How do I create discount codes for my online store?
Discount codes are a fantastic tool to boost sales, attract new customers, and reward your loyal customers. Imagine being able to offer "10% off your first order" or "Free shipping on purchases over $50" – that's exactly what discount codes make possible.
Maybe you think it sounds technical and difficult? Don't worry! Modern online store systems are built to make it easy for everyone, even those without technical skills, to set up and manage discount codes.
How to create discount codes – step by step
The process of creating a discount code is typically very straightforward on most user-friendly online store platforms. You don't need to be an IT expert to get started.
On a user-friendly platform like GoShup.com, it's made extremely simple to create and manage discount codes. Here you typically just need to follow a couple of intuitive steps in your administration panel:
- Log in: Go to your administration panel on your online store.
- Find "Discount codes": Look for a menu item that says something like "Discount codes", "Campaigns", or "Offers".
- Create new discount code: Click on "Create new discount code" or a similar button.
- Fill in details: Here you need to give your discount code a name (e.g., "SUMMER20"), choose discount type, and set any conditions.
- Save and activate: When you're satisfied, save the discount code, and then it's ready to use.
Types of discount codes – which should you choose?
There are different types of discount codes, and your choice depends on your purpose:
- Percentage discount: Gives a certain percentage off the price (e.g., 10% off). Good for giving a general savings.
- Fixed amount: Deducts a certain amount from the total price (e.g., $50 off). Can feel more concrete for the customer.
- Free shipping: Removes shipping costs for the customer. Super effective, as many customers hate paying for shipping.
Settings for your discount codes – give them the right rules
To make your discount codes effective and ensure they're used as intended, you can often add various settings:
- Minimum purchase: The discount only applies if the customer buys for a certain amount or more. Good for increasing the average order value.
- Expiration date: Set a date when the discount code stops working. Creates a sense of urgency.
- Number of times the code can be used: Limit how many times the code can be redeemed in total or per customer.
- Applies only to specific products/categories: If you only want to give discount on selected goods, you can often set this.
- Applies only to new customers: A good way to attract first-time buyers.
How to get discount codes out to your customers
A discount code is only good if your customers know about it! Here are a few ideas on how you can promote your codes:
- Pop-up on your online store: Offer a discount code to new visitors who sign up for your newsletter.
- Newsletter: Send exclusive discount codes to your subscribers.
- Social media: Share codes on Facebook, Instagram, or other relevant platforms.
- Direct to customers: Include a discount code in your order confirmation for use on next purchase as thanks.
- Physical flyers: If you participate in markets or have a physical store.
With these simple steps, you're well on your way to using discount codes as a powerful tool in your online store!