Want to get your kicks and make some cash, too? Anyone can learn how to sell shoes online these days, even if you have no previous experience running your own business. Better technology and easier ways to integrate with partners have greatly simplified the process of starting an online store. A very small budget could quickly turn your store into the next Zappo’s.

Of course, it helps to have a little knowledge handy to help get your shoe store started on the right foot. Scoping out how the competition has done it will only get you so far. Research is an important part of kick-starting your business, and you’ll need to do a whole lot of it before you can consider yourself a master of how to sell shoes online. Lucky for you, we’ve put together a handful of tips to guide your research.

1. Find a specialty.

Building a mega-mall for all different kinds of shoes right off the bat is a daunting task. As a result, you’ll want to start small and scale up from there. A good way to break into the world of online business may be to specialize in soccer shoes or high heels, for instance. Once you’ve found your niche, you’re ready to move on to the next step in learning how to sell shoes online.

2. Kick it all off with the right eCommerce software suite.

To sell online, you need to follow certain laws and run an incredibly efficient business. To do this, you’ll require a truly powerful ecommerce software suite.

It’s nice to have features like “daily deals,” for example, that you can run on your own without having to pay out to a large company like Groupon. You’ll also want a platform that gives you the ability to build profiles on customers so you can match their taste well when you market to them over email. A strong software platform is absolutely essential as you learn how to sell shoes online.

3. Bring in a designer to help you create a unique brand.

Your store needs a strong brand that resonates with shoppers. It also needs to have a smooth, engaging design - and if you don’t have a background in design, you’ll want to hire a professional.

Put up money for a strong look, and your shoppers will thank you with more business. Make sure the software you choose gives designers access to the necessary CSS tools.

4. Get listed on comparison shopping sites.

Comparison shopping sites represent some of the strongest marketing channels for online stores of all shapes and sizes. When a savvy shopper goes out looking for a new pair of Adidas shoes, for instance, they’ll search a comparison shopping site for the lowest price, which could help you drum up some business. It’s a strong way to get the word out as you learn how to sell shoes online.