How to Run a Shopify Store

Co-authored by Melissa Rodriguez and Janice Tieperman

Last Updated: July 20, 2022 References

Shopify is a great way to bring your small business idea to life. However, this platform can be a bit daunting, especially if you don’t have a lot of e-commerce experience. Not to worry—we’ve outlined all your burning questions so you can put your best foot forward in your new business venture.

Question 1 of 6:

How much does it cost to run a Shopify store?

A basic account costs $29 a month. This gives you essential features, like unlimited product listings, 2 staff accounts, and constant support from the Shopify team. For extra features, you can set up a standard Shopify account, which is $79 a month, or an advanced account, which is $299 per month.^{[1]
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- Standard and advanced accounts give you extra features, and help you manage a bigger business.

Question 2 of 6:

Is starting a Shopify store worth it?

It can be if you put in the work. Running a successful Shopify store involves a lot of planning and research, both before and after your shop launches. If you’re in it for the long haul, a Shopify store could be a worthy investment. However, it might not be a great option if you’re looking for some quick cash.^{[2]
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Question 3 of 6:

How do I run a successful Shopify store?

1
Do the necessary groundwork before you launch. Take as much time as you need to develop your website. Also, market your store with paid campaigns and search engine optimization (SEO).^{[3]
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Create a social media presence. Social media is a great way to market yourself and network with potential customers. Along with your regular Shopify store, create profiles on popular sites, like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.^{[4]
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3
Put the customer first. Create a shopping environment that really appeals to potential customers, like reasonable prices and free shipping. Make their shopping experience even better with a mobile site that’s easy to navigate.^{[5]
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Question 4 of 6:

How can my store make a lot of money?

Create a defined brand. Think about the kind of message you want to give customers, and how you can best communicate it. Narrow down a simple but sleek brand design, and revolve your entire business around this brand. A coherent brand identity can give you a loyal customer base, and allow you to raise the prices of your listings in the future.^{[6]
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Question 5 of 6:

Why do Shopify stores fail?

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Your products don’t fit the store’s niche. A successful store requires a lot of research and insight, and really understanding what your potential customers are looking for. If your store sells products that don’t meet the customers’ needs, then your shop won’t grow or succeed.^{[8]
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2
Your store isn’t trustworthy. Simple issues like spelling errors, low-quality product pictures, and differing fonts can make your store look sketchy and fake. When customers see these issues, they may not trust or shop from your store.^{[9]
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Customers don’t come back after making a purchase. Poor customer service and low customer satisfaction can really impact your store’s success. If you don’t respond to your customer’s issues efficiently, your shop may pay the price.^{[10]
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Question 6 of 6:

Can you really make money dropshipping on Shopify?

You can, but it might take some time. Dropshipping is when a third-party handles and ships your products instead of you. Dropshipping can save you a lot of money and extra fees, but it also increases your potential competition. Since dropshipping is so economical, other sellers will sell similar products for low prices, making it hard to generate a real profit.^{[11]
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