Want to jump on the digital commerce bandwagon and make some extra cash? Check out these online services every equestrian business should offer that will help you expand your client base and offerings. These services are super easy to start offering and have a high reward for low effort. So, let’s dive in and see how you can grow your business revenue with these services
Table of Contents
Online Consultations and Virtual Visits
Want to expand your equestrian biz and make some extra cash? Try offering online consultations and virtual visits. It’s a low-effort, high-reward move. All you need is a device with video conferencing software (like Zoom or Google Meet) and you’re good to go.
I’ve seen all kinds of consultations in the equestrian world, from riding lessons to animal health evaluations. You’re bound to find something that works for you. Plus, online consultations are a great way to reach clients you can’t see in person (how else would you give feedback to a rider in Texas from your home in Nevada?). It’s also cheaper for both you and your client – which is a win win!
Equestrian Online Courses
If you’re an expert in your equine field and are ready to share your knowledge with the world, an online course can be a unique way to generate additional revenue. These courses consist of videos, written material, and quizzes/ knowledge checks that help your clients learn a simple skill or technique.
The downside is online courses often take a significant amount of time to put together- you need to record all your videos and type out all your lessons. However, once you’ve put everything together and launched, there is little to do except maintain your site and recruit new students. If you don’t want to spend the time creating your online course, you can hire a professional to give you a hand.
Equestrian Membership Website
Similar to online courses, a member’s area provides your subscribers access to specially created content for a fee. A member’s area is a great place to start if you don’t have the time to create a full online course, but still want to experiment with sharing premium content.
Select your content carefully and create it with care- it is very important that your clients feel they are getting something special for their subscription fee. Successful member areas often have content that covers a variety of content in detail in a variety of forms (video, written article, diagrams) and is updated frequently. You can also consider offering “member’s only” discounts on your other services for subscribers.
Another perk of a member’s area to consider is dedicated access to you, or another expert at your business. Clients love the convenience of being able to submit a question and get a quick reply for common questions of problems. If priority messaging is something you’d like to include in your member’s area (and I’d encourage you to look into it!) be sure to set clear expectations for interactions with your clients.
Define the time period for your response (“I’ll get back to you within twenty-four hours”) and make sure clients are aware that, for more complicated questions, you may recommend a video consultation. Also communicate times you won’t be available, such as weekends, holidays, or vacations, to avoid misunderstandings.
Things to Consider Before Offering Equine Digital Services
When done correctly, the addition of equine digital services into your business model can be hugely beneficial. There are, however, some things to lookout for.
- Protect yourself with a user agreement/ contract: This is especially important when implementing payment and refund policies for your services. A lawyer versed in online agreements is a great resource and well worth the consultation fee for reviewing your digital contracts.
- Protect your content: You’ve worked hard to create content for your course or member’s area- make sure to protect it. Keep an eye out for my upcoming post with recommendations on securing your images and content.
- Make it easy to access: I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again- a simple, easy to use website is always important, but it’s vital for businesses offering digital content. I would love to help you create the perfect platform that effortlessly merges your physical and digital businesses. Let’s chat! Reach out for a free thirty-minute consolation.
Get Started with Digital Services Today
Increase the income of your equestrian business with the help of equine digital services. Set them up once and reap the benefits! Make sure you take care when creating your digital services, and create clear guidelines around how they’ll be used by clients and customers.
Need help setting up your equine digital services website? Get in touch with us. We’d love to go over different ways you can expand your equine business virtually.
