Ways eCommerce Businesses Can Start Catering To Asian Customers
If you’re an eCommerce brand that isn’t catering to your Asian customers, you’re missing out on a huge opportunity. Not only is the Asian market one of the fastest growing in the world, but Asians also have a higher disposable income than any other demographic. In other words, they’re spending money-and lots of it. So, how can you ensure you’re doing everything possible to cater to your Asian customers?
Ways Asians Differ From Other Shoppers
Though there are many similarities between Asians and other shoppers worldwide, there are also some key ways they differ. Here are a few key points to keep in mind
Asians Are Early Adopters of New Technology
People living in Asia love using tech to their advantage. They are often ahead of the curve when it comes to trends and what’s popular. They are into online shopping and social media and use their mobile devices to purchase items more than any other demographic.
They Place a High Value on Family and Community
This means they trust recommendations from friends and family more than they are advertising or marketing materials. However, this does not mean online reviews are not important to Asians. They’re often the second most trusted source of information after friends and family.
Asians Are Brand Loyal
Once Asian consumers find a brand they trust, they will likely stick with it for a long time. They value quality and customer service, so if you can provide both, you increase your chances of having a customer for life.
They Like To Receive Their Orders Fast And Are Willing To Pay For It
Asians love convenience and efficiency. They want to get their hands on the products they purchase as quickly as possible. Often, they are willing to pay a little extra to receive their orders faster.
How to Cater to Asian Customers
Now that you know a little bit more about what makes Asians tick, here are some specific ways you can start catering to them:
Invest in Your Website
You’re missing out on a big opportunity if you don’t have an Asia-Pacific section on your website. Adding an Asia-Pacific section can show your Asian customers that you value them and their business. Doing so will make them feel more comfortable doing business with you.
Include an Asia-Pacific customer service number and email address so they can easily get in touch with you if they have any questions or concerns. This will make them feel like you’re always available to help.
Remember to optimize your website for mobile devices. Asians use their mobile devices to purchase items more than any other demographic, so you want to make sure they can easily access your website and make purchases on their phones or tablets.
Consider Offering Localized Payment Options
Unlike many other countries, Asian countries often have their own unique payment methods. For example, Alipay and WeChat Pay are two of the most popular payment methods in China. In Japan, people often use a method called JCB. Most people use GCash or pay via cash or credit card in the Philippines.
To cater to Asians, you must offer localized payment options. This way, they can pay for your products and services in the most convenient way for them. If you don’t offer localized payment options, you can lose out on business from Asian customers.
Offer Reliable Shipping to Asian Countries
You can show Asians you care about their needs by offering reliable shipping to Asian countries. If possible, provide free shipping or discounted shipping to Asian countries. This will show them that you’re willing to go the extra mile to ensure they’re happy with their purchase.
Another option is to offer express shipping for an additional fee. This way, Asians can receive their orders as quickly as possible. Make sure you partner with a reputable shipping company they trust in their country. For example, if you are in Australia and plan on catering to Filipinos, make it a point to find a trusted carrier that allows you to send packages to the Philippines. By partnering with a shipping company your target audiences already trust and have many locations in your country and Asia, you can make their lives easier and show that you are providing a great customer experience. Do your research and find one with lots of good reviews to ensure you put your brand’s reputation in good hands.
Use Social Media To Reach Asian Customers
If you’re not already using social media to reach Asian customers, you’re missing out on a huge opportunity. Asians are some of the most active social media users in the world. Make sure to create social media accounts on the most popular platforms in Asia.
For example, in China, you should be on Weibo and WeChat. In Japan, you should be on LINE and Twitter. It would help if you were on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram when catering to clients in the Philippines.
Post engaging content that appeals to your target Asian audience. Use images and videos to get your message across. Also, use has to reach new people and get your content seen by more people.
Finally, make sure you’re active on social media. Respond to comments and messages promptly. This will show your Asian customers that you are providing excellent customer service.
Offer Personalized Experiences
One way to do this is by offering custom product bundles or package deals tailored specifically for them. Let’s say you sell beauty products. You could create a package that includes skincare, makeup, and hair care products that are popular in Asia. Or you could create a bundle of your best-selling products and offer it at a discounted price.
Another way to personalize the customer experience is by offering loyalty or rewards programs. If you show them that you appreciate their business, they will stick with you for the long haul.
Finally, consider offering customer support in Asian languages. This will show your Asian customers that you’re willing to go the extra mile to cater to their needs. Not everyone in Asia speaks English, so offering support in their native language will show them that you’re committed to providing a great customer experience.
Asians represent a huge opportunity for eCommerce brands-but only if you know how to cater to their specific needs and wants. Keep these tips in mind as you work on attracting and retaining Asian customers, and you’ll be well on your way to success!
