with meta tags  if you need). Link to other relevant content on your blog to spread link equity and keep readers engaged. Ensure your blog is easy to view on mobile devices. Have a distribution plan in place for your blogs to proactively drive engagement or earn backlinks to your content that prove the credibility of your blog to search engines.  Need an extra hand? Wix’s SEO features  can keep you on the right track.    05. Create a well-rounded content calendar  All in all, a strong content calendar requires a delicate balance between optimizing for SEO and providing genuine value to your readers. Your content should always provide value to your audience, whether by answering their top questions or offering entertainment (as examples).  Avoid common pitfalls like being too self-minded and only publishing content that serves to promote your brand. Or, only pumping the same type of content (similar to when your favorite TV show starts to become too redundant or predictable).  Think of various topics—as well as formats—to showcase in your publication. Experiment with blogs that cover trends, tutorials, expert tips, opinions and more. See what sticks with your audience and lean into those things.  As you create your calendar, use tools like Google Calendar or Trello to plan your content themes, keywords and publication dates ahead of time. Consistency is key to blogging. Set an achievable goal—one that you can commit to for the better part of a year at least.  06. Promote and maintain your content  Your content isn’t going to sell itself, especially not at first. “Grease the wheels” of your new publication by incorporating strategies like email marketing  and social media promotion to drum up attention around your articles.  Invite people to contribute to your blog. Ask them to write for you or participate in interviews, or conversely, contribute to their platforms. As with spreading the word about any new business venture, you’ll want to build out multiple ways to distribute your content. Note how one blog can yield multiple social media posts, emails and even videos that point back to your blog.  Behind the scenes, your investment in SEO will hopefully work its magic as well. Over time, you should see “passive,” organic traffic coming in through your optimized articles. However, make sure to also revisit old articles and update or expand upon them as needed. Avoid letting old content collect dust on the shelf.  According to Rebecca: “To date, our best-performing content is content that has existed for years. But those blogs weren’t overnight hits. They’re blogs that we’ve updated time and time again to include the freshest stats, tips and information. So, even as SERPs and audience interests change, our blog continues to remain relevant.”   How to make sure your blog stays relevant: 9 quick tips  To keep your blog fresh and relevant throughout the years, here are some tips to keep in mind:  Define a unique value proposition (UVP) . Clearly define (and demonstrate) what makes your blog different and why readers should choose it over others. Be consistent with your branding : Use a consistent tone of voice, visual style and messaging so that people view your blog as an extension of your brand. Talk about what you know. Focus on topics that you have experience in and avoid simply regurgitating what you see on the internet. If you want to delve into uncharted waters, partner with people who do know that space well. Use AI—without over-relying  on it. While AI can be a great tool for proofreading or jazzing up your work, Google and your readers are developing a sixth sense for content that lacks authenticity. Remember to always have the final word over your content; don’t simply rely on AI to churn out work for you. Learn more about using AI to write your blog posts. Stay ahead of trends. Keep an eye on trending topics as they crop up on SERPs, social media, customer convos or other forums that you’re a part of. Produce timely blogs and don’t be afraid to try new ideas, whether it’s a different content topic, format or promotion strategy. Embrace multimedia. Social media has changed how the world consumes content. Incorporate videos, podcasts and infographics to cater to diverse content consumption preferences. Focus on evergreen content: While timely posts are important, evergreen content remains relevant and valuable over time. Balancing both types of content can help attract new readers while keeping your existing audience engaged. Refresh old content:  Periodically review and update your older posts with new information to ensure that your content remains accurate and valuable. Listen to feedback : Pay attention to reader feedback and analytics to understand what works and what doesn’t. Use this information to refine your content strategy and improve the overall reader experience. Current and future blogging trends to pay attention to  The blogging landscape is constantly changing. Between the rise of “new-age” tech and shifting consumer preferences, there’s a lot to bear in mind when it comes to being a content creator today. Below are several blogging-related trends that Wix experts have already identified as things to keep your eye on. Visual storytelling The future of blogging is more than just text. In the coming years, it will be extra critical to create immersive experiences using various modes of visual storytelling. “More bloggers have been integrating social media posts and reels as visual aids in their content," says Ophyr Hanan, blog growth and SEO strategist at Wix. "Combining social media posts and visual references with your blog provides a more integrated marketing approach that can appeal to a younger audience that might not be as keen to read longer forms of content, plus it adds more flavor to the blog." Expertise According to George Nguyen , director of SEO editorial at Wix: “With Google's preference for firsthand experience in content, your editor or your content creator (or ideally both) need to be experts if you're in a high-competition sector. This is ultimately what will distinguish your blog from ones filled with AI content, both for human readers and Google." "Interestingly, SMB owners are usually the ones actually doing the work and creating the content, making them uniquely positioned," he adds, "whereas bigger companies have content teams that are more focused on the publication process than being true to the subject matter." Voice search optimization For many years, bloggers have been hyper-focused on search engine optimization. But voice search continues to peek its head over the horizon. “We still have a ways to go, but soon, voice search will be far more prevalent than it is today. We already see people using virtual assistants every day, whether through their phones, smart TVs or smart watches," says Giorgia Foscarini, team lead of international blogs at Wix. "So, it wouldn’t hurt for bloggers to hop on this trend early. Optimize your content for voice search by addressing conversational queries. Think about how people would actually speak into their devices, and tailor your writing accordingly.” Authenticity "Authenticity" shouldn't just be treated as a buzzword, but rather given its own strategy and attention. According to Judit Ruiz Ricart, blog strategy expert at Wix: "With AI-generated content taking the internet by storm, readers and search engines alike crave genuine narratives and unique first-hand experiences." "Sharing personal experiences and insights not only humanizes your content, but also adds a unique value that cannot be found elsewhere," she says. "As a result, your blog becomes a one-of-a-kind source of knowledge amidst an ocean of reshared curated content, allowing you to build trust and authentic connections with your readers while strengthening your expertise." Multichannel distribution Publishing on your blog alone is no longer enough to encourage engagement and generate traffic. Think bigger with your distribution, advises Kylie Goldstein, channels and partnerships manager at Wix. "In terms of blogging, I think that narrowing in on diversified content distribution is key. Spreading blog content across various channels, including social media, email newsletters and even more niche platforms, is the hidden ingredient for an expanded reach and better engagement," she says. Repurposed content Once a trend, now a key part of any content strategy—repurposing content will continue to remain relevant moving forward. "Repurposing blog posts into engaging content is an effective way to distribute content and drive website traffic," says Dor Cohen, distribution specialist at Wix. "Understanding where your audience is most active allows you to tailor content accordingly." "Website content can be repackaged into multiple creative assets to share across your channels, eye-catching images and videos distributed on Instagram and TikTok can capture attention, enticing viewers to visit your website for the full story," he explains. So, is blogging still worth it? If you’re asking for our personal opinion—then it’s a resounding yes. Our blog has connected us with millions of people around the world, who have not only supported us with their business but have also broadened our perspectives. Our blog is an investment, let’s not forget. We’re constantly updating it and thinking of ways to improve it. But it’s the gift that keeps on giving and something we’ll always cherish.

Ready to share your ideas with the world? Start your blog →   Starting a blog  can be one of the most rewarding moves for business owners and creators. It’s not just about putting your thoughts out there—it’s about building connections, showcasing your expertise and growing your reach. Plus, with tools like a website builder , learning how to start a website from scratch  has never been easier. But don’t just take it from us. We asked business owners and creators what inspired them to start blogging, and their answers might just spark some ideas of your own. Understanding  blogging for beginners  could be the next big step for you. Ready to create a blog  of your own? Do it yourself, on Wix.  Starting a blog should feel exciting, not overwhelming, right? With the Wix Blog Maker, you get everything you need to create, design and grow your blog from scratch—without needing a tech degree. Use Wix’s intuitive tools to share your ideas with the world.  Why start a blog? 23 business owners share their stories Here’s what 23 thought leaders have to say about how starting a blog (and understanding what is a blog ) has positively impacted their businesses.  Drive high-quality traffic to your website Appease Google’s appetite for new content Broaden keyword strategy Generate leads Reach global audiences Take a soft sell approach Humanize your business Engage with expert guests Build a connection with followers Position yourself as a thought leader Test new ideas and strategies Practice what you preach Build up your personal brand Grow a community (and attract sponsors) around a shared passion Establish a shared purpose with customers Jump into industry-wide conversations Reinforce brand values Celebrate successes Break down complex legal topics Pass on thoughtful advice Reduce the number of presale questions Answer customer questions at scale Help customers help themselves 01. Drive high-quality traffic to your website “As a digital marketing agency owner for the past 18 years, I started blogging for two distinct purposes—(1) to establish authority in my industry and (2) to create a sustainable source of organic traffic for my business. What I discovered was that blogging became much more than just a marketing channel. It evolved into a powerful tool for connecting with my audience of local business owners. The ROI has been remarkable—our blog generates approximately 25% of our new client acquisitions, but more importantly, these leads are typically more qualified because they've already consumed our content and understand our approach to digital marketing. For business owners considering starting a blog, I'd advise focusing on solving real problems your target audience faces. Don't just create content for search engines—create content that genuinely helps your potential customers. This approach has helped us maintain consistent growth even during economic downturns.” Danny Veiga , Founder, Chadix Learn more: Blog post templates How long should a blog post be? 02. Appease Google’s appetite for new content  “I started a blog to grow the SEO for my website. Google likes to see that you're continually making changes to your website, and for a service-based business like mine, writing a blog is the easiest way to update your website every month. I pick a topic in an area in which I would like to rank better for SEO, and then I write a blog on that topic, making sure to optimize the article as I write to get the best possible SEO ranking for that page. The topics I chose further support my business and the work I'm currently doing with my clients.” Sarah Kornblum , Website Designer and Developer, 2 Dogs and a Laptop 03. Broaden keyword strategy “I started blogging on my Wix site to showcase my expertise in SEO and provide valuable insights to potential clients. It serves as a platform where I can share my thought process, industry knowledge and actionable tips on digital marketing. By offering well-researched, informative content, I aim to build trust and credibility with my audience.  Additionally, the blog helps broaden my keyword strategy by targeting a mix of conversion-focused and informational keywords. This approach enhances my site's visibility across various search intents, attracting both potential clients and industry professionals.  Ultimately, blogging has become a crucial part of my marketing strategy, driving organic traffic while establishing my authority in the SEO space.” Tim Pelletier , Owner and SEO Consultant, Tim Pelletier Consulting, LLC 04. Generate leads  “The number one reason why we keep posting on our blog is lead generation. When you keep posting about various aspects of your business, particularly as it relates to your prospects, then eventually they find you. And if your content is good, then they're very likely to want to work with you too.  What's great about this is that it also helps educate your clients and set the right expectations. For example, if we blog about the process of building a website and what mistakes to avoid, then business owners looking to build a website might land on that blog post and learn about our process. In doing so, they can see our brand (i.e., the blog post author) and get a better understanding of what goes into building a website, which makes them a better client if they choose to hire us. It's a win-win.  A blog is a long game, and you have to keep posting consistently in order to see results, but I would argue that it's one of the best investments because every new blog post keeps making your blog stronger, and articles can bring leads forever.” Rafael Romis , CEO, Weberous Web Design Read more: Want to use blogging for business ? Learn how much it costs to start a blog and how to monetize a blog . 05. Reach global audiences “As the owner of a small business serving English-speaking and Japanese-speaking customers, maintaining a blog in both languages expands my digital footprint. I focus on spreading valuable, free knowledge on key terms and areas that are relevant to my customers' industries.  My company operates in a specialized field dealing with high-level science and complex content, so the blog provides a natural platform to showcase our expertise and language ability, and build credibility. Also, we create and manage blogs for scientific companies, so having a strong, effective blog of my own isn't just logical—it's essential. It demonstrates that we practice what we preach. My blog isn't just a marketing tool; it's evidence of the value we offer, showing clients that we understand their challenges and have the skills to help them succeed.” Adam Goulston , Director, MacroLingo Read more: Check out these inspiring blog examples  and use our blog checklist . 06. Take a soft sell approach  “I started a blog because it's one of the most innovative ways to own a slice of the internet and connect with your audience on your terms. A blog isn't just a space to talk shop—it's where we can break down complex ideas, share what works and show potential clients the value we bring without the hard sell.  It's like hosting a conversation, but one that keeps happening long after you've stepped away. Plus, it's a long-term play: every post invests in visibility, authority, and trust that compounds over time. A blog isn't just content—it's your voice online, and that's priceless.” Cody Jensen , CEO and Founder, Searchbloom 07. Humanize your business “Blogging is one of the best ways to humanize your business and connect on a real, meaningful level with both customers and potential customers alike.  While it can become a powerful acquisition vehicle for new customers, the real payoff of creating and sharing helpful content for your audience is that it builds memorable relationships by providing value to them first. When you give freely (in the form of useful content), it'll establish trust with your potential customers.  Then, when they're ready to buy, you'll be the obvious choice. I've grown my blog to 500,000+ monthly readers over the past 10 years, and to this day, the biggest benefit I experience is the quality of relationships I've built with thousands of people. Any time I release a new product, I have a built-in audience who sign up because they trust me, and that's the true benefit of blogging consistently.” Ryan Robinson , Blogger and Founder, RightBlogger 08. Engage with expert guests  “When I first started, I knew the easiest way to get out there was by being more visible. [I therefore interviewed] people in my field [and showcased those conversations on my blog].  Though I didn't get immediate results, two months later I got my first client, and it was the first time I made money online. Even my website traffic grew by 10% due to the high-profile business owners I interviewed. I made my first $250 because I broke all the rules and interviewed people with absolutely no list.  My advice is to start a blog and interview people in your niche, with or without any experience. You would be amazed at the response. Go out there and post about your experiences, and write on Facebook what you can offer.  Join Facebook groups, post about your website and invite people to ask you questions regarding the people you interviewed. Remember, our experiences all bring something unique to the table. Use that to secure your first interview. Let them know who you are and why you want to interview them. The most important thing is to tell them how they will benefit from the interview. Your voice, stories and experiences have made you who you are. They have shaped you, and your blog is a reflection of who you are.” Vanessa Gowora , Founder and CEO, Vanessa Gowora Learn more: Promote your blog on Facebook Guide to guest posting 09. Build a connection with followers  “A blog is a natural extension of our brand [at Bowen Media]. It helps us prove that we are thought leaders in the digital marketing and web design industry by sharing answers to the questions and pain points of our readers.  From a pragmatic standpoint, blogging is also one of the SEO techniques that we utilize. Our goal is to get organic traffic to our website through consistent, high-quality content that matches our targeted audience’s searches. Over time, this increases exposure and leads—and strengthens our online reputation. In a short story, we think of our blog as a kind of multifunctional instrument: a way to inform, engage and build our brand authority in the industry. When you’re providing answers, telling a story or even creating a conversation, blogging is the most powerful way to engage with your followers.” Dan Bowen , Founder, Bowen Media 10. Position yourself as a thought leader “Through my blog, I've been able to share my expertise, insights and experiences with a wider audience, positioning myself as an authority in my industry. By consistently delivering valuable and engaging content, I've cultivated a loyal following of readers who appreciate my unique perspective and turn to me for guidance. Moreover, when people resonate with your ideas and values, they are more likely to become loyal supporters and advocates for your brand.” Janelle Warner , Co-Director, Born Social 11. Test new ideas and strategies “We launched a few blogs—not to chase rankings or showcase expertise, but to use them as experimental sandboxes. They're where we test drive ideas and experiment with content strategies.  For example, we recently tried a pillar-cluster [SEO] strategy on one of our blogs by publishing a comprehensive guide that covers a niche topic and is supported by multiple related articles.  Once the internal linking and content were in place, we saw a steady uptick in organic traffic within weeks. That's proof our approach works—even on a smaller, less-established domain—let alone on our clients' domains, which are five to ten times bigger than ours. This hands-on experimentation gives us confidence backed by data. When we share strategies with our clients, it's not guesswork. We have results that we know how to replicate. We validate the ideas and scale what works to deliver measurable impact.” Kinga Edwards , CEO, Brainy Bees 12. Practice what you preach “I started a blog because I wanted a space to explore ideas, dive into research and share recommendations with my audience. I wanted a place that I had more control over, and where my voice could really shine through. I also work as a writer—blogging has given me an opportunity to practice, test and hone my writing in a place all on my own.” Lex Stewart , Career Coach, Alexandria Stewart Coaching 13. Build up your personal brand  “For a bit of background: my first business was a travel blog, and my second business is a content strategy and writing service, so I've always been blogging either for my own business or for clients.  Earlier this year, I decided to launch a blog for my personal brand. Business blogs are always highly focused on the business's core offer and target audience, while business owners are multifaceted people with a variety of interests and, oftentimes, knowledge that goes well beyond what is purely related to their main business .  Since my biggest lead generator over the years has consisted of the personal relationships I've built, I wanted to expand on that and allow people (and potential clients) to get to know more of the person behind the business through a separate blog.” Sofie Couwenbergh , Content Strategist and Writer, Let Me Write That Down for You 14. Grow a community (and attract sponsors) around a shared passion  “I've always loved sharing my experiences with others. Starting a blog was a natural step to combine my love for travel with my desire to inspire and inform.  Through my blog, I've been able to document my journeys, from backpacking through Southeast Asia to exploring the bustling cities of Europe. I've shared personal stories, travel guides and destination reviews, all to inspire others to embark on their adventures.  Beyond sharing my experiences, my blog has also become a platform for me to connect with like-minded individuals. By engaging with my readers through comments, social media and email, I've built a supportive community of travelers who share my passion.  One of the most rewarding aspects of blogging has been the opportunity to collaborate with brands and businesses that align with my values. These partnerships have allowed me to create sponsored content, host giveaways and offer exclusive discounts to my readers.” Danielle Hu , Founder, The Wanderlover Learn how to start a travel blog  of your own.  15. Establish a shared purpose with customers “Our blogs started because we wanted to build a community around our brand. At the heart of this idea was the realization that people crave connection and support, especially when they feel aligned with a mission or a shared purpose. Publishing blogs regularly nurtures that sense of community among our community members. As a platform created by creators for fellow creators, this was our way of offering value to our users. Whether it's practical tips or interesting insights, the goal is always to give our customers something they can apply in growing their own newsletter. I believe that when you offer value consistently, customers will trust you more and come back for more.” Edward White , Head of Growth, beehiiv 16. Jump into industry-wide conversations  “Each blog post acts as a new web page, providing an opportunity to rank for relevant keywords and attract potential customers who are searching for solutions to their problems.  But beyond just the marketing benefits, blogging has also been a rewarding personal journey for me. It has allowed me to connect with like-minded individuals, engage in meaningful conversations and even forge valuable business relationships. It's a platform where I can share my passion, inspire others and contribute to the growth and development of my industry.  If you're a business owner considering starting a blog, I can't recommend blogging enough. It's a long-term investment that will pay dividends in terms of brand awareness, credibility and customer acquisition.  Just remember to stay consistent, provide value and let your authentic voice shine through—that's the key to building a successful, engaging blog that truly resonates with your audience.” Gauri Manglik , CEO and Co-Founder, Instrumentl 17. Reinforce brand values “Blogging allows me to showcase the personality and values of my brand. Discussing topics that are close to [my] heart, like minimizing household waste or making the most out of products, helps strengthen the bond [with potential customers].  I want to pack each post with valuable information, which makes my blog an integral part of my business strategy. This method not only drives traffic but also boosts engagement and spikes conversions. The richer the content I create, the more you'll want to come back and share it, which in turn helps broaden my audience.” Dan Steiner , Co-Founder, Good Laundry 18. Celebrate successes  “At We Create Tech, we started our blog to connect with youth, parents, young adults and supporters who are passionate about building brighter futures through technology. Our blog serves as a digital ‘brag book’ to celebrate our wins and showcase the success stories of our students.  In addition, our blog is a key tool for outreach. By boosting our SEO, it helps us reach more people, build awareness and ensure that anyone searching for technology tools, educational resources or impactful stories can find and connect with We Create Tech. It's our way of leaving a digital blueprint—tracking growth, celebrating milestones and inspiring others—one update, one resource and one success story at a time.” Shana Digital Sanders , CEO, We Create Tech, Inc 19. Break down complex legal topics “I started our legal blog because I saw it as an opportunity to bridge the gap between legal complexities and the practical concerns of families facing challenging situations. Family law can often feel overwhelming and confusing for those navigating it, and we wanted to create a resource that explains these issues in a clear, approachable way.  The blog allows us to address common questions, share insights and provide valuable tips that empower individuals to make informed decisions about their cases. While the goal is to inform those with questions about their legal situation, it's also not a bad marketing tool. Many potential clients appreciate our willingness to share our knowledge and end up hiring us when the time comes for legal assistance.” Duane Coker , Attorney and Founding Shareholder, Coker, Robb, and Cannon, Family Lawyers 20. Pass on thoughtful advice “As a career consultant, I help my clients find and utilize their voices. When I first started out as a coach, I also had plenty to say and wanted to use a resource that would enable me to share my knowledge easily; that's where my Wix blog helped. Wix has provided me with an easy-to-use platform that integrates with the rest of my website.  Utilizing keyword research, I rank high in search engines and bring new customers to my website daily. (I have one post that has 4,000 views and counting.) Starting a blog and gaining traction takes time, but it's a great feeling when your words start reaching others and help them to move forward with both their careers and lives.” Emily Maguire , Entrepreneur and Career Consultant, Reflections Career Coaching 21. Reduce the number of presale questions “I started my blog with the goal of attracting clients and showcasing my expertise. By positioning it as both a portfolio and a resource to answer common presale questions, I ensured it naturally aligned with client needs, making it easier to build trust and drive business growth. After my blog was set up, the number of presale questions reduced significantly, making it easier for me to negotiate.” Shivam Sharma , Founder, Blogging Capital 22. Answer customer questions at scale  “One of the main reasons I started was to solve a problem my customers often faced. They'd ask me similar questions repeatedly—how-to guides, tips and industry trends. Instead of answering individually every time, I decided to compile that knowledge into blog posts. This saved me time and offered my customers a resource they could refer back to any time. Over time, this also built my reputation as an expert in my field, which naturally brought in more clients.  Blogging is a long-term strategy. Unlike social media posts that get buried, a well-written blog can keep bringing traffic to your site for months, even years. That consistency can make a big difference in growing your business.” Ankit Prajapati , Owner, SEO Consultant Ankit 23. Help customers help themselves “We've been running our blog for over 15 years. It started as a way to answer questions we received through email. When customers asked a question, we would reply and also share a link to a blog post for more detailed information on the topic. Over time, the blog has grown, and now we aim to publish at least one post a week to help attract potential customers to our products.” Evan McCarthy , President and CEO, SportingSmiles Why start a blog: our recap Establish yourself (and your expertise) as an expert in your field: If you're a consultant, sharing articles, insights and thoughts on topics related to consultancy, can help showcase your knowledge and experience both to your peers within your industry but also to future clients. Build your own personal brand : This is essential in some industries, especially service for service businesses — when working directly with people, your personal brand matters to establish trust and a blog is a very impactful but non forceful way to do that. This also means letting your personality, ideas and thoughts reveal themselves through your blog posts. Engage with your audience : For many a blog is a great way to engage readers within your audience directly. Encourage the to comment on your posts, or to contact you with their own thoughts and insights. Diversify your income: Blogs can be monetized, whether through affiliate marketing, sponsored posts or directly selling your products and services. You don't always need huge amounts of traffic to make money from a blog, as long as you have a dedicated and intentional audience. How to start a blog - after the why, comes the how Once you're sure starting a blog is for you (and your business), you'll need to figure out how to go about getting it off the ground. Here are some quick tips for doing just that. Choose a blog maker: This is by far the easiest way to get a blog up and running. Opt for someone like Wix, which includes plenty of free website templates and blog specific templates to choose from. Using a blog maker also means you get secure hosting and a domain name too. With Wix you can create a blog for free, or opt for a paid plan which will allow you to customize and register your domain name for no extra cost. Design your blog : Think about the structure of your pages, use of images and other media, as well as your color scheme. Consistency is key and essential to getting your branding just right. Plan your content strategy and schedule: The key with blogging is publishing consistency and a great content schedule. Think about what you want to write about, what your audience wants to read and how it all comes together in a cohesive strategy that can grow with your readership. Promote your blog: Great content is, well great but if no one reads it, does it even matter? As you figure out how to start and launch your blog don't neglect to think about how you will promote and market it. Blogs need traffic and there are a number of ways to generate this, from SEO, to social media to paid ads. Why start a blog FAQ How can a website builder help me start a blog? A website builder simplifies the process of creating a professional blog, even for beginners. With intuitive  drag-and-drop  tools, customizable templates and built in blogging tools , you can focus on writing content instead of worrying about technical details. Some platforms even offer AI website builders  to help you create blogs or generate blog name ideas . This makes it easier than ever to start a blog, whether you’re sharing how to make money as a food blogger  or tips on other types of blogs . Why does your business need a blog? A blog is an essential tool for any business looking to grow their website and connect with their audience. Consistently posting valuable and relevant content can help establish your business as an authority in your industry, improve search engine rankings and drive organic traffic to your website. A business blog also helps to build trust with customers by providing solutions to their problems and grow community engagement. If you’re wondering if blogging is still worth it , the answer is a resounding yes—it remains one of the best ways to reach a wider audience. Also, learning how to promote your blog  can further amplify its impact, making sure your content reaches the right readers.  How does a blog benefit a small business? For small businesses, a blog is an affordable way to attract new customers and stand out from competitors. It provides a platform to share updates, promote products or services and engage directly with your audience. Blogs also improve SEO by targeting specific keywords, which help potential customers discover your business online.  Learn more: Types of blogs Blog niche ideas What is the biggest advantage of business blogs? The biggest advantage of business blogs is their ability to generate long-term, organic traffic. Unlike paid ads, blog posts can continue to bring visitors to your site for months or even years after they’re published. This evergreen content boosts brand awareness and increases conversions by attracting readers who are already interested in your products or services. Blogs additionally provide a platform for repurposing content into social media posts, AI blog posts  or newsletters, maximizing your content’s impact.  Learn more: Blogging mistakes

As bloggers, who blog on Wix our answer is a resounding yes. But in the interests of neutrality, we've put together some of the main reasons why we think Wix is good for blogging, so you can make up your own mind when it comes to starting your own blog . Before you start exploring the pros and cons of different blog makers , it's important to understand the type of blog you plan to start and your goals for it. These two factors might impact which blog creator you choose and if Wix is the best option for you. Our blog is a marketing asset with several goals. We have a broader mission that revolves around educating and informing but also more precise goals, such as bringing more people to Wix. For these needs, we can say Wix is great for blogging and here's how. Learn more: Why use Wix? , How to use Wix   Why Wix is good for blogging Many of Wix's blogging features make it a great for beginners and more experienced blog owners alike. We've ben running our blog a long time, more than ten years and counting but even if you're just starting out there's plenty to make running a blog easy. Explore these blog examples , all built on Wix, for further inspiration. 01. User-friendly interface and templates Wix's drag-and-drop editor simplifies the process of designing and managing a blog, making it accessible to anyone, even those without technical or design experience. You can also choose from a variety of customizable blog templates tailored for different blogging niches, which makes it easy to setup and start regardless of your blog type. Personal blog templates Food and travel blog templates News and business blog templates Sports and wellness blog templates Fashion and beauty blog templates 02. Integrated blogging features With the Wix blog editor you can easily write, edit and publish posts on your site. You can start a blog as a standalone site, or integrate it seamlessly into your website. Some must-have blogging features include being able to schedule posts, adding categories and comment management. Other stand outs include being able to manage your blog from anywhere, via the mobile app and being able to add collaborators, editors and managers to your blog each with their own pre-set level of access. 03. SEO tools Wix offers built-in SEO tools that help improve your blog's visibility on search engines. You can customize meta tags, URLs and alt text for images, which are some good best practices that should be implemented on your blog. Our blog has a strong SEO strategy behind it, its how we generate most of our traffic and so being able to implement on-page SEO best practices easily from within the blog editor saves us a lot of time — which in turn means we can use that time saved to focus on the things that make more impact, keyword research, our content strategy, content updates to improve rankings, data tracking and analysis. 04. Mobile-friendly by default Blogs created with Wix are automatically optimized for mobile devices, ensuring that all content is accessible across devices. We know we do most of our blog reading from mobile, as do most of our audience, its another thing of our mind, knowing that our blogs are mobile-friendly from the minute they're published. If your site isn’t mobile-friendly, it’s not search-friendly. At Wix, we design with mobile performance in mind—because great SEO starts with a seamless experience on every device. Sharon Hafuta, Wix Blog Editor. Learn more: How to make a mobile-friendly website 05. AI-powered content creation Wix has AI tools that help with generating blog content. These tools can suggest topics, create draft and even generate images based on descriptions, streamlining the entire content creation process if you need it. You know everyone is using it, we know everyone is using it. There are many ways to use AI content creation to build and scale a blog and how much you rely on it, depends on the size of your blog, its goals and audience. No judgement from us, AI content creation is revolutionizing how we scale blogs. With Wix's tools you can opt in or out from using them, depending how much or often you need them. But it's good to know they're there for when you need a helping content hand. Learn more: How to use AI to write blog posts 06. Built-in analytics Wix's analytics helps you better strategize and manage your blog. You can easily see how much traffic you get and from where. You can also understand how long your readers spend on a blog post, as well as other important metrics that impact how well you blog. For us traffic is one of our main KPIs, so being able to see clearly how much traffic we get and from which segments — whether organic or paid and from which specific source, be it Google or Facebook, is what makes Wix good for blogging for us. 07. Monetization options If you're a blogger looking to eventually monetize your blog , Wix blogging provides features like integrated e-commerce capabilities , which means you can sell products or services directly from your blog. You can also run display ads on your blog, offer subscriptions and sell online courses all from your Wix site. Learn more: How to make money blogging 08. Free plan You can start a blog for free with Wix. Or upgrade to a Wix paid plan with your blog and you'll also be able to choose a custom domain and remove the Wix branding from your site. Learn more: How much does it cost to start a blog 09. Robust site infrastructure Behind every blog built on Wix is their enterprise-grade website infrastructure . What does this mean? A secure platform : Wix's world class experts and enterprise-grade security system work 24/7 so your audiences' information will always be kept safe and secure. Learn more about Wix's website security. Reliable web hosting: With free website hosting on a worldwide CDN , your site is automatically backed up and will be able to handle any situation, from traffic spikes to outages, so you’ll always be up and running. Performance first: With a performance-first culture, Wix's priority is providing the best user experience for you and your visitors, with faster loading sites that perform great on any device. Learn more about Wix's website performance . What does this really mean? You can start and run your blog without having to worry about if your site is secure, will it always be live and do readers have a positive experience on the page. All of that is a given with a Wix blog. Learn about creating a website for free . How to get started blogging with Wix? Create a Wix account Start with your blog design (from scratch or with a website template) Choose a blog name (and opt for a custom domain if you think you need one) Write your first blog post (and then start a schedule for consistent posting) Review and publish Promote your blog Repeat Is Wix good for blogging? FAQ Can I customize my Wix blog? You can and here are just some of the ways you can do it: Layouts : Choose from various blog layouts. Design elements : Customize fonts, colors and backgrounds Post display : Decide how posts are displayed, including featured images and excerpts. Can I create a multilingual blog on Wix? With Wix multilingual, yes you can create a blog in a wide range of languages. Learn more about how to create a multilingual website Is Wix blogging suitable for beginners? There are many features that make the Wix blog maker suitable for bloggers of all levels, including beginners. You can create a blog from templates if you're really new to designing a blog which means you don't need any design or technical knowledge or experience.

Blogs, forums and websites are three popular online platforms that can serve different purposes for your business. Each has unique features and benefits that can help you connect with your audience, share information and build your brand. A blog is an online platform for sharing personal thoughts and information, a forum is a discussion space for online communities and a website is a collection of web pages accessible on the internet. Understanding the differences between these platforms is important for any business owner or website manager. It allows you to make informed decisions about where to invest your time and resources to achieve the best results - with your branding, marketing and potentially sales too. What is a blog? A blog is a type of website where content creators or businesses, can publish new content regularly in an informal or conversational style. The primary purpose of a blog is to share information, thoughts or experiences with an audience. These blog examples are a great way to be inspired. It's an online platform that encourages interaction through comments, guest posts and social shares. Start a blog today with the Wix blog maker . Common features of blogs Regularly updated posts : Blogs thrive on fresh content that's posted on a consistent basis. Categories and tags : These help organize content and make it easier for readers to find related posts. Author profiles : Information about who is writing the blog posts, which can help personalize your blog and build authority through authorship. How businesses benefit from having a blog Blogs can be a powerful marketing and branding tool when done well. Other benefits of blogging for business include: Establishing authority : By sharing expertise in your field, you can become a go-to resource. This can also help keep readers coming back to your brand, for your quality content first and then your product or services. Improving SEO : Regularly updated content can help improve your site's visibility on search engines. The better you rank in search results, the more potential organic traffic you can generate to your blog. Building relationships : Engaging with readers through comments can create a community around your brand. You can also use a blog for networking within your industry by collaborating with other businesses on guest posts. Driving traffic : Compelling content can attract visitors to your site via search or other channels, which may lead to increased sales or conversions. What is a forum? A forum is an online discussion site where people can hold conversations in the form of posted messages. It's a place for sharing knowledge, asking questions and discussing topics of mutual interest. Forums are typically structured around communities and are a primary role online for fostering group communication. Common features of a forum Threads : Discussions are organized into threads, each focusing on a different topic or question. User profiles : Members have their own profiles showing their activity and contributions to the forum. Moderation : Forums often have moderators who oversee discussions and enforce rules. Sub-forums : Larger forums may be divided into sub-forums to cater to specific subjects or interests. Start a forum and build your own community with Wix Groups . How businesses benefit from having a forum Community forums move in and out of fashion, depending on how users behave online. In 2024, they're having a resurgence as Google starts to rank high profile forums (Reddit, Quora) in search results. Forums are also a great way for businesses to control their own online space, without being at the whim of search engine or social media algorithms. Customer support : A forum can serve as a platform for customers to help each other, reducing the need for large, round the clock customer service teams. This can be helpful if you're starting your business small. Market research : You can gain insights into what your audience thinks about your products or industry trends. Community building : Forums can create a sense of community among users, leading to increased loyalty to your brand. Content generation : User-generated content in forums can provide valuable content for other marketing efforts. What is a website? A website is a collection of related web pages under a single domain name, typically produced by a single person or organization. It provides general information about your business, allows you to showcase products or services and offers ways for people to get in touch with you. Learn how to create a website for beginners . Learn more: Small business website statistics and how to build a professional website Types of websites There are a few main types of websites including: E-commerce sites : Where customers can browse and purchase products online. Informational sites : These provide educational content on various topics, also blogs falls under this category. Portfolio sites : Used by artists and professionals to display their work. Corporate websites : Offer detailed information about a company's operations, team and values. May also be referred to as an enterprise website. Benefits of having a website for your business There are many benefits to having for your business . These include: Visibility : Having an online presence is essential for being found by potential customers. Credibility : A professional website can establish trust and legitimacy for your business. Marketing : Websites are crucial for online marketing strategies , including SEO and content marketing. Sales : For many businesses, a website acts as the primary channel for generating sales. Isn't a forum part of a website? It's common to see forums as standalone platforms but they can also be an integral part of a larger website strategy. If you're creating a business website and considering whether to add a forum or not, it's worth considering that adding a forum to your website can enhance user engagement by providing a space for discussion and interaction. It can also act as a self-service support center where website users help each other. Forums can complement your website by adding depth to the user experience. They encourage community participation and can keep visitors returning to your site for more of this interaction. When integrated thoughtfully, forums can be a powerful tool in maintaining an active and informative online brand. Blogs vs forums vs websites in comparison Understanding the structure, audience interaction and content style of blogs, forums, and websites is key to utilizing them effectively. Each platform serves a unique purpose and offers different benefits for your business. Structure Blogs are typically organized in reverse chronological order with the latest posts appearing first. Forums are organized into categories and threads that allow for topic-specific discussions. While website have a more static structure with pages organized by content type or purpose. Audience interaction In blogs interaction occurs mainly through comments on blog posts. Whereas forums are designed for peer-to-peer interaction within threads and posts. On websites interaction can vary, ranging from contact forms to live chats or user accounts. Content style The content style of blogs is conversational and personal, it often reflects the author's individual voice even on business blogs. Forums contain user-generated content that varies widely based on the community's nature and rules. Websites often take a professional tone, content is usually more formal and can be informational or transactional. Business goals When it comes to business goals, blogs are an effective part of content marketing and establishing thought leadership in your industry. Forums on the other hand are great for building a community around a service or product and offering peer-to-peer support. Websites are necessary for providing an official online presence that showcases your brand and offerings. Audience preferences When it comes to the different audiences, blogs attract readers interested in learning, staying updated or being entertained. On the other hand, forums appeal to users who want to engage in discussions, seek advice or share experiences. Websites serve potential customers looking for specific information about your products or services. Strategies to grow a blog To promote your blog and keep your audience engaged, you'll need to employ number of effective strategies. Here are some tactics that can help you achieve success with your blogging efforts: Identify your niche Focus on a specific topic that you know and love and go deep with it. If it's a topic you know, chances are you know the audience inside out as well. Specialize in an area that interests you and meets the needs of your audience. For Hanna Kimelblatt, Blogger and Growth Marketing Expert at Wix.com , Just as important as what your audience wants to read, it’s finding a topic you enjoy writing about. Blogging can be one of the most fun activities you can do, but it could also feel like a chore if you’re not passionate about its content. Turning something you love and know a lot about into blog posts is a great strategy to attract readers: they’ll come for the knowledge, but they’ll stay for your authentic outlook and first-hand experiences. Create and publish quality content Valuable content is important for blogs. This includes useful information, insights and updated or unique information that resonates with readers. You'll need to publish posts regularly to keep your audience coming back for more. Promote your blog Share your posts on a range of social media platforms to reach a wider audience. If you can add comments to your blog and engage with readers there, it can be a great way to foster a community. Blogs often perform well in search engines, which can be an effective way to generate traffic to your blog, including new readership. Strategies to grow a forum Creating an active and engaging forum requires thoughtful methods that encourage participation and foster a sense of community. Here are some tactics to help you build a thriving forum: Encourage user participation Make sure new members feel at home and are encouraged to participate, this means you'll need to moderate all comments to make sure your space is respectful for all participants. You can also recognize contributions from members to motivate continued engagement. You can offer awards systems and prizes to do this. Moderate effectively Establish clear guidelines and rules for behavior to maintain a positive atmosphere. Regular moderation also helps prevent spam and resolve conflicts, keeping your forum healthy. Provide valuable content Expert Q&A's are an effective way to engage participants and create content valuable to your members. You can invite specialists to answer questions in your forum, adding value for your members. Consider providing content that can't be found elsewhere to attract and retain users. Strategies to grow a website To build a website that not only attracts visitors but also converts them into customers or followers, you need to focus on user experience and conversion optimization. Here are some tips to help you understand how to design a website that does just that: Great user experience Your website should be easy to navigate, with a clear hierarchy and menu structure. Users must be able to find what they want easily and quickly, which means your website must make sense to them and the way in which they will explore it. Page speed and load times are important. A fast-loading website keeps users from leaving out of frustration. It also encourages them to take actions on your site as you want them to - sign up for something, convert. This also means your site should be mobile-friendly. Update content regularly Keep your content fresh and relevant to encourage repeat visits. This includes your branding, as well as specific product, service and contact information. Guide users towards the actions you want them to take, whether it's making a purchase or signing up for a newsletter. You should always test, review and improve your call to actions as well. If they work, how can they be replicated in more places; if they don't work, how can they be improved to work. Building trust with your visitors A website is a good place to share customer reviews and success stories to build credibility around your brand and offerings. From your site you should make it easy for visitors to reach out with questions or support needs.

Turn your ideas into a website you love with Wix →   We see a familiar pattern with small business websites , and small business website optimization often misses the mark. The owner puts in real work. The site looks fine. It even feels professional. Then it goes live, and the leads don’t appear as expected. That gap usually comes down to one thing. Clarity. Visitors don't land on your site ready to study it. They land with a job to do. They want to decide if you are the right fit, and they want to decide quickly . The Nielsen Norman Group  has found that first impressions can form in about 50 milliseconds. We also found that users often leave pages in 10 to 20 seconds, and if you want attention for longer, you need to communicate your value proposition within ten seconds. So yes, we mean it when we say ten seconds. What follows is a people-first way to evaluate your website. It is also business-first. Because if your site fails this first ten-second test, you are paying for traffic you cannot turn into calls, forms or bookings. Turn clarity into conversions by learning how to make a website  with a website builder  designed to help small businesses succeed. TL;DR: small business website optimization If your small business website isn’t converting, try this simple test. Within 10 seconds, a visitor should be able to answer five basic questions: What do you do? Is this for someone like me? Do I trust you? What should I do next? How easy is the next step? If any answer feels unclear, that’s likely where you’re losing leads. Below, we break down exactly how to evaluate and fix each one. How fast do visitors judge a small business website Business owners often assume visitors read their pages the way they wrote them. That isn't how it works. Most people scan. We quantified this. On the average web page, users have time to read at most 28% of the words during an average visit, and 20% is more likely. There is also a mindset problem that keeps popping up. You know your business inside and out, visitors don't. It’s a gap between designers’ mental models and users’ mental models. Builders assume things are obvious because they have lived with the site. Visitors arrive cold. Here is what that means in plain terms: your business website needs to explain itself fast, without effort from the visitor. Research benchmarks that explain the ten second rule What we measure Verified finding First impression timing About 50 milliseconds How long users stay before leaving Often 10 to 20 seconds Learn more: How to plan a website Website features Building a website for your business, passion project or side hustle should be easy and exciting. With Wix, you can design, customize and launch a professional website in minutes. Everything about Wix is built to simplify the process so you can focus on what really matters: bringing your ideas to life. Ready to make it happen? Start creating the website you’ve always envisioned today. 5 questions every small business website must answer for better optimization If you want more inquiries, bookings or calls, your small business website must instantly answer these five questions: Can I tell what you do without thinking? Is this for someone like me? Do I trust you enough to keep reading? What should I do next? How hard will this be? 01. Can I tell what you do without thinking? This is where most small business sites bleed leads. We land on a homepage, and the headline sounds nice, but it doesn't say what the business actually does. It is often vague on purpose because the owner wants to sound professional. The problem is that vague feels risky to a new visitor. If someone can't tell what you do at a glance, they leave. They don't wait for the explanation below. Nielsen Norman Group’s research on short visits is the proof point here. People leave quickly unless they see clear value quickly. A strong top section usually answers three things without trying to be clever: What do you do? Who do you do it for? Where do you do it? That's it. When the top of your homepage is clear, everything downstream gets easier. Your services page makes more sense, your reviews feel more believable and your call to action feels like a natural next step instead of a hard sell. Pro tip: Using the right website templates  makes it easy to get your message across, and knowing how to start a business online helps your site actually support your goals. 02. Is this for someone like me? Once visitors understand what you do, they instantly decide if it applies to them. This isn't only about demographics, it's about context: Do you serve their area? Do you serve their type of problem? Do you look like a real business they can trust? For many local businesses, reviews are a major part of the decision. BrightLocal's survey-based local SEO statistics report that 71% of consumers wouldn't consider using a business with an average rating below three stars. BrightLocal also reports that 42% of people trust reviews as much as recommendations from friends or family, citing their Local Consumer Review Survey 2025. Those numbers don't mean reviews are everything. They do mean reviews are part of how people screen options. If your website hides them, you are asking visitors to take a leap they don't want to take. Review signals that influence whether people even consider you What visitors look for Verified finding Minimum acceptable rating 71% would not consider a business below 3 stars Reviews compared to word of mouth 42% trust reviews like personal recommendations One more practical note: your site also needs to match how people browse. In the United States,  StatCounter  shows that in November 2025, desktop accounted for about 55.68% and mobile for about 44.32% of platform share. That's close enough that you can't treat mobile as an afterthought. 03. Do I trust you enough to keep reading? Trust isn't one badge. It's a pattern. People notice when something feels off, like a polished logo paired with blurry images, big claims with no proof, a missing phone number or a contact page that feels like a dead end. This doesn't mean you need an expensive site, it means the basics matter: Clean layout Consistent typography Professional photos (which can even be taken on a phone with good lighting) When trust is low, visitors don't argue with themselves. They click back and choose the next option. Credibility drivers that show up in research Credibility factor Verified finding Visual design influences credibility judgment “Design look” mentioned in 46.1% of credibility comments Fast communication of value keeps people from leaving Message needs to land within 10 seconds 04. What should I do next? A lot of small business sites make visitors work too hard here. The owner wants to be polite, so they give people many options. The visitor doesn't want options, they want direction. Nielsen Norman Group calls out a real issue here: too many offerings can lead to analysis paralysis and make decisions harder. They also describe how excess choices can lead to fatigue and even abandonment. This doesn't mean you must remove everything, it just means each page should have a clear primary action. If the goal is more leads, pick the next step that matches the visitor’s intent. A consultation, quote request, call or booking. Labels matter too. Vague labels like “Learn more” or “Read more” have low information scent. Clearer labels guide users better. That is a small wording change with a real business impact. When the next step is clear, more people take it. 05. How hard will this be? Even when people like what they see, they hesitate if the next step feels slow, annoying or risky. Speed is part of this. Think with Google reports that 53% of visits are abandoned if a mobile site takes longer than three seconds to load. Think with Google also reports that as page load time increase from one second to three seconds, the probability of a bounce increases by 32%. And as load time increases from one second to ten seconds, the bounce rate increases by 123%. Google’s mobile page speed benchmarks add another useful detail: as the number of elements on a page increases from 400 to 6,000, the conversion rate drops by 95%. That's a warning about clutter and heaviness, not just server speed. Then there is form friction. We have to be honest about what research applies here.  Baymard’s  strongest quantified form research is in eCommerce checkout, not service business contact forms. Still, the behavior is familiar. Baymard reports that 18% of U.S. online shoppers have abandoned an order due to a "too long or complicated checkout process." The takeaway is not “your contact form is a checkout.” The takeaway is that complexity makes people quit. Speed and clutter benchmarks that connect to lead loss Issue Verified finding Slow mobile load 53% abandon if mobile takes longer than 3 seconds Small delay effect 1s to 3s increases bounce probability 32% Big delay effect 1s to 10s increases bounce probability 123% Page complexity effect 400 to 6,000 elements drops conversion probability 95% Complexity makes people quit 18% abandoned due to “too long or complicated” checkout Learn more: AI eCommerce builder features How to monetize a website Small business website statistics Best website builders for small businesses How these 5 questions affect leads and revenue These questions aren't abstract. They affect whether you get inquiries this week. When your website answers them clearly, the right visitors move forward with less hesitation. The wrong visitors move on early, which saves you time. That is a win too. When your website doesn't answer them, you end up with one of two problems: you get fewer leads than your traffic should create, or you get leads that aren't a good fit because your site never sets expectations. Both problems look like marketing problems from the outside. Often, there are website clarity problems. Check out website design tips for small businesses  → How to evaluate your own website without overthinking it We like simple tests because busy owners actually do them. Open your homepage on your phone and on your laptop. Mobile is still a significant share of usage. Then do this. Read only what you can see without scrolling. Give yourself ten seconds. Try to answer these questions out loud as if you were explaining the business to a friend: Can I tell what you do? Do I feel like this is meant for me? Do I trust you enough to stay? Do I know what to do next? Does the next step feel easy? If any answer feels fuzzy, that is your best starting point. We would fix the top of the page first, because that is where people decide whether they stay. Nielsen Norman Group’s time-on-page research makes that point hard to ignore. You don't need a full rebuild to make progress here. Most of the wins come from clearer language, tighter layout, fewer competing actions and friction reduction. These are improvements that respect the way people actually behave online. About the author Ihor Lavrenenko is an SEO Manager with over ten years of experience helping businesses grow online across healthcare, legal and home services industries. He specializes in SEO strategy and audits, keyword and content planning, structured data and schema, link acquisition and local SEO, helping businesses improve search visibility, drive traffic and capture local demand. With experience managing both in-house and agency teams, he brings proven systems that turn website traffic into measurable growth, making him a trusted voice for businesses looking to succeed online. Build your own thriving business website  with Wix today → Small business website optimization FAQ What should a small business website include? A high-converting small business website should include a clear headline expl aining what you do, defined service areas, customer reviews, trust signals, strong calls to action and fast-loading mobile-friendly pages. Visitors should understand your value within ten seconds. For inspiration, you can explore website ideas  that show how businesses present their services effectively. Why isn't my small business website generating leads? Common reasons include unclear messaging, weak calls to action, slow load times, lack of trust signals or overly complicated contact forms. If visitors can’t quickly understand what you offer or how to take the next step, they leave. Learning website building lessons can help you avoid these pitfalls. How fast should a small business website load? Ideally under three seconds on mobile. Research shows that 53% of users abandon mobile sites that take longer than three seconds to load, which is why slow loading websites  lose so many potential leads. Proper website management ensures your site stays fast and reliable. How do I improve conversions on my small business website? Start by clarifying your headline and above-the-fold messaging. Add visible reviews, simplify navigation, reduce form fields and create one clear primary action per page. Tools like AI website generator  can help streamline design and content creation for faster improvements. How do I know if my website messaging is clear? Perform the ten-second test: view your homepage without scrolling and see if you can immediately explain what the business does, who it serves and what to do next. If not, your messaging likely needs refinement. If you’re just starting, learning website building tips  and website building lessons  can speed up the process. How do I make a business website? To get started, choose a platform or one of the best website builders for small businesses  for your needs. Pick a domain name , set up website hosting and create pages that clearly explain your products or services. If you’re pressed for time, AI tools and exploring the best AI prompts for building a website can help generate content ideas quickly. How long does it take to build a small business website? The timeline depends on the complexity and tools used. Simple sites on free website builders can be live in a few hours, while larger professional sites may take weeks. Planning, content creation and design decisions are the biggest factors in determining how long does it take to build a website . How much does a small business website cost? Costs vary based on platform, design, hosting and whether you hire professionals. DIY sites using free tools can be inexpensive, while fully custom projects like to create a professional website  with advanced features will cost more. What is the purpose of a small business website? A small business website helps you communicate your brand, showcase your services and generate leads. Understanding what is the purpose of a website guides every decision, from layout to content to calls to action. Can I learn website building on my own? Yes. Many entrepreneurs start with beginner-friendly website builder. This approach allows you to understand the process of how to make a business website  while saving on upfront costs.

Turn your ideas into sales and start selling with Wix eCommerce →   To understand how eCommerce works, let's start with what it takes to run an online store. It's about bringing in customers, displaying your products, managing payments and shipping. A website builder   helps you with the tricky parts—like making checkout easy, organizing inventory and tracking orders. This way you can focus on growing your business instead of worrying about the small stuff. TL;DR: how does eCommerce work? Simply put, eCommerce is the buying and selling of products or services over the internet, covering everything from how customers find products to how orders are paid for, packed and delivered. This guide breaks down how eCommerce works step by step, what happens behind the scenes after a purchase and how different models like B2C, B2B, C2C and C2B function. It also includes real examples and explores how an eCommerce platform  like Wix helps you build and manage an online store. Ready to launch your eCommerce business? With Wix eCommerce, you can build a professional online store that attracts customers, drives sales and grows your brand. Enjoy full customization, built-in SEO and powerful marketing tools, all in one platform. Start today and turn your vision into success. You’ll learn: How eCommerce stacks up against traditional retail The journey from first click to final delivery A behind-the-scenes look at what happens after a customer buys Connecting the dots between payments, inventory and fulfillment The different ways to model your store How Wix helps you build and run your shop with ease eCommerce works by letting businesses sell products or services online and guiding customers from discovery to delivery. People find your store through search ads or social media then browse products and complete purchases through a secure checkout. Behind the scenes your inventory payments and orders are managed automatically while you pack and ship the products. What is eCommerce?  Ecommerce, short for electronic commerce, is the buying and selling of goods or services over the internet. You can think of it as the digital version of brick-and-mortar retail without the physical limitations. Ecommerce covers everything from discovering products and making purchases online to arranging delivery. In short, eCommerce is the engine that drives online shopping, turning internet connections into the high streets.   Behind the scenes of eCommerce The eCommerce system runs on a mix of web technology, data management and security tools. Every order sets multiple systems in motion. Your online store’s database keeps product details, customer information and order records, while the payment gateway securely processes transactions with encryption. At the same time, your inventory system refreshes stock levels so everything stays accurate. All these gears turn together behind the scenes, allowing you to manage hundreds or even thousands of orders with total confidence and ease. See more: What is eCommerce? Ecommerce vs brick and mortar What is and how to use Wix stores? How eCommerce works Check out this simple breakdown of how eCommerce works, from finding your fans to getting your products out the door. Attracting customers online Browsing and selecting products Completing the purchase Secure payment processing  Order fulfillment and inventory management Shipping and delivery Post-purchase support and customer feedback Analytics and store optimization 01. Attracting customers online To get customers through your doors, you'll need smart marketing and crystal-clear messaging. This means running targeted ads, keeping your product listings fresh and building a stunning website design . Common ways to bring in shoppers include eCommerce marketing  campaigns, social media ads, SEO features and referrals. The more welcoming your business feels, the easier it is for visitors to become buyers. Once someone lands on your site, focus on making their experience feel approachable and friendly to help turn them into happy customers. Find out more: How to start an eCommerce business How to build a website from scratch 02. Browsing and selecting products Once customers arrive at your store, the goal is to make exploring and choosing products easy. This means clear organization: categorize designs by style, theme or collection and offer filters for size, color, material or price. Sorting options like bestsellers or newest arrivals help shoppers find what they want quickly. Clear photos from different angles, zoom features and lifestyle shots let shoppers see every detail. Your product descriptions should be friendly and informative. Since people love a second opinion, adding customer reviews and ratings is a great way to build trust. You can also help your customers find even more to love by using tools like "quick view" or "frequently bought together" suggestions—perfect for increasing your order value while keeping the shopping experience fun and easy. See more: eCommerce management → 03. Completing the purchase The purchase stage is where a visitor becomes a customer and a smooth process is essential. A clear, simple checkout with as few steps as possible reduces friction and helps prevent abandoned carts. Online payment processing  ensures transactions are secure and fast, allowing shoppers to pay with credit or debit cards, digital wallets or other trusted methods. Showing order summaries, shipping costs and estimated delivery times helps buyers feel confident their order is correct. Features like guest checkout, saved addresses and automatic form validation speed up the process, making it easier for customers to complete their purchase and come back again. 04. Secure payment processing   Modern eCommerce platforms support multiple payment methods including credit and debit cards digital wallets “buy now pay later” options and even local payment solutions letting customers pay in ways that feel familiar and convenient. When a shopper checks out the payment gateway encrypts sensitive data like credit card numbers making it unreadable to hackers. Fraud prevention adds another layer of protection. Tools like address verification, CVV checks and AI-powered fraud detection help you spot suspicious activity before it affects your business. Clear communication during checkout—like showing totals, taxes and shipping fees—also reassures customers and reduces abandoned carts. Find out more:  What is Wix payments? Wix payment processing  What is eCommerce checkout? 05. Order fulfillment and inventory management Once the purchase is confirmed, the next step is fulfillment and getting the package ready to ship to the customer. First, the seller checks for availability of the purchased item through an  inventory management  system, pulls out the item and packs it, after which the customer is updated that their order is ready to ship.  By using streamlined workflows and clear communication between teams, eCommerce orders are processed quickly and accurately. It’s important to keep customers updated on their orders throughout the fulfillment process as this helps build trust and enhances their overall shopping experience. Alternative fulfillment models Some sellers skip the logistics around fulfillment entirely by partnering with a dropshipping or print on demand partner. With dropshipping and print on demand, the seller doesn’t keep any inventory or stock, instead a dropshipping or print on demand partner handles the product printing (in the case of print on demand) and shipping, sending the item directly to the customer on the seller’s behalf. Dropshipping and print on demand are great for getting into eCommerce without any inventory overhead.    “Dropshipping is a sales model in which the store owner sells products without needing to keep them in stock. Thus, the store owner acts as an intermediary, passing the orders placed in their store to the supplier, who is responsible for delivering them to the final customer.” - Bruno Brito, dropshipping specialist and CEO of Empreender See more:   What is dropshipping? How to sell print on demand t-shirts Best dropshipping website builders 06. Shipping and delivery Shipping and delivery are a key part of the eCommerce experience and often shape how customers feel about a purchase. Once an order is packed, it’s handed off to a shipping carrier and sent to the customer. Offering multiple eCommerce shipping options like standard, express or local delivery gives buyers flexibility while clear pricing and estimated delivery times help set expectations early. Once an order ships, tracking updates and delivery notifications keep customers informed and reduce uncertainty. Delays or missing information can quickly lead to frustration so proactive communication is essential. A clear returns process also matters, making it easy for customers to send items back if needed. “Logistics in eCommerce encompasses everything necessary for your products to reach your customers. This includes everything from when they visit your online store, make a purchase, and track their order, to storage, inventory management, transportation, and delivery.” - Rubén Bastón, director of Marketing4eCommerce  07. Post-purchase support and customer feedback Providing post-purchase support helps resolve issues, answer questions and make returns or exchanges simple which builds trust and keeps customers coming back. Clear communication like order confirmations, shipping updates and follow-up emails keeps buyers informed and reassured throughout the process. Collecting customer feedback is just as important. Reviews, ratings and surveys give insight into what’s working and what needs improvement, helping you refine products, website navigation and marketing. When you encourage feedback you also show customers their opinions matter, strengthening loyalty and fostering positive word-of-mouth for your online store. 08. Analytics and store optimization Your store’s data tells you what’s working and what isn’t. You can see which products are your bestsellers where shoppers drop off during checkout and which marketing efforts bring in the most people. Use this info to improve your store. You could simplify your site’s navigation update product descriptions test new checkout flows or offer personalized recommendations. Regularly checking your analytics and making small tweaks can help you boost sales reduce abandoned online shopping cart and create a better shopping experience for your customers. Types of eCommerce There are a few types of eCommerce   and each model has its own unique way of connecting sellers with their target audiences. Understanding these different approaches helps with figuring out which structure works best for your business ideas and goals. 01. Business-to-Consumer (B2C) eCommerce  Business-to-Consumer, or B2C, is the most popular eCommerce type and closely resembles the classic retail model where a business sells its products or services directly to individual customers. When someone buys a pair of shoes from an online retailer, a new book from a major marketplace or subscribes to a streaming service, they’re participating in B2C eCommerce. The focus is on a high transaction volume with a typically short sales cycle. B2C eCommerce success often comes down to creating a great customer experience and building a strong brand identity. Since B2C eCommerce focuses on selling to individuals, marketing is aimed at appealing to personal needs, desires and emotions. B2C marketing usually comes in the form of social media campaigns, influencer partnerships and email promotions. The goal is to attract shoppers to your store and make the buying process as smooth as possible to encourage them to click the “Buy Now” button and come back for repeat purchases. 02. Business-to-Business (B2B) eCommerce  Business-to-Business (B2B) eCommerce is an eCommerce type where one business sells products or services to other businesses. These transactions often involve bulk orders, long-term contracts and more complex and dynamic pricing structures than traditional B2C eCommerce. Examples of B2B eCommerce are office supplies, software and software licensing firms or production material providers. The B2B sales process is typically longer and more relationship-driven. Decisions are based on logic, return on investment and efficiency rather than desires and emotions. Marketing in the B2B space focuses on building trust and demonstrating value through case studies, whitepapers and detailed product specifications and datasheets. The goal is to position your B2B eCommerce business as a reliable partner that helps other businesses operate more effectively. 03. Consumer-to-Consumer (C2C) eCommerce  Consumer-to-Consumer (C2C) eCommerce happens when individuals sell products or services directly to one another through an online platform. Online marketplaces like eBay, Etsy and Facebook Marketplace are popular examples where anyone can sell used furniture, handmade crafts or old electronics to other regular people. Online marketplaces and C2C platforms usually take a small commission or listing fee in return. With C2C, the platform's role is to connect buyers with sellers and provide a secure environment for the transaction. Trust is a huge factor, which is why rating and review systems are so important. C2C has empowered countless individuals to become casual sellers or even run small businesses from their homes, turning personal items or hobbies into a viable source of income. 04. Consumer-to-Business (C2B) eCommerce Consumer-to-Business (C2B) is an interesting eCommerce model that flips the traditional sales dynamic. In C2B, an individual sells their products or services to a business. This is common in the creator economy. For example, a freelance photographer might sell their images to a stock photo company, a blogger could be paid by a brand for a sponsored post or a web developer could offer their services for a specific corporate project. In this model, the individual creates the value, and the business pays for it. Online platforms, like Fiverr and Upwork, have made C2B more accessible than ever, connecting freelancers and creators with companies looking for specific skills. C2B eCommerce lets talented individuals monetize their expertise by working with businesses of all sizes. eCommerce in action: a t-shirt online store example Build your shop : Start by creating a professional site with Wix drag and drop website builder . Personalize your shop with product galleries, filters and quick views so customers can browse your designs with ease. Add detailed product pages with high-quality images, available sizes and colors, material info and design options to help shoppers find their new favorite shirt. Attract customers: Promote your t-shirt store across multiple marketing channels. Use Wix SEO tools to appear when people search for custom t-shirts, launch social media campaigns featuring your designs or send emails to showcase new collections and limited editions. Encourage return shoppers:  Let customers create accounts to save wishlists, track order history and store addresses for faster checkout. Accept secure payments: Set up safe, flexible payment options. Wix Payments and integrations with providers like PayPal, Stripe and credit cards let customers pay in ways they trust. Secure encryption and fraud prevention tools ensure transactions are protected, giving buyers confidence. Set up shipping: Offer flexible shipping methods that suit your audience. Options like free shipping, flat rates, local delivery or store pickup make it easier for customers to complete their orders. Clear shipping info and tracking updates improve the overall experience. Manage orders and inventory: Keep everything organized from one dashboard. Track inventory levels, process new orders and handle fulfillment efficiently. Wix makes it easy to coordinate in-house stock or integrate with dropshipping and print-on-demand partners to avoid running out of popular items. Expand your catalog: Grow your product selection without extra inventory by connecting with services like Printful, Printify, Modalyst or Spocket. This allows you to offer new designs and trending products while the partner handles printing and shipping. Sell on multiple channels: Reach more buyers by selling your t-shirts on platforms like Google, Facebook, Amazon, eBay and YouTube. Wix lets you manage everything in one place—sync your t-shirt designs, track sales and handle orders across multiple channels without extra hassle. Enhance your store: Use advanced tools like Velo by Wix to add custom coding and features tailored to your business. You can implement unique checkout flows, special discounts or personalized recommendations to improve the shopping experience and boost conversions. Learn more: How to sell online How to start an online store Building an eCommerce website with Wix Wix helps you create a business-ready online store in minutes with easy domain name  search and registration, free website hosting  and eCommerce hosting , online shopping cart integration and an online store builder .  You can choose from over 2,000 website templates , including hundreds of eCommerce website templates and customize them to match your brand. Once your site is designed, you can add your products and set up shipping and payment options to start selling. Learn how to sell on Wix How does eCommerce work with Wix? Wix offers an all-in-one online store builder with fully customizable storefronts, offering:  Intuitive design tools:  Drag-and-drop website builder and customizable eCommerce website templates . Built-in SEO: Optimize your site to rank higher in search results and attract more shoppers with Wix SEO . AI website creator : Launch a professional-looking online store in just a few clicks.  Integrated marketing tools:  Email campaigns, social media integration and more. Flexible payment options:  Accept major payment methods through Wix Payments or connect to over 100 global providers like Stripe, Square and Klarna. Wix enhances the customer experience and creates a seamless shopping journey with features like: AI-powered chat:  Assist customers in real-time to reduce cart abandonment. Advanced navigation:  Add filters, sorting options and search functionality. Secure checkout: Build trust with PCI compliance and fraud prevention. By combining powerful eCommerce tools  with ease of use, an eCommerce website built with Wix empowers businesses to attract more customers and sell more. Check out these stunning eCommerce website examples →  How does eCommerce work? FAQ What is an eCommerce website? An eCommerce website is an online store that allows a business to display products or services and sell them directly to customers over the internet. These websites include features like a product catalog, a virtual shopping cart and a secure payment system. Using tools like Wix, you can easily build a high-converting eCommerce website in minutes. How do you start an eCommerce business? You start an eCommerce business by choosing a product to sell, setting up your online store using an eCommerce platform and creating a marketing plan to attract customers. Building an online store:  Decide what products to sell by focusing on a niche you’re passionate about  Come up with a brand and register a domain name to go with it  Design your store layout and upload your products listings  Setup payment processing and shipping option Once your store is live, the focus shifts to driving traffic to your store through social media marketing, content marketing or paid advertising. Running a successful online store effectively involves continuously testing your strategies and adapting to customer feedback. What are the most important eCommerce tools? The most important eCommerce tools include an eCommerce platform to build and host your store, a payment gateway to process payments, marketing automation software for ongoing promotions and analytics tools for insights into customers' behavior. How do I market my online store? There are countless ways to market an eCommerce store, but a few tactics stand out, such as SEO, social media campaigns, email marketing strategies and paid advertising. There isn’t one overarching marketing strategy that fits all online stores. The most successful sellers experiment with different channels and messages, track their results and adapt with what works. Is eCommerce profitable? Yes, eCommerce can be very profitable. With lower overhead costs compared to traditional retail and the ability to reach a global customer base, online businesses have significant potential for growth and high profit margins. Success depends on factors like product demand, marketing strategy and operational efficiency.

Turn your ideas into sales and start selling with Wix eCommerce →   With so many options on the market, choosing the best eCommerce website builder can be overwhelming. You need a tool that not only offers flexibility and scalability but also integrates with various payment gateways, provides robust security and delivers an impeccable user experience. It may be tempting to pick the first option that comes up in your Google search. Yet, what works for one person might not be the most suitable website builder  for your business. To save you time, money and headaches in your search, we've rounded up a list of the best eCommerce website builders that cover a range of budgets and use cases. Ready to start your eCommerce journey? Now’s the perfect time to bring your vision to life. With Wix eCommerce, you have the tools to build a professional online store and create a website that captivates your audience, drives traffic and boosts sales. Take the first step and explore Wix eCommerce today. Make your mark online and turn your ideas into success. 10 best eCommerce website builders Navigating the world of website builders requires more than just a quick glance, especially if you’re looking for a tool that can support your eCommerce business  at all stages of its growth. Each option in our carefully curated list of the best eCommerce platforms  brings reliable solutions to the table. From specialized features catering to specific industries to versatile builders that suit any type of business , we've got you covered.  Wix: Best all-in-one eCommerce platform with AI tools   Squarespace : Offers a diverse selection of templates BigCommerce : Advanced features for businesses of all sizes Big Cartel : Affordable pricing plans for small businesses Shopify : Extensive app store with free and paid apps WooCommerce : Designed for seamless WordPress integration Ecwid : Ideal for quickly launching an online store Weebly : Provides easy-to-use templates for beginners Shift4Shop : Free domain name registration and renewal Volusion : Built-in tools for sales and marketing 01. Wix  With Wix, learning how to make a website  for eCommerce is straightforward. You can browse a library of free, professionally designed online store templates  that match your brand's identity. You can then customize your site with the help of our drag-and-drop website builder  and all of its built-in editing tools or AI—no coding required. If you do have coding experience, however, Wix’s open platform does allow you to create your own customized website with code. Wix is designed as a comprehensive, end-to-end eCommerce platform with eCommerce tools  and others, to help you market, manage and grow your business—from sourcing products to accepting payments, fulfilling orders, developing into B2B eCommerce and more.  Learn more about what is Wix Payments.   For example, from Wix, you can manage product listings across multiple sales channels , including native mobile apps, third-party eCommerce marketplaces  and social media  There’s even an integrated physical point-of-sale  (POS) system for accepting in-person sales.  “Wix is not only an eCommerce website builder,” explains Oren Inditzky, vice president and general manager of online stores at Wix. “It covers all types of business, and as such, it can allow you to further grow and expand your business. In addition to selling products, you can also offer services to book , events to attend , blogs to read and so on.”  Once your site is live, you can refine your content to drive more sales, convert more customers and show up higher in search results. Wix’s SEO Assistant  automatically recommends ways to improve your content, structure and SEO attributes across Wix Bookings pages, Wix Stores product pages and Wix Blog posts. And, Wix is at the forefront of AI in eCommerce : with built-in AI text creation tools, you can instantly refine FAQ pages, About sections and more. Most notably, the AI tool can create hundreds of optimized product descriptions for your store in minutes, saving you countless hours of work.  Or supercharge your eCommerce business with Wix's AI Custom Agent an intuitive no-code toll that lets you build powerful AI agents tailored to your specific needs. Your custom agent can work around the clock to drive results by automatically reconnecting with inactive customers through personalized coupon campaigns, preventing inventory shortages by monitoring stock and contacting suppliers, optimizing sales with smart discount strategies for underperforming products and delivering actionable business insights through AI-generated reports sent directly to your inbox. Key Wix features Custom website templates  for various industries Built-in AI tools for website creation, product descriptions, product recommendations and more Wide range of built-in eCommerce tools, plus hundreds of third-party integrations (free and paid) through the Wix App Market Versatile payment solution, Wix Payments, offers a seamless checkout experience Easy integration with social media channels (Instagram, Facebook and TikTok) and advertising channels (Google Ads, Facebook Ads and Instagram Ads) Support for selling across multiple channels, including native apps, POS systems, external marketplaces and social media Pricing Ecommerce plans start at $27 per month See more : Read our handy guide on  how to start an online store . Ready to start selling online and explore eCommerce hosting ? Try Wix  on for size. 02. Squarespace Squarespace can help all kinds of businesses get online. The website builder offers an assortment of visually appealing templates, making it a good choice for photographers, local stores, restaurants and more. Squarespace combines good looks with versatility and ease of use. Its drag-and-drop site editor is fairly simple to use, allowing you to set up your site in a short amount of time. You don't need any coding know-how to make a great-looking and functional website. Additionally, the platform has many helpful features that will help your online business scale. For example, it has built-in blogging features for SEO visibility as well as merchandising tools like low stock alerts, product waitlists and more.  Key features of Squarespace Simplified site-building tools, allowing easy customization without technical expertise Diverse selection of templates for a wide range of stylistic preferences Combines aesthetic appeal with practical features, ideal for creative industries and user-friendly online stores Pricing  Range of plans available, with their Business plan starting at $33 per month; advanced merchandising tools are available under the eCommerce plan at $36 per month Looking for the best Squarespace alternatives ? Try Wix for free and see how it compares in this  Wix vs Squarespace  guide. 03. BigCommerce BigCommerce is another popular platform for online stores of all sizes, especially enterprise businesses. As its name implies, this is largely thanks to the eCommerce-specific features available across all of its plans.  You can start building your site from one of 12 free designs, or browse through the library of more than 200 paid templates. If you have technical experience, you can further customize your website down to the CSS and HTML code. One of the nicest features of BigCommerce is that it offers unlimited products and staff accounts across all of its plan tiers. Each tier also offers multichannel sales features, built-in blogs, professional reporting tools, product ratings and more. More advanced features are available in higher-tier plans. Key features of BigCommerce Well-suited to businesses looking to scale, offering solutions for small and enterprise businesses; enterprise features include multi-storefront capabilities, leading omnichannel integrations, extensive partner ecosystem and more No transaction fees across any of its plans Integration with WordPress to modify an existing website Pricing Plans start from $39 per month 04. Big Cartel If you’re a creative professional, showcasing your work in the best light can be hard. Fortunately, Big Cartel offers a good solution if you're looking for an eCommerce website builder aimed at independent artists and creators.  Big Cartel takes a simple approach to website creation, which is ideal for smaller stores or those just getting started with their business. It is not intended to handle robust eCommerce or enterprise needs like those offered by platforms like Wix, Shopify or BigCommerce.  All of Big Cartel’s 15+ templates are stylish, unique and free across all pricing plans. You can customize each design to your liking, and the platform’s site editor lets you see changes made to your Big Cartel site right away.  As for your store offerings, you can list five products for sale through the free forever plan, or upgrade to a paid plan to list between 50 and 500 products. All plans come with an assortment of basic eCommerce tools, though more advanced features like analytics, inventory management and shipping tracking are available through paid plans. Key features of Big Cartel Ideal for independent artists and small creators Simple, stylish and customizable templates Affordable pricing plans with a free forever option for eCommerce sellers Pricing  Paid plans start from $9.99 per month; free forever plan also available 05. Shopify Shopify’s website builder is designed specifically for eCommerce businesses. The platform offers a wide range of features and customizability options for merchants, making it a popular choice for online selling. To build your online store with Shopify, you can browse more than 170 professionally designed templates from the platform’s theme library. Of this assortment, around a dozen themes are free while more than 160 are paid. Shopify's templates provide the basic framework you need to get started building your online store; you can then add additional functionality and customization to your site via Shopify’s diverse app store, which features more than 8,000 free and paid apps as of this writing.  Key features of Shopify “Shopify Magic” offers a suite of AI tools to write product descriptions, emails, blog posts and more Extensive app market to customize the design, functionality and content of your online store Supports omnichannel selling across online and offline platforms Pricing Plans start from $39 per month Learn more: Shopify alternatives Wix vs Shopify 06. WooCommerce WooCommerce is an open-source plugin that's built for WordPress, giving you tight control over your eCommerce site. Building a store with WooCommerce is a budget-friendly option because the plugin is free. The only caveat is you'll need your own server, domain name and SSL certificate to receive payments. Since the onus is on you, the user, to sort out your website, that also means you'll need to handle your website's upkeep and safety. Since you have full control and autonomy over WooCommerce, you can really make your online store your own. There are hundreds of free and paid extensions you can add to include features like different ways to pay or tools for email marketing. However, bear in mind that you have to keep these plugins and your WordPress up to date to keep your site safe and working right. Other eCommerce website builders on this list manage everything for you (usually at a cost). With you completely at the helm, you’ll want to double-check your site’s functionality after something like a plugin update.  If you’re looking instead for a turnkey solution, Woo, the creator of WooCommerce, also offers Woo Express. These paid plans are designed for folks who want to spend less time building and more time selling.    Key features of WooCommerce Plugin is free to download and built for WordPress integration Ideal for business owners who want full control over all elements of their website Hundreds of free and paid extensions to round out your online store functionality Pricing Free to install (must pay for your own hosting provider and domain name) See more: Ready to get your venture off of the ground? Read our guide on how to start a business . 07. Ecwid Ecwid  is a unique option among the best eCommerce  website builders. Instead of needing to build or redesign an entire site, Ecwid can simply be added to your existing website—including your Wix website—instantly turning it into an online store. The platform proclaims that it can help you “sell anywhere,” offering additional eCommerce integrations for social media, online marketplaces like Esty or Amazon, and even in-person sales via POS and mobile.  If you don’t yet have a website, you can use Ecwid’s “Instant Site” feature to put one together in about 30 minutes. The platform offers hundreds of customizable templates designed to get your store launched as quickly and effortlessly as possible. Ecwid offers a free forever plan with limited functionality. Advanced and even basic eCommerce features—like live chat support, discounts and access to Ecwid’s App Market—are only available through paid plans.  Key features of Ecwid “Instant Site” feature for quickly launching an online store; ideal for beginners Allows you add eCommerce functionality to your existing website, blog, social media channels and more Free-forever plan, which allows you to sell up to five products from your online store Pricing Paid plans start from $19 per month; free forever plan also available 08. Weebly Weebly is another good choice for independent contractors or small businesses that want to set up a website, especially if you don't want anything too technical. Weebly is owned by Square, meaning you’ll need a Square Online account to access the site builder.  Weebly offers a range of customizable templates—including free options—that enable you to craft a professional-looking store. Its user-friendly interface makes designing your site straightforward, though it’s a bit more limited in design options than other platforms on this list. Weebly also integrates seamlessly with various payment gateways, providing a smooth transaction experience for both the store owner and the customers.  This simplicity does not come at the cost of functionality, as Weebly includes essential features like inventory management, shipping tools and basic marketing capabilities within its platform. Key features of Weebly Offers beginner-friendly templates with simple and practical editing tools Offers a robust free plan (though you cannot connect a domain name) Premium plans are fairly budget-friendly Pricing Plans start from $13 per month 09. Shift4Shop Shift4Shop, formerly known as 3dcart, is a strong contender in the eCommerce website builder space, particularly for businesses looking for an all-inclusive platform with extensive customization capabilities.  One of Shift4Shop’s most significant advantages is that it offers an “unlimited, enterprise-grade” plan with a full suite of eCommerce tools for the potential cost of $0. If your online store processes at least $500 per month, your end-to-end eCommerce plan is free. If you process less than $500 per month, you’ll still have access to the same tools, but may be charged a monthly software as a service (SaaS) fee. All of Shift4Shop’s 100 website themes are free, too. Key features of Shift4Shop Feature-rich plans are suitable for beginners and small-scale online businesses Offers free domain name registration and renewal Stores processing over $500 per month pay $0 for the platform Pricing Free for businesses that process at least $500 per month; monthly SaaS fee may apply otherwise 10. Volusion Volusion is a solid out-of-the-box solution for small- to medium-sized online stores, with a focus on making website creation simple and easily customizable. The platform offers an assortment of free themes expertly designed with “conversions in mind.” The simple page-building tool allows you to customize each theme with click-to-add functionality for pre-coded content blocks—like blogs, featured products, testimonials and more. Volusion also offers an assortment of sales and marketing tools, but it’s worth noting that they’re only available starting at the second-tier paid plan. This includes useful features like abandoned cart reports, a customer relationship management (CRM) system, ratings, reviews and more. Key features of Volusion Simple and effective eCommerce platform for small- and medium-sized online stores No coding required to customize any of the templates or website features Offers an assortment of eCommerce sales and marketing tools Pricing Plans start from $35 per month Non-negotiable features of an eCommerce website builder The best eCommerce website builders should offer a range of features to enable you to create, manage and optimize your online store. Some of the key non-negotiable features you should expect from an eCommerce website builder are: Ease of use Any platform you use should have an intuitive interface that allows users with varying levels of technical expertise to build and customize their online stores without extensive coding knowledge. Look for features such as drag and drop and low code no code capabilities. Templates and customization Access to a variety of professionally designed ecommerce templates should be paramount, catering to different industries and design styles. Additionally, the ability to customize these templates with branding elements, colors, fonts and layouts is essential for creating a unique online store. Popular ecommerce website examples include: Fashion and clothing templates Jewelry templates Beauty and wellness templates Food and drinks templates Arts and crafts templates Mobile friendly The builder should ensure that websites created on the builder are mobile friendly, allowing you to design your site for mobile. Mobile friendly ecommerce website builders prioritize site reliability  and performance . Product management Robust product ecommerce management features are crucial, including the ability to add, edit, and categorize products easily. Users should be able to upload product images, set prices, manage inventory and create product variations (such as sizesm or colors) efficiently. Checkout and payment processing Your ecommerce platform should offer a secure and streamlined checkout process, allowing customers to easily add products to their cart, enter shipping and payment details and complete purchases. Integration with popular payment gateways and support for multiple payment methods for credit card processing online  (credit cards, PayPal) is essential. Shipping and tax options Your ecommerce builder should provide flexible shipping and tax configuration options, allowing users to set shipping rates based on factors like weight, location or order value. It should also support automatic tax calculations based on the customer's location and applicable tax laws. Marketing tools Built-in search engine optimization (SEO) features  are essential to help you optimize their online stores for better visibility in search engine results. Additionally, marketing tools such as email marketing integration, discount codes, social media sharing and gift cards can help drive traffic and increase sales. Analytics and reporting A good ecommerce website builder should offer built-in analytics tools  that provide insights into website traffic, sales performance, customer behavior and other key metrics. Access to detailed reports and data visualization tools can help you make informed decisions to optimize their online stores. Security and compliance Security features  such as SSL encryption, PCI compliance and regular software updates are essential to protect customer data and ensure a secure shopping experience. Also look for features like automatic backups and fraud detection/prevention mechanisms, all of which are standard with a Wix ecommerce site. Customer support and community Look for responsive customer support channels (such as live chat, email or phone support) and comprehensive documentation/resources to help you troubleshoot issues and get the most out of your builder. An active user community or forum can encourage knowledge sharing and collaboration among all users. Learn more: WordPress alternatives Editor’s note: all prices and features are current as of January 11, 2024. Best eCommerce website builders FAQ What is an eCommerce website? An eCommerce website  is an online platform where businesses sell goods and services directly to consumers. It acts as a digital storefront, offering a convenient, accessible way for users to browse, select and buy products or services at any time. These websites are equipped with features like shopping carts , product catalogs and secure payment systems. For businesses, they provide a vital channel to reach a wider audience, track consumer behavior and enhance sales. Learn more: eCommerce advantages and disadvantages What is the best eCommerce website builder? Determining the best eCommerce website builder depends on your business needs, technical skills and budget.  For ease of use and versatility, Wix stands out as a top choice, offering a wide range of customizable templates, eCommerce functionality and an intuitive drag-and-drop interface with AI tools built in. How much does it cost to build an online store? The cost of building an online store can vary widely depending on several factors, including your paid subscription plan (if applicable), necessary apps and other essential eCommerce features. Additional costs may include purchasing a domain name, which typically costs around $10 to $20 annually, and any premium themes or plugins, which can cost as much as $400. For a more customized, professional store, costs can escalate significantly, especially if you hire web designers or developers, potentially reaching thousands of dollars. Remember, ongoing expenses for maintenance, marketing and platform updates also contribute to how much an eCommerce website costs . Can I build an eCommerce website for free? There are several eCommerce website builders that will let you get started with building an ecommerce website  for free. However, you may quickly discover that you need to factor in other costs in order to grow or market your store. For example, you may need to pay for hosting, a domain name and potentially a subscription fee if you’d like to upgrade your account with your platform of choice.

S tart selling with Wix eCommerce →   Get started with Dropshipping  today → Ecommerce websites have revolutionized the way we think about retail and commerce. At its core, eCommerce or electronic commerce, refers to the buying and selling of goods or services using the internet. It encompasses a range of different transactions, from online shopping for clothes to ordering software services. eCommerce sales is not just a trend, it's are an integral part of modern business practices. When you shop online, you're participating in e-Commerce. Digital marketplaces, aka eCommerce website, allows consumers and businesses to interact in a virtual space, providing convenience and accessibility that traditional brick-and-mortar stores can't match. With just a few clicks, you can purchase an item from halfway across the world—a testament to the power and reach of e-Commerce websites. In this article, we'll explore the basics of eCommerce websites, their importance in today's business landscape, key components for building an eCommerce site , eCommerce KPIs and much more. Whether you're a seasoned business owner looking to expand online or a newcomer curious about the potential of e-commerce when starting your business , this article will provide valuable insights into making the most of your online presence. Ready to start your eCommerce journey? Now’s the perfect time to bring your vision to life. With Wix eCommerce, you have the tools to build an online store and create a website that captivates your audience, drives traffic and boosts sales. Take the first step and explore Wix eCommerce today. Make your mark online and turn your ideas into success. What is an eCommerce website? An e-commerce website, simply put, is an online store. It's a platform where goods and services are traded between buyers and sellers over the internet. Unlike a physical storefront, an e-commerce website can be accessed at any time, from anywhere, as long as there's an internet connection. As a digital shopfront displays products or services, allows users to select and purchase them and facilitates the acceptance of payments . Learn more: How to create an eCommerce website Best eCommerce platforms eCommerce website examples eCommerce website vs other types of websites What distinguishes an e-commerce website from other types of websites is its ability to handle transactions. E-commerce transactions are the lifeblood of any online store, allowing for the exchange of goods, services, and funds over the web. These transactions are supported by eCommerce platforms —specialized software solutions that provide the necessary eCommerce tools for managing sales, inventory , customers and other critical aspects of online business operations. Website builders like Wix incorporate eCommerce features in their platforms to help you build a successful online store. Learn more: How much does an eCommerce website cost , eCommerce website examples , Website vs online store Types of eCommerce websites The main eCommerce types are: Business to Consumer (B2C): This is the most common form of e-commerce where businesses sell directly to consumers. Think of your typical online retailers. Business to Business (B2B) : Here, transactions occur between two businesses. For example, a manufacturer selling to a wholesaler. Consumer to Consumer (C2C): Platforms like eBay facilitate this type of e-commerce where individuals can sell goods or services to each other. Read more: Squarespace alternatives Wix vs Squarespace Shopify alternatives  Wix vs Shopify WordPress alternatives eCommerce website examples To give you a clearer picture of what an eCommerce website is, here are some examples: Amazon: A giant in B2C sales that offers everything from books to electronics. Alibaba: A leading B2B platform connecting manufacturers with retailers. eBay: A popular C2C marketplace where individuals can auction and sell items. Each type serves different market needs and requires specific business strategies for success. Importance of eCommerce websites when starting a business A digital driven world has made e-commerce websites not just a convenience but a necessity for businesses looking to thrive online. The ability to start an eCommerce business has opened up new opportunities for business growth, expansion and customer reach that were previously unimaginable. Here's why having a website dedicated to e-commerce is crucial for any business aiming for profitability online. Global reach: Unlike a physical store, an online store can reach customers worldwide, breaking geographical barriers. Cost-effectiveness: Running an e-commerce website often requires less capital compared to maintaining a physical storefront. Convenience: Customers appreciate the convenience of shopping online at any time without the need to travel. Personalization: E-commerce platforms can provide personalized experiences based on customer data, enhancing satisfaction and loyalty. Analytics: Online stores can track and analyze consumer behavior, allowing for more informed business decisions. Learn more: How to start an online store , Optimize your e-commerce website , Benefits of a website Key components of an eCommerce website User-friendly design and mobile Commerce A successful e-Commerce website must be easy to navigate (especially once users have added items to their online shopping cart and are towards the end of their purchase) and visually appealing. A user-friendly design ensures that customers can find what they're looking for without frustration. Moreover, with the increasing prevalence of smartphones, mobile commerce has become a critical aspect of online shopping. Your e-Commerce site must be optimized for mobile devices and mobile commerce, providing a seamless shopping experience whether the customer is on a desktop or on the go. For more web design inspiration consider these examples, or check out our guide to eCommerce UX . Robust e-Commerce platform or website builder Choosing the right e-commerce platform is pivotal. These platforms or ecommerce website builders can help you manage your online store efficiently, from inventory management to customer service. Selecting a robust platform, like Wix, that aligns with your business goals will set the foundation for a successful e-commerce website. Secure transaction processing Security is paramount in e-commerce transactions. Customers need to trust that their personal and financial information is safe when making purchases. Implementing secure payment gateways, website security measures and adhering to data protection standards are essential steps in building that trust and ensuring the integrity of your online store. Effective product display and descriptions Finally, how you present your products can make or break your e-commerce website. High-quality images, detailed descriptions and clear pricing information are crucial for convincing customers to make a purchase. Additionally, providing reviews and ratings can further enhance product pages by offering social proof to potential buyers. Advantages of an eCommerce website The decision to launch an e-commerce website can be transformative for a business. The advantages of entering the world of online commerce are numerous and can lead to substantial growth and success. Here are some of the key benefits: Wider audience reach: An e-commerce website opens your business to a global audience, removing the limitations of physical location. Operational cost savings: Operating online can significantly reduce overhead costs such as rent, utilities, and in some cases, staffing. Increased sales opportunities: With the ability to operate 24/7, an e-commerce site offers more opportunities for sales than a traditional retail store with set hours. Data-driven insights: Online selling provides access to customer data and analytics that can inform business strategies and marketing efforts. Scalability: As your business grows, an e-commerce platform can scale with you, accommodating more products, services and traffic without the need for a larger physical space. eCommerce website FAQ What is an example of a successful eCommerce website? An example of an e-commerce website is Amazon, where customers can browse a vast selection of products, compare prices, read reviews, and make purchases all in one place. Other examples include fashion retailer ASOS, electronics specialist Best Buy and home goods store Wayfair. What is an eCommerce website used for? An e-commerce website is used for conducting business online. It serves as a platform where ecommerce businesses can showcase their products or services, interact with customers, and process sales transactions. These sites are designed to facilitate the entire shopping experience from product discovery to checkout. What are some types of eCommerce businesses? Online retailers :  These are businesses that sell products directly to consumers through their websites. Subscription services:  Companies that offer regular delivery of products or access to services for a recurring fee. Digital products:  Businesses that sell digital goods such as software, e-books, music, or courses. Dropshipping:  Retailers who sell products that are shipped directly from the supplier to the customer without handling the inventory themselves. Other types of websites What is a wedding website What is a membership website What is a real estate website

Turn your ideas into sales and start selling with Wix eCommerce →   When it comes to online retail, the work of  building an eCommerce website  and perfecting it is never done. As an online store owner, you not only have to think about if your site looks good, but also if it’s going to convert visitors into customers effectively. Think of your website as a car and yourself as the mechanic—every time you fine-tune your site, it'll drive a little smoother, move a little faster and stay strong for years to come.  This article will serve as your instruction manual for eCommerce website optimization. Discover eight invaluable strategies for improving your site’s performance and creating an unforgettable experience for your shoppers.  As you prepare for high-traffic shopping moments like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, these strategies become even more valuable for keeping your store fast, reliable and ready to convert visitors into customers. Ready to start your eCommerce journey? Now’s the perfect time to bring your vision to life. With Wix eCommerce, you have the tools to build a professional online store and create a website that captivates your audience, drives traffic and boosts sales. Take the first step and explore Wix eCommerce today. Make your mark online and turn your ideas into success. TL;DR: eCommerce website optimization Ecommerce website optimization is about making your store faster, easier to use and more appealing to shoppers. Use clear CTAs, fast-loading pages and SEO-friendly product pages so visitors can find what they want and take action quickly. Simplify checkout, include all the product details customers need, and try different pricing strategies to see what drives sales. Personalize the experience using browsing history, past purchases or location to recommend the right products. Keep an eye on analytics like traffic, conversion rate, average order value, bounce rate and customer lifetime value to spot areas for improvement. Use classic sales tactics like flash sales, seasonal promotions or limited-time offers to create urgency and boost conversions. Ecommerce website optimization strategies Make your CTAs obvious Audit and increase your site speed Implement SEO best practices on your product pages Simplify your checkout flow Test pricing strategies Give your customers all the info they need Track analytics and metrics regularly Personalize the shopping experience Experiment with classic sales strategies 01. Make your CTAs obvious A call to action (CTA) refers to a piece of text, link or button that encourages customers to take a specific action. If you use an eCommerce website template , it usually comes with a built-in, well-designed CTA, making it easier for visitors to know where to click. CTAs that are difficult to find or understand can hinder the success of this  type of website , where visitors are often hopping between pages to find what they’re looking for.  Customers should know exactly where to go to look at the items in their cart and proceed to checkout. If you’re using a button, pick a color that contrasts against the background. For example, if you look at this landing page for Wix’s  landing page builder , you’ll notice that the white “get started” button stands out against the green background. This makes it one of the first things visitors see when they land on the page. Your CTA’s copy should also be obvious. “Your visitor should be absolutely sure what pressing the button will do and where it will bring them, otherwise they will never click,” says Amanda Weiner, CRO expert at Wix. While it may be tempting to replace an ordinary “add to cart” button with text that says “treat yourself,” you’ll want to stick to clear, descriptive text. Straightforward language can lead to more immediate action, plus improve  website accessibility . Don’t have a website? Use Wix’s  eCommerce website builder  to get started today. 02. Audit and increase your eCommerce site speed Every second counts when it comes to eCommerce site speed. According to an analysis by Portent , a site that loads in one second has an eCommerce conversion rate that’s 2.5 higher than a site that takes five seconds to load.  Not to mention that faster loading times can improve things like your SEO (search engine optimization) or Google Ads quality score, which may have a material effect on the traffic to your store.  Use tools like the Wix Site Speed dashboard to get a better sense of your site's performance. The Wix dashboard specifically uses real visitor data to accurately reflect what your website visitors are experiencing. It will show you how fast your website is using a number of Core Web Vitals, including: First contentful paint (FCP):  How long it takes for the first piece of content to show up on the page when your website loads Largest contentful paint (LCP): The time it takes for the largest page element to appear First input delay (FID):  How long it takes for your website to process a visitor’s first interaction with a page, such as a click or scroll Cumulative layout shift (CLS): How many times elements change positions on your page, which indicates visual stability  The Wix Site Speed dashboard provides recommendations for improving overall performance, accessibility and SEO. For example, you might be advised to compress video files before uploading them to your website. Or, you may find that you’re using too many custom fonts. Check this dashboard regularly and update your site accordingly to ensure a smooth, uninterrupted shopping experience.  Related reading: How much does an eCommerce website cost?   03. Implement SEO best practices on your product pages A recent Klarna study found that 32% percent of U.S. consumers still begin their online shopping journey with a search engine. In other words, SEO should be top of mind as you’re fine-tuning your site. There are many factors that go into SEO—but at minimum, you’ll want to make sure that you’re using keywords that are relevant, descriptive and highly searched throughout your website and product pages .  To do so, conduct keyword research for each product and page. (If you’ve got too many pages to tackle at once, focus on the pages for your best-selling or recommended products.) Keep an eye out for the most popular phrases that people are googling to discover products like yours. You can use a tool like  Wix's Semrush integration  to identify keywords and sift through a number of helpful metrics:  Search volume: The number of individuals that search for the keyword within a specific timeframe (usually a month).  Keyword difficulty: How difficult it would be to rank for that keyword. This is usually related to the amount of competition there is for a keyword and the number of backlinks those competitors have. Search intent: The purpose behind a user’s query. Are they searching with an informational intent (e.g., “how to choose the right sneakers”), navigational intent (e.g., “sneaker store near me”), commercial intent (e.g., “best deals on running sneakers”) or transactional intent (e.g., “buy Adidas Ultraboost”)? Weigh the above metrics to find the ideal keyword for each page. For example, at this stage, you might find that instead of targeting the phrase “running shoes,” you’re better off targeting “women’s running shoe size 9” because it’s more specific, has a high search volume and relevant to people who are ready to make a purchase. Once you’ve decided on the right keywords, incorporate them into your product pages via the product name, description, alt text and/or URL. Note: if you’re using Wix, you can always tap the AI text creator or AI meta tag creator for help with writing. Ecommerce consultant  Luke Carthy also recommends checking out the “People Also Ask” section  of relevant search engine results pages (SERP): “As you search more queries, you’ll surface more questions and potentially begin to identify patterns and questions that frequently appear. Take note of these details, as they’re likely to come in handy when you’re working on your descriptions.” Remember, SEO isn’t a one-and-done deal; keep an eye on your rankings and take steps to retain or improve them over time.  04. Simplify your checkout flow The average  abandoned cart rate  in eCommerce stands at a whopping 70.19%. While abandoned  shopping carts  are an inevitable part of selling online, you can reduce them by simplifying your checkout flow and removing any friction. The only way to decrease abandonment is to understand why it happens. According to a  meta-analysis of 49 studies  by Baymard Institute, cart abandonment is often a result of one of these events: Extra costs are too high (48%):  When taxes, shipping and fees end up increasing the order total unexpectedly, many customers tend to ditch their carts. Solve this problem by incorporating fees into your product pricing or offering free shipping for orders over a certain amount. The latter technique has the added benefit of encouraging customers to buy more than they may have initially intended. The site required a new account (26%):  If your website makes people create an account to proceed with checkout, you could be adding unnecessary friction to the transaction. Offer a guest checkout option to help new customers breeze through this step, then let them create an account to keep track of their purchases or access special promos after they’ve checked out. Delivery was too slow (23%):  When shoppers encounter extended delivery windows or uncertain arrival dates, they may opt to look elsewhere for quicker solutions. To mitigate this, offer expedited shipping at a higher cost or offer free shipping after a certain threshold to give them a reason to be patient. Wix users can also use the ShipStation integration to help streamline the fulfillment process.  Didn’t trust the site with credit card information (25%):  After seeing countless consumer data breaches in the news, customers may be hesitant to input their financial information on smaller business websites. Alleviate these concerns by offering alternative payment options, like PayPal or Google Pay, which hide payment information from merchants. If you use Wix Payments, you can let customers know that they’re protected by PCI Compliance, the highest marker of  eCommerce website security. Checkout process was too long or complicated (22%): Even customers who make it through lengthy checkout processes will likely feel agitated, so streamlining it is just as much a matter of user experience as it is about lowering your abandoned cart rate. Do your best to simplify form fields and condense the process to fit on a single page ( Wix checkout customizations  can be useful on this front). Offer express payment methods like those mentioned in the last bullet.  Total cost was hidden (21%): Customers want to know the total amount they’ll need to spend on shipping, fees and taxes before they enter all their information. Be transparent by displaying any extra costs as early as possible in the checkout process. Don’t forget to send emails that can help you recover abandoned orders. Learn how to set up and automate abandoned cart emails in Wix . 05. Test pricing strategies When it comes to pricing on your eCommerce site, small adjustments can make a big difference. It’s a good idea to run tests that can help you understand what offers or prices resonate with your customers without guessing. This is part of learning how to make money online . Ultimately, you’ll want to find that sweet spot where your prices aren’t too low that they cut into your margins or too high that they drive shoppers away.  There are several pricing methods worth testing:  Subscription pricing: Subscription pricing is a win-win for customers and merchants—you get recurring revenue, while customers receive convenience at a good price. For example, a feminine hygiene brand might give customers a 5% discount on each box of tampons via its tampon subscription service.  Odd-even pricing:  This popular technique suggests that prices that end in an odd number (e.g., $3.07) subconsciously signal a deal, while prices that end in an even number (e.g., $100.00) signal a luxury item. Additionally, prices that end in a 9, such as $2.99 or $29, tend to sell better than prices that are rounded up, such as $3 or $30. Pre-order pricing: Pre-order pricing lets you gauge customer demand before fully launching a product, allowing you to adjust prices based on early interest. Offering a discount for pre-orders can encourage commitment while giving you insights into how much people are willing to pay for your product. Learn how to activate pre-orders in Wix .  Comparative pricing: Help customers understand how good of a deal they’re getting by showing the original price slashed out right next to the new price. You can use this eCommerce optimization technique to price sales or clearance items or show how your prices compare to your competition. Decoy pricing: It’s said that when presented with two options, customers gravitate toward the cheaper option. When presented with three options, they tend to choose the more expensive option. Therefore, adding a third option can steer customers toward the more expensive product. Bulk discount: Mimic brands like Costco incentivize customers to spend more by offering a lower price per unit when they buy large quantities of a single item. This convinces customers to buy more in one go, which saves them money and boosts your business's sales. Price anchoring: Experiment with how you organize products on category pages to take advantage of anchoring, which is the practice of displaying products side by side to create context and perceived value. Bundle pricing: Increase your average order value (AOV) by bundling products together and offering them at a discount. Customers will love the deal they’re getting, especially if you compare the individual item prices to the bundle pricing. Gift cards, discounts and coupons: Encourage repeat purchases with one of these classic strategies. These types of incentives give shoppers a reason to spend more money while letting them decide to redeem their savings. Explore how gifts cards work on Wix , or how to offer discounts and coupons on your Wix site . Upsell/cross-sell: Upselling and cross-selling are great ways to increase order value by offering customers related or higher-end products as they shop. By suggesting complementary items or premium upgrades, you can enhance their shopping experience while growing your overall sales. Add a related products gallery  or integrate ReConvert  with your Wix site to cross-sell and upsell your customers intelligently.  06. Give your customers all the info they need In a brick-and-mortar setting, customers can touch an item, hold it, test it out, try it on and ask a sales associate any pressing questions.  When it comes to your online store, it helps to mimic this in-person shopping experience by giving customers all the information they need upfront. To this end, optimize each part of your product pages, including: Photos:  Upload photos from multiple angles. Include full-product images and close-ups. If the product is wearable, show models of different sizes wearing it. Stage the product to show customers how to use it or how to pair it with complementary products. View more  eCommerce photography  tips. Description: If customers couldn’t see the product, how would you describe it? Mention features that aren’t shown in the images as well as those that are. Include SEO keywords to make your product easier to find. Instructions: If applicable, explain how to use your product. What might be obvious to you might not be obvious to your customers. If relevant, include assembly instructions. Think beyond words when it comes to instructions. Videos or graphics can help customers visualize your products and how to use them. Shipping and return information: Hidden shipping pricing and speeds are one of the top reasons customers abandon carts, according to the same Baymard study mentioned earlier. To mitigate this, provide essential shipping information along with links to comprehensive policies on every product page. Materials: What are your products made of? List the materials in clothing, jewelry or home goods, as well as the ingredients in food and skincare products. Sizes or measurements: For wearable products, include a size guide on each product page to help customers find the right fit and reduce returns. For other types of products, like furniture, tools or appliances, provide as many product measurements as possible. Diagrams can be helpful in either case. Reviews:  Customer reviews help potential customers learn even more about your products, such as sizing or troubleshooting advice. Highlight testimonials, awards and other proof points on your site—or encourage users to leave their own reviews. Wix users can find various solutions in the Wix App Market  for showcasing and collecting feedback. Back-in-stock or pre-order status: Prominently display the in-stock status of your product. If a product is out of stock, consider giving your buyers the option to join your email list (see how to create back-in-stock notifications in Wix ) or pre-order your item on the spot.  Create an online store  with Wix today, or explore other clever eCommerce merchandising  techniques. 07. Track analytics and eCommerce metrics regularly Sales figures alone can’t give you a full picture of how your business is doing, especially online. Website-related analytics can help you fill in the blanks by pointing out obstacles that are getting in the way of the shopping experience.  Here’s a list of eCommerce KPIs and reports worth monitoring. All of these are available in Wix Analytics—track these to keep a pulse on any issues or disruptions on your site.  Traffic: Traffic indicates how many people visit your website. The goal is to have more and more traffic over time while maintaining a steady conversion rate.  To drive traffic to your online store , invest in SEO, advertising and email marketing. Conversion rate: Conversion rate measures what percentage of website visitors complete an intended action, such as making a purchase or signing up for a newsletter. If your conversion rate falls below the industry average, check for patterns in cart abandonment on your site. The culprit could be a complicated checkout flow or a slow-loading site.  Average order value (AOV): AOV measures how much your customers typically spend when they purchase something from your website. Compare your website’s AOV month over month or quarter over quarter, and look for any patterns. A decline in AOV could mean that it’s time to implement some upselling and cross-selling strategies or special deals. Bounce rate: Bounce rate measures the percentage of visits to your website that ended after just one page. A bounce rate between  20% and 45%  is common for eCommerce websites . A lower bounce rate is better than a higher one, so if yours falls above this range, check that your pages have enough relevant and engaging content (among other things).  Customer lifetime value (CLV or LTV): CLV measures how much a customer has spent on your eCommerce website over their entire relationship with your brand. Calculate your average CLV and use it as a benchmark. If this benchmark drops over time, employ retention marketing strategies to keep customers coming back for more. You could, for example, introduce a loyalty program that gamifies shopping and rewards customers for their patronage. Wix merchants can use  Wix Loyalty Program  to let customers accrue points that they can redeem for coupons. Slow-moving inventory:  If your analytics tool has a slow-moving inventory report, use it to identify products that have been sitting on your digital “shelves” for too long. Get these products moving by putting them on sale, placing them in your clearance section or bundling them with more popular products. Sales by product category: This eCommerce report can help you understand which types of products perform best on your website. Use these insights to determine which inventory to reorder and which categories to expand. For example, if your online store focuses on suitcases but you see that travel accessory sales are outperforming suitcase sales, you might decide to introduce new accessories to your inventory. Email marketing: Keep an eye on the performance of your marketing emails, such as your abandoned cart ones. There are several metrics that can be useful on this front: open rate, click-through rate and unsubscribe rate—just to name a few. A low open rate could indicate a need for stronger headlines, while a low click-through rate could warrant stronger CTAs and active copy. (Learn how to set up abandoned cart emails in Wix  or see how to integrate Klaviyo  with Wix for more advanced email needs.)  08. Personalize the shopping experience Use the data you already have to make each visitor feel like your store was built just for them. Show recommended products based on what they’ve browsed or purchased before. For example, if someone buys running shoes, highlight matching socks, water bottles or fitness gear on their next visit. Personalization doesn’t have to be complicated—even a “recently viewed” section can guide customers back to products they were interested in. Email and onsite messages can also be tailored. Send targeted promotions or product suggestions based on a shopper’s past behavior. For instance, if a customer frequently buys skincare items, offer them a discount on a new moisturizer or highlight a best-seller they haven’t tried. Wix users can integrate apps or use built-in features to automate personalized email campaigns making it easy to reach each customer with relevant offers. Dynamic content on your site helps increase engagement and conversion rates. Swap banners, pop-ups or homepage sections to reflect the visitor’s location, interests or shopping history. A returning visitor from New York might see a “Free shipping in NYC” banner while someone browsing winter gear in December sees seasonal promotions. 09. Experiment with classic sales strategies One way to get more people to complete their purchase is by promoting special deals clearly on your site. For example, flash sales and countdown banners create a sense of urgency; people are more likely to click “buy” when they feel time is running out. Meanwhile, you can use lightboxes or other pop-up messages that promote special offers and events, such as an end-of-season sale. Learn more: Setting up a lightbox in the Wix Editor  or integrating a countdown timer on your Wix Site Another easy way to keep your site engaging is by updating its design to match the time of year. For holidays like Christmas, you can use festive colors, promoted limited-edition products or add seasonal graphics to give your site a warm, holiday feel.  When Black Friday comes around, try bold, eye-catching banners that highlight deals. These changes don’t need to be huge, but they can make your site feel more relevant and timely—and put your customers in the shopping spirit.  Don't miss out on maximizing your seasonal sales: Check out the ultimate eCommerce holiday readiness checklist and get your business holiday-ready today. Ecommerce website optimization quick checklist When all is said and done, there are many different ways to tweak your website. Not all the tips listed above are must-dos, but at minimum, you’ll want to make sure to tick these off your list:  Type of eCommerce website Optimization strategies All eCommerce sites Use clear CTAs, fast-loading pages, SEO-friendly product pages, simple checkout, detailed product info, track analytics, personalize shopping experience, test pricing strategies, run seasonal or limited-time promotions Fashion & apparel Add size guides, high-quality images, personalized product suggestions, seasonal promotions Electronics & gadgets Show detailed specs, create comparison charts, offer upsells and cross-sells Health & beauty Highlight customer reviews, offer subscriptions, suggest related products Home & furniture Include measurement guides, bundle products, show shipping info Food & beverage Show ingredients and expiration dates, suggest related items Sports & outdoors Add gear guides, cross-sell accessories, highlight reviews, run flash sales Books & media Make search easy, bundle products, offer discounts Toys & kids Include age guides, multiple images, seasonal promotions Ecommerce website optimization FAQ What is eCommerce optimization? Ecommerce optimization refers to the practice of improving your online store to drive more sales. Examples of optimizations include increasing site speed, implementing SEO, simplifying your checkout flow and testing various pricing strategies. Why does eCommerce optimization matter? Ecommerce optimizations matter because they can help your business sell more, gain customers and make more money overall. By auditing your website’s performance before optimizing it, you can figure out where to best invest your time and resources. How is conversion rate calculated? Conversion rate is calculated by dividing the number of conversions visitors complete on your website by the number of website visitors. A conversion happens when visitors take a specific action on your website, such as adding a product to their cart or signing up for your email list. More often than not, however, sales are the main conversion goal for eCommerce websites.  What is a good eCommerce conversion rate? While eCommerce conversion rates vary by industry, the rule of thumb is that the more expensive the item, the lower the conversion rate. According to Kibo Commerce , for example, food and beverage conversion rates hover around 4.9% while home and furniture conversion rates are 1.4% on average.  What are the factors in eCommerce website optimization? Ecommerce website optimization involves enhancing factors such as website design, user experience and page load speed. Additionally, effective product categorization and search functionality play crucial roles in optimizing the user journey. Furthermore, the use of persuasive product descriptions and high-quality images can significantly impact conversion rates on an eCommerce website.

Turn your ideas into income with Wix. Secure your domain name → In the art of photography, the lens through which you see the world can also be the key to bringing home a profit. Whether you're a seasoned shutterbug or just learning your way around a camera, the potential to turn your favorite hobby into a lucrative money-maker is well within your reach. We'll guide you through 19 unique options to carve out a niche and make money as a photographer. No matter if your skill lies in portraits, landscapes, events or another specialty, there’s an opportunity for you to capitalize on it by starting a photography business . So, grab your camera, adjust your aperture and get ready to see your profits click into place. Take a shot at creating a professional photography portfolio website  with Wix. The fastest way to start making money online is by securing a domain name that fits your brand. With Wix, you can register your domain easily, establish your brand and take the first step toward building a website that attracts customers and generates revenue.  19 ways to make money as a photographer Photograph small businesses   Teach a photography class   Sell prints of your work   Open a print on demand shop   Sell your photos on stock websites   Create a photography blog   Conduct photography tours and workshops   Become a social media maven   Sell photos to magazines   Shoot portraits   Shoot events   Enter photo contests   Get gigs as an assistant photographer   Edit or retouch others’ photos   Shoot fancy cars or motorcycles   Master aerial photography with a drone   Help showcase houses for sale   Offer time-lapse photography   Become a food photographer   01. Photograph small businesses What’s one thing (nearly) everyone needs right after they start a business ? They all need a business website , and websites stand out from the competition when they’re filled with beautiful images. Hair salons, plumbers, yoga instructors, you name it—they all need images showcasing their offerings or staff members. This is where you come in. Start locally. Take a look around your neighborhood or city and speak to business owners in an informal way about what you do, and how you can help them attract more clients with professional-quality photos. Bring a tablet or laptop to show off your online portfolio examples, as people will want to see examples of your work. Don’t neglect online search, either. Not only should you search online for clients, but you should position yourself to be found by clients searching for you, as well. Understanding local SEO is key in order to become an established presence in local online search. A good starting place is to use relevant keywords across your website (such as “business photographer in [city]”) and make sure your name, address and phone number (NAP) are clearly listed on your contact page. You should also claim your Google Business Profile . What’s in a name? Try the Photography Business Name Generator  for instant inspiration. 02. Teach a photography class If you’ve been a photographer for a fair amount of time, you’ve undoubtedly acquired tons of valuable tips and techniques that less experienced photographers would love to hear about. You can turn this knowledge into a business idea  and share your expertise with others. You can offer in-person lessons locally at community centers, public parks or your own studio space (if you have one). If virtual is the way you prefer to go, you can create an online course  and teach folks from all over the world about your favorite photography tips. You can use Wix Bookings  to schedule one-on-one appointments, group sessions, classes and workshops, plus accept secure payments and offer memberships online. 03. Sell prints of your work Selling prints is a fantastic—and classic—way to turn a photography passion into profit. To get started, curate an assortment of images that best resonates with your intended target audience. Focus on your strongest, most high-resolution work as you build that catalog. Next, decide on the types of prints you want to offer, such as canvas prints, framed prints or posters. Ensure the format complements your photography style (for example, fitting a wide landscape vista fully into a horizontal print size). Partner with a reliable printing service to maintain top quality, and invest in proper packaging for protection and presentation. Setting up an online store is crucial here; you can create your own eCommerce website or use an online marketplace like Etsy to sell your work. Be sure to include high-resolution images and detailed descriptions of each print. Additionally, you can sell your work in local art shows or exhibitions in your area. Start selling—launch your online store  today with Wix. 04. Open a print on demand shop Would some of your photos look really good on a t-shirt, travel mug or iPhone case? If so, there’s a fairly simple way to kick off another eCommerce opportunity. And, best of all, it’s a business that runs itself . Print on demand (POD) lets you open an online store without the hassle of inventory management. You’ll first need to find a reliable POD provider—like Printful , which integrates with Wix. From there, it’s a matter of simply uploading your images to the platform and choosing which products to print them on, from canvas totes to fridge magnets and more. Your POD partner will handle all of the fulfillment and shipping for you, taking a percentage of the sales. Creating and selling custom products has never been easier. With Wix’s on demand printing , powered by Printful, you can design and launch personalized apparel, accessories, home goods and more—made to suit any style, niche or need. No extra tools, no complex setup. Just pick a product, upload your design and start selling—all from your Wix dashboard. With seamless Printful integration, you get a streamlined way to build, brand and sell—without ever leaving Wix. Launch your print on demand  business with Wix. 05. Sell your photos on stock websites If you have a sizable portfolio, you could try your hand selling your work on stock photo websites like iStock, Shutterstock and BigStock as a passive income idea . The commission per download depends on the platform, the type of license and many other factors. In most cases, these commissions are relatively low, so you’re unlikely to replace a full-time income with your earnings, but it can be a fun side hustle . Photutorial  estimates that royalty-free sales can earn anywhere between $0.10 and $99.50, while extended licenses can fetch up to $500. If you want to make the most money, you should focus on ultra-high quality images and regularly upload fresh content to the platform. Stock sites require you to sign up first, and your work will need to be approved by the platform. Make sure to carefully read the guidelines, as some platforms forbid you to submit the same images to competitors. Once you’re registered, you should optimize your listings with relevant keywords that answer any possible queries someone would be using to look for a photo like yours. 06. Create a photography blog Are you full of expert opinions, shareable tips and industry insight? Start a photography blog . Blogging will help establish you as an expert in the field and is a smart SEO strategy for photographers. It can also be used to generate a profit. As one option, you can place ads in your content, getting paid every time a visitor clicks on an ad from your blog. Additionally, you can place referral or affiliate links in your posts, where you receive a commission every time a visitor clicks through and makes a purchase. For example, if you recommend a flash diffuser on Amazon, and you’re an Amazon affiliate, any reader who buys through your link will earn you some money. If you have a large enough following, you may even be offered payment for featured posts or reviews about a dedicated product from a photography brand. Whichever option you decide to go with, you’ll need to generate strong, steady traffic if you want to make substantial money from this venture. This means you’ll need to publish high-quality content frequently and regularly. Start a blog  in a few clicks with Wix. 07. Conduct photography tours and workshops Do you know your hometown, local landmarks and historically-significant spaces like the back of your hand? You might want to think about becoming a tour guide. But, not just any tour guide: a photography tour guide. Vacationers and even locals are always on the look out for authentic experiences. You can offer to lead them through the maze of your city (or any other specific location) and teach them how to photograph it best. Pair up with travel agencies, join travel photographers and tourist groups on social media, and make sure your website is completely up to date. Like noted Netherlands-based landscape photographer (and Wix user) Albert Dros , entice your readers with a complete description of the photo tour in a professional yet casual manner, and add a few images to show what they can expect to see. Dros notes what to expect in an upcoming Tuscany workshop: “Early sunrises, morning fog, cats (yes, there are lots of them) and great food!” 08. Become a social media maven Like the rest of us, you probably started small on social media with a few likes from your friends and your mom’s comments under every post. Since then, maybe you’ve learned how to use social media like a professional and you now have a large collection of followers eager to see your every post. It might not sound obvious, but that’s something that you can leverage into an online business idea . Collaborating with brands and influencers is a popular practice in social media marketing. With a large enough following, you can start receiving offers to promote products, review new gear or even attend big industry events. Since you don’t want your social profiles to look like a holiday catalog, don’t jump on every single offer. Make sure your posts benefit the company you work with, but also genuinely interest and relate to your community. 09. Sell photos to magazines Between print and online formats, there are more magazines in the world than can be counted. There’s a magazine for just about every hobby, profession or topic you can think of, and no magazine goes without images. This could be a potential money-making opportunity for you. As a photographer, your work could range from covering events to shooting portraits for an interview to documenting a breaking news story. Working for magazines requires you to build a network and make a name for yourself in the industry. It’s highly recommended to start small and target local and regional publications first before reaching out to the big brands. 10. Shoot portraits Back in the day, portrait photographers needed a studio. Fortunately, you can succeed just fine without one now. Many clients like (or even prefer) outdoor or on-location portrait sessions, so you’ll find countless backdrop opportunities around your local area. As a real-life example, Wix user Captured by Cassy  has perfected this niche offering beautiful maternity, newborn, family and senior portrait photography around her scenic Snohomish, Washington home. A pro tip: don’t limit yourself to human portraits. Plenty of pet owners would love a portrait of their favorite fur baby and pay for the eye of a professional photographer. 11. Shoot events It’s one of the most tried-and-true ways to make money as a photographer. Weddings, bar mitzvahs, birthdays, corporate parties—if there’s a reason to celebrate, there’s a reason to have photos of it. Event photography is physically demanding and can be exhausting, but there’s good money to be made. The amount you can charge mostly depends on your reputation and experience level, the scale of the event, the season and the location. When quoting your clients, it’s crucial that you take into account the hours of pre- and post-production work you will spend on their package—especially for weddings, where you may need to process thousands of photos after the event. As an event photographer, you’ll need a solid website. Your online portfolio should be strong, optimized for local search and ideally feature testimonials from happy customers. Word of mouth is also very valuable in securing new clients. If you have no experience here, try shadowing a seasoned photographer as a second shooter to build your portfolio. Make your website shine with a professionally-designed portfolio template  from Wix. 12. Enter photo contests A photo competition may not necessarily offer a cash prize; some competitions might grant gift cards, new gear or even just exposure to the winner. But, it’s still a viable option in leveraging your photography skills for some sort of reward. Do a simple Google search of “best photography contests [current year]” to see what options are available, when the deadlines are and what prizes are on the table. Some publications award multiple winners with tiered prizes that can range from a new Apple Watch to thousands of dollars. You shouldn’t rely on this option if you want to make a living as a photographer, but even if you don’t win, participating in a contest is a great way to make more connections in the industry and to have your work and website featured on external websites. It’s good for your exposure, your SEO and your reputation in the industry. 13. Get gigs as an assistant photographer Not booked on a specific date? Other photographers are, and they might need your help. Just like actors, taking on a supporting role can be a very rewarding (and lucrative) option. To start, you’ll make some decent money without having to deal with all the sales, marketing and other hassles of being the main contractor. If you’re assisting with something like a wedding, this also means avoiding all of the extensive post-processing that images will require. If you’re assisting because you don’t have enough experience yet to hack it on your own, this is a great  side business idea  to build your online portfolio  and network with other professionals. To get more of these types of offers, you’ll need to be active in your local photography circles. Join photographer clubs in your area, register for professional associations and don’t neglect photo groups on Facebook and other social media platforms.   14. Edit or retouch others’ photos From a model who wants to remove stubborn flyaway hairs to a hotel owner who needs their resort to look a little more sunny in photos, many people would—and do—pay to get their images professionally retouched. If you’re gifted with editing software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom, this presents an open door for you to make some extra bucks. You can easily work from home and at any moment of the day (or night), making it a perfect side activity for photographers. You could even market your services directly to other photographers who don’t have time to process their own images, such as high-volume commercial photographers. Before starting, use your photography website to feature before and after editing samples showcasing your capabilities. 15. Shoot fancy cars or motorcycles We all know that one person whose world revolves around their beloved car or motorcycle. They have countless snapshots of it on their phone, and they might even have some professional shots on hand, too. Why not swerve into this exciting field yourself? Car and bike enthusiasts (and manufacturers, at the higher level) are always on the lookout for striking images that highlight the beauty, performance and uniqueness of their vehicles. Take Wix user Will Pohlman  for example. Pohlman’s extensive portfolio showcases a number of high-performance vehicles at speed, parked up and even up close for details of the interior, engine and wheels. To excel in automotive photography, you must have a keen eye for details and understand more specialized shooting techniques, like light painting and intentional blur. You should know a thing or two about cars, too. This is a field that offers a blend of artistic expression and technical skill, so you’ll want to bring both to the table. 16. Master aerial photography with a drone Aerial photography is a newer niche that has taken off in recent years (no pun intended) with the popularity of drones. If you have a drone and the skills to pilot it, you can turn your airborne camera into a tool for profit. Drones equipped with high-quality cameras enable you to capture breathtaking landscapes, cityscapes and even events from unique angles. Real estate agencies, travel companies, couples getting married and event planners are just a few of the potential clients who could benefit from adding aerial shots to their collection. Note that there are some rules for drones established by the FAA for airspace safety. All drone pilots are required to pass The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) , which you can take online for free. Drones that weigh over 55 pounds, even if recreational, must be registered with the FAADroneZone . If you’re flying commercially, you’ll need to obtain a Part 107 license from the FAA as well. Add a smooth background gradient to make your design pop instantly. 17. Help showcase houses for sale Real estate photography is a consistently high-demand niche that can be a profitable avenue for you to explore. Whether you're capturing cozy homes or luxurious estates, agents are always looking for images that can play a vital role in attracting potential buyers. To succeed here, you should have a knack for capturing interiors and showcasing their various features in flattering ways, even in challenging situations such as dim lighting or small, oddly-shaped rooms. You should have professional lighting on hand and a dependable wide-angle lens. Understanding high dynamic range (HDR), which is commonly used for this type of photography, is another major plus. Networking with local real estate agents, brokers and property developers can help you quickly establish a steady stream of clients. 18. Offer time-lapse photography Time-lapse photography is a beautiful technique that condenses hours, days or even months into captivating short videos or sequences. Time-lapse videos are fairly popular for things like marketing campaigns, construction documentation and creative projects. Whether you're capturing the growth of a plant, the renovation of a building or the passage of time in a bustling city, your time-lapse skills can find a wide range of creative clients. This is another avenue that will require some advanced technical skill, but it can be a really unique option that sets you apart from the crowd. Apart from a decent camera, you’ll need a tripod and an intervalometer to measure the time. 19. Become a food photographer Who isn’t mesmerized looking at pictures of delicious food? Food photography offers a myriad of unique business ideas  for photographers. You can find work locally with restaurants, food trucks or catering services that need help showing off their menus online, or you can go the commercial route and work with bigger brands, grocery stores or food bloggers. Styling food is as much of an art as shooting it, so you’ll want to be skilled in this area. Note Wix user Imagery of Food  as an example; dishes should be perfectly plated, free of splatters or spills, and expertly framed to show off the best bite. This is all showcased with precision in Imagery of Food’s portfolio. Lighting, color correction and post processing treatment are also key skills you’ll need, as it’s critical to make the food look as natural and appetizing as possible. Getting started is as easy as visiting a few local eateries and asking if they could use some professional food photography. Once you get a portfolio established and word of mouth spreads, more clients will come knocking. Learn more: Is Wix good for photographers? How much money can you make as a photographer? Like most self-directed businesses, the amount of money you can make as a photographer will vary depending on a number of factors, including your skill level, business model, equipment and availability. Below are a few general ballparks to give you a realistic idea: Portrait photographer:  Portrait photographers often charge anywhere from $150 to $370 per hour , depending on their expertise, location and the number of people (e.g., senior portrait vs. family portrait). Wedding photographer: Wedding photographers command a broad price range starting at $1,000 to $3,000 per wedding . In big cities or popular wedding destinations, prices can reach significantly higher than that. Note that add-ons like prints, photo albums or online galleries can impact your pricing, too. Photo retoucher:  Photo retouchers can earn between $20 per hour to over $150 per hour , depending on their skill level and the complexity of the job. Commercial photographer:  Commercial photographers working on advertising campaigns or product shoots can earn anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 per gig or more . Real estate photographer:  Real estate photographers typically charge around $150 to $350 per hour . Some opt to charge per property instead. Stock photo photographer: Income from stock photography varies widely. Successful contributors can earn anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per month. Create a website for free with Wix and watch the profits roll in.