Communication skills and market characteristics between cross-border e-commerce and Australian customers
Australian market overview
As a highly developed capitalist country, Australia mainly exports agricultural products and various minerals. The Internet penetration rate is as high as 85%. It has a population of approximately 24 million, of which 21 million are Internet users. In 2016, the Australian economy grew by 2.4% year-on-year, the retail industry grew by 3%, and e-commerce revenue reached US$19 billion, a year-on-year growth of 9%. It is worth noting that about 69% of online shoppers tend to shop through cross-border e-commerce platforms, with the main source countries including the United States (40%), China (32%) and the United Kingdom (22%).
Customer search and communication
Looking for customers
In the process of finding customers, different methods are suitable for different people. Some people are good at using Google search, some are good at platform operations, and some may prefer social media promotion. The important thing is to find a method that suits you and constantly optimize and adjust your strategy.
Communication skills
Communication ability is a key factor affecting business results. First of all, you must have confidence in the products you make; secondly, you must have an in-depth understanding of your products; in addition, full preparation is the prerequisite for successful communication.
Australians value equality and do not like to give orders to others. They advocate friendliness, humility and courteousness, value public ethics, have strong organizational discipline and a strong sense of time, attend appointments on time and cherish time. When meeting an Australian for the first time, greetings and greetings can be casual and don’t need to be formal. But in business situations, it is best to address the other person by his or her title and surname to show respect.
Business etiquette
Although Australians have a more leisurely lifestyle, they pay great attention to punctuality. They view being late or not completing tasks on time as unprofessional, which can lead to negative reviews.
Market characteristics
Internet penetration rate is high and customers have strong purchasing power
Australia has a high Internet penetration rate, and mobile use has become the first choice for many Australians. In 2016, 73% of Australian customers connected to the Internet through mobile phones, and more than 90% of people under the age of 49 used mobile phones to access the Internet.
Focus on product quality and brand
Australians are not particularly price-sensitive. They pay special attention to product quality, are willing to pay for high-quality goods and services, and value brand and value. Toys and clothing are the main categories of goods purchased cross-border by Australian netizens.
Highly active on social platforms
Social media is increasingly relevant to the development of online shopping, and those engaged in cross-border e-commerce should also be committed to using social media for product marketing. In Australia, social media activity is very high.
Payment method
In Australia, online shopping is mainly based on traditional payment methods. About 85% of Australians use credit cards and debit cards when shopping online.
Logistics and distribution
Due to its vast territory and sparsely populated areas, Australian consumers are willing to accept longer delivery times and higher postage costs, and demand is concentrated in urban agglomerations on the east coast. There is no way to track ordinary mail packages, and the delivery efficiency is very low.
Conclusion
In summary, understanding the characteristics of the Australian market is crucial for cross-border e-commerce. By mastering effective customer search methods and communication skills, combined with the preferences and habits of Australian consumers, we can better develop this market.