Intro to eCommerce for Bloggers (Summary) #SocialCafe 1.9

#SocialCafe Chat Topic: Intro to eCommerce for Bloggers

View the announcement for this #SocialCafe Chat..

1. Do you collect money (or want to) on your blog/site? (i.e. PayPal buttons)

Many people thing of eCommerce as only the large shopping sites. However, even a PayPal button is the beginning of eCommerce and there is no reason why a blogger couldn't have a shopping cart on their site to maximize the sale of different products and services. But, that said, it isn't for everyone and there may be some applications of collecting money that are better negotiated offline.

2. What is most important to you in a payment option on your site? Cost? Design?

There are any different things to consider when evaluating the payment options for your site. For example, ease of use, coding skill, design, and, as Brad Harmon brought up, security(!).

3. Do bloggers need robust payment solutions? Why or why not?

Yes, as Brad says, the level of "robust" is directly related to the needs of the blogger or site owner. In Sheryl's case, she has many pieces of art and wearable art, so it makes sense that a shopping cart system is handy for those who want to buy more than one product.

4. What payment processing, merchant solutions are there for bloggers? PayPal is example.

While PayPal certainly isn't the only option, it is a viable option as it is accessible to many.

Final Thoughts and Action Steps

One needs to find the balance that fits their needs. If a blogger or site owner is also accepting credit cards offline, especially for large amounts, then possibly a full merchant account is the best option and can be worked into their online solutions, as well. However, if a blogger has one ebook and no offline sales, then possibly PayPal is a better option.