Amazon is a powerhouse of online shopping, connecting millions of buyers and sellers worldwide on a daily basis. To stand out as a seller, you’ll have to understand Amazon’s algorithm and learn how to tailor your listing accordingly. While the algorithm might seem complicated, the process of navigating it is relatively simple.

What Is The Algorithm?

Amazon relies on a complicated algorithm to find and rank the most relevant product listings for each search query. That means when a buyer types “dish towels” into the search bar, Amazon presents them with the product listings that they deem the most relevant and likely to be purchased.

The Amazon A9 algorithm is always updating, but it generally focuses on three areas:

1. Relevance. Amazon looks at keywords to determine if your product is relevant to the search query (even the best-selling dish soap isn’t going to sell when the buyer is searching for dish towels).
2. Performance. Amazon combs through factors like customer reviews and click-through rates to determine the highest-performing products.
3. Conversion. The more you can translate clicks into sales, the higher you’ll appear in search results.

Tips For Navigating The Algorithm

1. Do keyword research

In order to increase your visibility on Amazon, you need to know which keywords are effectively drawing buyers to your product. With the dish towel example, you might find that the phrase “microfiber dish towels” is more specific and will attract buyers more likely to purchase from you than from competitors. Incorporate these keywords into your listing in headings and the product description, but refrain from keyword stuffing to avoid being penalized by Amazon.

2. Build your product reviews

Amazon’s algorithm considers customer reviews, so prioritize building a collection of positive reviews. Make customer service your number one priority by promptly replying to issues and responding to negative reviews quickly and professionally. You may also want to consider using an Amazon fulfillment center to handle product shipping and Amazon returns.

3. Price your product competitively

One factor that can tank your visibility is pricing your product too highly. You may need to lower your price during dry periods to jumpstart your sales and boost visibility again. Look at other products in your industry that are selling well and try to stay close to or under their cost. When your sales start to increase, you can start raising your price accordingly.

4. Keep your product in stock

Nothing will dock you faster than being out of product for long periods of time. Make sure your product is in stock and try to tailor your ordering to keep up with demand. This is another time when an Amazon FBA prep center can help, as they will provide scalable storage space for your products so you never have to worry about running out of space.

When it comes to navigating Amazon’s algorithm, knowledge is power. Do your keyword research, build customer reviews, and consider using an Amazon fulfillment center to boost your visibility and succeed on the platform.