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Jessica Ek

Guide to Expanding Your eBay Business

How to build your eBay small business, making it more efficient and profitable

By Jessica Ek, Copywriter, Connors Communications

It’s time to take your hobby to the next level. Many eBay stores that have started out as modest side businesses have grown to become full-time jobs. And no matter what size the operation, an eBay store that is run like a business will be most successful when treated as such:

1. Increase sales and maximize profits
2. Develop an eBay store like any other small business
3. Manage logistics more efficiently


Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done


Become your own copywriter

Everything you write for an auction listing is important and can affect the final sale price. Keep in mind what has gotten you to buy on eBay in the past. Chances are a search-friendly title, clear description, and abundance of useful information will get others to bid as well. Triple check the spelling in your title because that is what most people search on. Add sizes to the titles of clothes auctions and brands to the titles of electronics auctions. Honing your writing skills can go a long way toward better selling prices.
I recommend: A List Apart  is always a great place for new copywriters to learn better techniques.

Create good customer service

Putting a professional foot forward helps establish a customer base that will help spread the word about your store and product(s). As in all businesses, things will go wrong. Packages can go astray, payments may not be smooth, and transactions may not go as planned. If there is such a problem or if a customer has questions, responding quickly, respectfully, and informatively makes all the difference. After all, a higher rating will lead to more sales in the future and happy customers give positive feedback. Since "My eBay" allows users to select favorite sellers, you will also gain repeat buyers with good service.
I recommend: For advice on establishing a meaningful exchange with customers, Inc. has a good article and Customers Are Always  has advice specifically designed for eBayers.

Ship from home

Time is wasted at the post office, so to streamline your efforts it’s key to cut out this inefficient step. Get a scale so that you can purchase and print shipping labels from home. To save even more time and money, visit an online shipping site like RedRoller.com where you can compare the services of different shipping carriers for the specific package you’re sending, see all delivery times and prices in real time, and choose the option that best fits your budget and deadline.
I recommend: RedRoller.com has one-stop shipping, integrates seamlessly with eBay accounts, and is a very useful resource.

Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

  • Before starting an auction, always research to see how similar items are doing. If a similar product isn’t selling well, consider posting your auction at a later date. Also keep in mind what time the auction will end. Most auction prices go up in the final hour and you don't want that to be at 4:00 a.m. Sunday when the majority of potential bidders are sleeping.
  • The more methods of payment you accept, the more likely you are to attract a significant number of bidders. However, if you prefer a short turnaround, stick to online payments so you don't have to wait for checks to clear.
  • Have a back-up plan. If your computer crashes, can you still complete sales? Consider the alternatives so that you are prepared in advance of unforeseen complications.
  • All business owners need to keep good records, so be sure to start a system that works for you. You should also keep files should you need to report any revenue while doing your taxes.
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Recommended Solution Providers

Currency exchange calculator
Expand your business to different countries.

Label printers
Dynamo is a good choice for a label printer. Or if you prefer, may places will let you print out labels on regular paper with your usual printer.

Airbag filler
Fillers can be a great way to make sure that your packages arrive safely. They can never be too secure.

Best Sites to Learn More

Marsha Collier’s eBay Tips
This website, and her book, are very helpful for the serious eBay seller.

Internet Selling Advice
This is an article that can help seller hone their skills and perfect their auctions.

eBay’s Seller Checklist
Go right to source. eBay has been doing this for a while now and knows what sellers need. They have some good pointers.

Best Blogs and Forums

eBay Seller Central
Get advice from other eBay sellers and use it to become a power seller.

AuctionBytes
Get all the latest information on eBay so that you can be ready for any changes to the site.



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