Over the last decade, many new technology platforms have transformed everyday Janes and Joes into entrepreneurs and sidepreneurs, and perhaps none moreso than eBay. In the current economic climate, supplemental and secondary incomes are becoming even more necessary, and eBay has become a new source. A recent national "Youth Entrepreneurship in America" survey conducted by the YEC, Buzz Marketing Group and LegalZoom found that nearly 15% of young respondents polled reported that they were eBay sellers.
However, like any business, having a product, no matter how unique, doesn't guarantee success. An open platform that allows individuals of any skill level to participate will always fuel inherent competition from those who are skilled and unskilled alike. This is especially true for a website like eBay, where there can be anywhere from one to thousands of people on the platform selling the exact same thing as you. In order to earn real revenue from eBay, you need to stop thinking like you are selling on one site and instead think like a global online marketer.
I asked a panel of young entrepreneurs how users can build up and market their eBay businesses to become successful online retailers.
1. Don't Just Sell - Educate
Personally reach out to each one of your [customers] and ask for a review. Another thing you should do is help [to make] the buying decision easier with good pics, well-written descriptions and detailed shipping and payment options.
Devesh Dwivedi, BreakingThe9to5Jail.com
3. Service Can Always Add to Your Unique Value Proposition
Make yourself accessible and your company personal. Add a unique "voice" to your copy to create more rapport and get back to people quickly.
4. Tell Great Stories to Differentiate
Stories resonate. Appeal to the feelings people will get from the experience, not the part itself.
Ryan Stephens, Ryan Stephens Marketing
5. Branch Out All Over
Make sure when you're posting to put in your utmost effort. If your listing looks genuine, has high-quality pictures and all the information, buyers will pay more.
6. Show Your Expertise With Video
It also gives you a chance to share your knowledge and build trust at the same time.
7. Stand Out from the Crowd
Be the "expert," not just another store front.
Jerry Piscitelli, Portopong LLC
8. More Info Creates Trust
Provide transparent reviews, more pictures, 360-degree tours, technical information and all the info they'd ever want to know before making a purchase. Being this type of resource will make your retailer a trusted source online.
9. Instead of Customers Coming to You, Go to Them
