what is it like to work as an e-commerce manager?
The e-commerce manager is responsible for a retailer's online sales presence and for improving it. They can work in any industry that sells products or services online. Their role involves managing online sales platforms to ensure customers can easily browse and purchase items. They must also ensure that the website meets the needs and preferences of customers, which includes taking customer feedback into account.
what does an e-commerce manager do?
In the digital realm, an e-commerce manager plays a crucial role in enhancing online presence and boosting sales. They assist their employer in selecting products to sell, and are involved in managing returns. They develop and design the store’s appearance, choose the best collections, and collaborate with various departments.
Some companies choose to outsource the role of e-commerce manager instead of hiring someone in-house. In both cases, the person filling this position performs similar tasks. Although e-commerce managers typically fall under the marketing department, their main focus is on conversion. This means their job is to attract customers and encourage purchases through campaigns, compelling content, and effective SEO strategies.
An e-commerce manager can work at marketing agencies, tech companies, manufacturing firms, or retail businesses. Whether the company offers e-commerce services or sells specific products directly to customers, their role is to help the business stand out. The job is data-driven, focusing on analyzing information to find innovative ways to attract customers. Therefore, success requires an analytical, data-oriented mindset.
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average salary of an e-commerce manager.
Our salary calculator allows you to explore pay ranges and see how much a beginner or experienced e-commerce manager earns.
In addition to the base salary, most employers also offer other benefits to their employees, such as health insurance or housing allowances. Since e-commerce managers can work remotely, some companies may also provide support for internet and other utility subscriptions.
Want to know how much an e-commerce manager earns? check out our salary calculator!
salary calculatorhow can you earn more as an e-commerce manager?
The e-commerce manager's salary can also depend on the revenue generated from online sales. Their level of experience is equally crucial in determining their base pay. After all, with many years of experience, they may achieve higher conversion rates and sales figures.
The size of a company can also impact earning opportunities. For example, a company with a large online store might offer higher pay due to the need to coordinate more complex processes, compared to someone working at a smaller e-commerce business.
types of e-commerce manager positions.
E-commerce managers can specialize in the following areas:
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B2B e-commerce manager: responsible for selling products or services to other businesses or companies. The sales cycle is typically longer than when selling directly to consumers, but it often involves more repeat purchases and larger order values.
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B2C e-commerce manager: responsible for selling products directly to consumers through the online store. Since the purchase decision is made by the consumer, the sales cycle is usually shorter, but the order value tends to be lower compared to B2B transactions.
- C2C e-commerce manager: works on an online marketplace that allows consumers to sell products directly to other consumers. The C2C e-commerce manager's role is to ensure that the platform facilitates smooth transactions for both buyers and sellers.
working as an e-commerce manager.
The job of an e-commerce manager involves staying up-to-date with the latest technology and utilizing it effectively to provide the best possible experience for online users. Learn about the specific responsibilities, work environment, and daily schedule of an e-commerce manager.
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responsibilities of an e-commerce manager
The responsibilities of the e-commerce manager include, among other things:
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Web development supervision: responsible for the design and development of the website. Their role is to ensure that the webshop provides an excellent user interface and experience for customers. If they lack a background in web development, they can collaborate with the development team to enhance the website’s appearance and layout, improving the overall user experience. They must also ensure that the e-commerce platform offers quick and easy access to products and transactions.
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Team management: In typical e-commerce teams, you'll usually find content editors, web analysts, designers, and content creators. The e-commerce manager oversees these teams, assigning tasks and supervising team members to ensure everyone fulfills their responsibilities.
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Designing marketing campaigns and strategies: responsible for developing the digital marketing strategy to enhance product visibility and increase conversion rates. The marketing plan should identify areas needing improvement and outline campaigns to boost sales. Additionally, it must include a search engine optimization (SEO) strategy to ensure the website ranks well and attracts sufficient traffic.
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Studying the company's customers and products: it’s essential to understand the products being sold, as well as the customers and their profiles. If the company hasn't yet developed a customer profile, that will be part of your responsibilities. Additionally, you should create product descriptions that clearly explain the benefits of the products to consumers.
- Knowledge of e-commerce systems: you need to oversee search engine optimization, customer management systems, and online stores. This requires understanding how these systems work for example, how the payment system functions so that customer service teams or shoppers can be assisted in case of issues. Additionally, it is your responsibility to train e-commerce teams on how to operate these systems.
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work environment
An e-commerce manager can work in any business sector that offers products or services digitally. Their typical work environment is an office setting, where they spend most of their day at their desk managing online sales and other services. Since most of their tasks are performed online, they can also work remotely from home or elsewhere. The role may involve minimal travel as well.
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who does an e-commerce manager work with?
The e-commerce manager's team may include content editors, technical writers, and software developers. They will likely also collaborate with videographers, graphic designers, and other specialists, such as project managers, sales directors, marketing managers, SEO experts, and digital marketers.
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working hours schedule
Most e-commerce managers don’t just work regular office hours, since customers shop online 24/7. If they manage a large team, they might stick to standard working hours. However, if their employer mainly relies on them to get tasks done, their work schedule can be more flexible, often extending into evenings and weekends. They need to be available whenever a customer needs assistance or when an issue arises in the e-commerce system. Some employers allow them to work part-time or on fixed-term contracts, especially when launching a new online marketplace. Additionally, some e-commerce managers work as freelancers.
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development opportunities
The e-commerce manager plays a crucial role in enhancing their employer's online visibility and increasing revenue. Additionally, there are various career paths and opportunities available to develop their skills. For example, they could become a digital marketing specialist, focusing on building the company's overall brand awareness. Some may choose to become social media managers, concentrating on sales through social platforms. If they wish to advance further and climb the career ladder, they have the potential to become a business development or sales director.
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why it's worth applying for an e-commerce manager position through randstad
There are several advantages to seeking an e-commerce manager position with the assistance of a Randstad consultant.
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a consultant with in-depth knowledge of the sales and marketing sector of the labor market supports the selection process
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you can find a wide range of job opportunities on our website
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whether you're looking for a fixed-term or indefinite position, we help you find the job that best fits you
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required studies and skills.
studies.
To work as an e-commerce manager, it's essential to acquire the necessary professional knowledge. It is advisable to choose one of the following training programs to get started:
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basic degree
Companies hire e-commerce managers regardless of their educational background, but having a bachelor's or master's degree in marketing, business management, or digital marketing can be an advantage. You can also complete courses that provide technical skills, such as web design or web development.
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training
Consider programs that offer practical skills in areas such as digital marketing, retail management, and logistics management. These can help you develop valuable abilities that improve your chances of securing a job.
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work experience
Practical experience is necessary to work in a leadership role. That’s why you can start in entry-level positions such as marketing, IT, or sales before advancing to an e-commerce manager role.
skills.
The following skills are essential for an e-commerce manager to perform their job effectively:
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organizational skills
The role of an e-commerce manager involves handling multiple tasks simultaneously, as they operate in a rapidly changing digital environment. Exceptional organizational abilities are essential to keep up with the demands of the job.
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digital skills
You need exceptional IT skills to provide support. You should understand web design, social media marketing, e-commerce laws, and search engine optimization.
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creativity
You need creativity to develop new ideas for promoting products and services. Since potential customers are bombarded with numerous advertisements, it's essential to be creative in capturing their attention.
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working in a team
It requires good collaboration skills to work effectively with various professional colleagues. Being a team player helps you communicate information clearly and listen to their ideas.
frequently asked questions.
We have compiled the most frequently asked questions regarding the e-commerce manager role:
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what is an e-commerce manager?
The e-commerce manager is the person responsible for overseeing online shopping, managing a company's online store. They ensure the platform runs smoothly and that customers receive the best possible service.
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what role does an e-commerce manager play?
The role of the e-commerce manager is to support online sales by developing promotions and enhancing the user experience.
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how can I become an e-commerce manager?
A degree in digital marketing or business management is required for this. Work experience in marketing or sales can further improve your career prospects.
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how can I become a good e-commerce manager?
A good e-commerce manager needs to be creative, a strong communicator, and well-organized. Additionally, they should be an excellent team player and a skilled negotiator.
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how can I apply for the e-commerce manager position?
Applying for an e-commerce manager position is easy: create your profile on Randstad, and browse our job offers near you. Once logged in, you can apply with just one click to the opportunity that interests you directly through our website!
