How to Choose the Right Ecommerce Expert for Your Online Store

Building an online store today is easier than ever — but building one that actually sells is a different story. At 99 Ecommerce Experts, we’ve worked with startups, growing brands, and established retailers, and one thing is clear: the right ecommerce expert can make or break your business growth.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to identify and hire the right professional (or team) to take your store from “launched” to “profitable.”

1. Understand What an Ecommerce Expert Really Does

Many store owners think an ecommerce expert is simply someone who knows how to design a website. In reality, that’s only part of the job. A real expert is a strategic partner who:

Builds and optimizes your online store for sales, not just looks.
Understands your target audience and buyer behavior.
Implements SEO, conversion rate optimization, and marketing strategies.
Helps you choose the right platform (Shopify, WooCommerce, Magento, etc.) based on your needs.
Plans for scalability so your store grows with your business.

We’ve seen businesses invest in stunning websites that failed to convert — simply because they lacked the right sales strategy. A true expert sees the big picture.

2. Look for Proven Experience in Your Industry

If you sell fashion accessories, your challenges are different from a business selling industrial machinery. The right ecommerce expert will understand the specific needs of your niche.

At 99 Ecommerce Experts, we often share real case studies with clients before starting work. For example, when we worked with a skincare brand, our approach focused on visual storytelling and influencer marketing. But for a B2B electronics store, our strategy leaned heavily on technical SEO and complex product filtering.

When hiring, ask to see:

Case studies from your industry.
Specific results (sales growth, improved rankings, conversion rate increases).
Examples of creative problem-solving.

3. Check Their Technical Skills and Toolset

A professional ecommerce consultant should be comfortable with:

Store setup and platform customization.
Payment gateway integration.
Speed optimization and mobile responsiveness.
SEO and keyword strategy.
Analytics tools (Google Analytics, Shopify analytics, heatmaps).
Email marketing and automation tools.

Pro tip: Ask them which tools they use to track performance. At our agency, we integrate SEO tools like Ahrefs and Semrush, along with conversion tracking, so clients see exactly where their revenue is coming from.

4. Prioritize Communication and Transparency

Even the most skilled professional won’t help if they don’t communicate well. Look for someone who:

Explains strategies in simple terms.
Shares regular progress updates.
Is upfront about timelines and limitations.

We’ve onboarded many clients who came from previous agencies feeling “in the dark.” Our approach? Weekly updates, monthly strategy calls, and a transparent task tracker so clients know what’s happening at every stage.

5. Check Their SEO and Marketing Expertise

A great design is useless if no one sees your store. Your ecommerce expert should know how to:

Conduct thorough keyword research.
Optimize product pages for search engines and users.
Create blog content that attracts and converts.
Implement social media and paid ad campaigns.

When we redesigned a client’s home decor store, we combined Shopify SEO with a targeted content strategy. Within three months, their organic traffic doubled — and more importantly, sales increased by 62%.

6. Ask About Post-Launch Support

Launching a store is just the beginning. You’ll need ongoing updates, performance checks, and marketing tweaks.

A reliable partner won’t just disappear after launch. At 99 Ecommerce Experts, we include post-launch support packages, covering:

Performance monitoring.
Seasonal campaign adjustments.
Adding new features as your business grows.

7. Evaluate Their Portfolio and Client Reviews

A strong portfolio speaks volumes. Look for diversity — have they built both minimalist fashion stores and complex multi-category shops?

Also, pay attention to client feedback. If multiple clients mention great communication, fast problem-solving, or measurable results, you’re on the right track.

8. Understand Pricing — and Value

Cheapest rarely means best. Instead of focusing only on cost, look at value for money. A skilled ecommerce expert might charge more but can generate far higher returns.

We’ve had clients who first hired a “budget” freelancer, only to spend double fixing mistakes. With the right expert from the start, you avoid that risk and grow faster.

9. Watch Out for Red Flags

Avoid anyone who:

Guarantees instant results without data to back it up.
Can’t provide references or real examples.
Doesn’t ask questions about your business goals.

10. Work With a Team That Feels Like a Partner

Ultimately, you’re not just hiring a service provider — you’re choosing a partner in your business journey. The right ecommerce expert will be as invested in your success as you are.

At 99 Ecommerce Experts, we believe every store has unique potential. Our role is to unlock it with the right mix of design, marketing, and strategy — so you can focus on running your business while we focus on making it grow.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right ecommerce expert isn’t a decision to rush. Evaluate their expertise, communication style, portfolio, and results. Whether you’re just starting or looking to scale, the right partner can transform your online store into a profitable, sustainable business.

If you’re ready to take your store to the next level, reach out to us at 99 Ecommerce Experts — and let’s make it happen.