Can you help me with how to start a business, this is my first time on shopify
Topic summary
A first-time Shopify user seeks guidance on launching their business. Community members provide foundational advice and resources.
Key recommendations include:
- Getting started: Create a Shopify store account and follow Shopify’s official guide on starting an online store
- Product selection: Research demand, profit margins, and reliable sourcing before committing
- Store setup: Prioritize clean design, clear navigation, engaging visuals, and transparent policies (shipping, returns, pricing)
- Early optimization: Implement SEO best practices for product titles, descriptions, and images to drive organic traffic
- Marketing strategy: Plan beyond traditional ads—consider affiliate marketing programs where customers or influencers promote products
- Customer focus: Identify target audience and distribution channels early in the planning process
The discussion remains open-ended, with respondents awaiting clarification on whether the user has already selected a product or is starting completely from scratch.
Hi @Zoro90
First, please create a Shopify store
Then, check this instruction to learn the steps to take to start.
Hello @Zoro90 first things first welcome to Shopify, the best e-commerce platform you can choose to set up your store in. There’s no need to rush the process and I think you should start with the basics yourself first before you even start getting help from maybe designers, marketers, etc. Here’s a pretty straightforward blog on the official Shopify website that will help you take off https://www.shopify.com/blog/start-online-store
Hi,
That’s exciting - welcome to Shopify! Before diving into advice, can I ask if you already have a product and a store set up, or are you starting completely fresh? Knowing that helps decide the best next steps.
In general, here are some things to keep in mind when getting started:
- Find the right product: Research what’s in demand, has a healthy margin, and can be sourced reliably.
- Set up your store properly: Focus on a clean, trustworthy design with clear navigation and engaging visuals.
- Establish clear policies: Competitive pricing, transparent shipping, and simple return policies build customer trust.
- Work on SEO early: Optimize product titles, descriptions, and images to attract organic traffic.
- Plan your marketing: Beyond ads and email, you might also explore affiliate marketing. Many stores use apps like UpPromote to let loyal customers or influencers share their products - a great way to boost sales while keeping things efficient.
Wishing you the best of luck with your new venture — every step you take now sets the foundation for future success! 
Apart from thinking how to build up your Shopify store, the first thing you need to consider is your target customer and where you can let them know what you sell. This is more important under current situation.