**UPDATE: Good news! Google has extended the #GOSF by a day, so, now it’s on until 14th December. Plus, you can win a Nexus 7 tab every hour!**
The Great Online Shopping Festival 2013
Happening right now and continuing uptil the 14th of December, the Great Online Shopping Festival promises some great deals from dozens of participating sites.
Follow Google India on G+ and Twitter @GoogleIndia to win a Nexus 7 tab every hour. All you have to do is complete the sentence “I deserve a deal because….” on Google+ and use the hashtags #GOSF and #GOSFDeal. More details here.
And since we’re all about shopping, we’ve put together a list that will help you make the most of GOSF ’13!
1) Pick Brands You Are Familiar with
Shop for familiar brands
Whether it’s an exclusive online store or one that stocks multiple brands, it’s best to shop for brands and labels that you are most familiar with. That way, you can be sure of the quality of the product and stay loyal to the brands you love. To make things simpler, chose a shopping site that carries popular brands and labels, which makes it easy for you to pick and choose.
2) UNDERSTAND SIZING
Always study size charts!
The right fit is the key to a great wardrobe find and as far as shopping online goes, be sure to know how to find your sizing. Look for the size chart that lists actual sizes in cms or inches and its parallels in UK, US and other sizing.
3) PRODUCTS ON MODELS V/S PRODUCTs by themselves
Online display of products
Some sites display their products on models and some just show you the product shots. Then there are those that give you both. To make sure you know exactly how the product looks and to be aware of the finer lines, choose a website that offers you the most detailed view of the product.
4) CHECK RETURN POLICIES
Look for the finer print on return policies.
If you have bought a product and aren’t completely satisfied with it, almost every website claims that they will return your cash or exchange the product. For whatever reason, make sure that you are aware of their return or cash back policies and read the fine lines.
5) CONTACT OPTIONS for THE WEBSITE
Immediate communication with the websites
Look out for a chat window or a prominent phone number listed on the website. This will help you get in touch with the website for a quick and personal response to your queries.
6) Offers And Discounts
Exciting offers and discounts
Websites often offer great discounts and coupons throughout the year. So to make the most of your shopping spree, make sure you check out the special deals and available offers. And look out for really, really awesome deals floating around during the GOSF ’13.
CouponDunia is a great coupon site, which is currently listing all the great GOSF deals and offers!
7) Payment Methods:
Multiple payment and delivery options
A lot of websites offer customers attractive payment options and cash back offers. Be sure to study them carefully or call the listed number on the site if you have any questions. If you’re not comfortable transacting online, you can always pay cash on delivery. If you are ready to use the convenience of paying online, make sure the vendor has the proper security certificates in place and uses a reputable transaction partner. Most big sites do.
8) Gifting Options:
Gifting Options
Wish to shop for a gift for a friend? Make sure you find out if the website will deliver to the chosen location. There are a few websites that will even gift wrap, which could make for a perfect present for a loved one (as opposed to sending a cheesy online digital birthday card)!
And check out MissMalini‘s Shopping guide with Flipkart for some basic shopping tips.
We hope these simple tips will help you have a great experience during the Great Online Shopping Festival 2013. After all, it is almost Christmas and the joy is in giving as well as receiving a tone of presents! Happy shopping!
Posted on MissMalini.