As we have discussed earlier, retailers have several reasons to have an eBay store. Opening your own eBay store can either bring you financial satisfaction or leaving you feeling frustrated and worse off than when you started. The difference between these two situations is seldom up to luck or chance, but rather depends on the strategy you use to run your eBay store. Following, we would like to present you with a list we have compiled of the top mistakes made by rookie eBay sellers. If you want to ensure the success of your eBay shop, this is the list for you. Let’s take a look at the countdown.
No. 5: Not pricing your products appropriately
Public Domain Image: Public Domain
There are a ton of sellers on eBay and many of them may be selling similar products to yours. This is why you need to ensure that you keep prices at a fair level and that you take into account the current market demand and offer for your particular products. Nobody is saying that you should be offering dirt cheap prices, but at least ensure they aren’t higher than your competition’s.
No. 4: Not focusing on customer service
Public Domain Image: Public Domain
If you’re a seller on eBay, you have to understand one thing: your customers are your lifeline and you have to ensure that you cater to their needs. Anytime you get a query on your auctions, take the time to answer your potential clients. If they’re asking you something, it is clear that they are interested in what you have to offer, but they might need some guidance. Try to answer as fast as you can and always maintain a professional tone.
No. 3: Using low quality pictures
Public Domain Image: Public Domain
In retailing, image is everything. This is why it is of the utmost importance to use high quality photos that showcase your products. You can also get creative with your photos: place your products on interesting backgrounds, add some words to your photos, or whatever comes to mind.
No. 2: Inflated shipping fees
Public Domain Image: Public Domain
When browsing for similar products on eBay one of the first things customers will pay attention to are shipping fees. This is why it is vital not to post outrages shipping fees that will turn potential buyers off. Maybe you cannot afford to offer free shipping, especially if you’re just starting out, but you can still keep them at a decent level. In time, after you will attract more and more customers, you could consider shipping items for free in certain locations, so as to be able to compete with other major sellers on eBay.
No. 1: Not maintaining a positive feedback rating
The single most important thing any eBay seller should ensure is a high feedback rating. eBay buyers pay close attention to the rating sellers have to determine who is more trustworthy and professional. In addition, sellers with a rating of at least 4.8 stars also get neat perks from eBay, such as higher refunds. So what can you do to keep your rating up? First of all, you have to be very meticulous and professional with each of your sales. If anything goes wrong, ensure that you correct any mishaps so as to fully satisfy your client. After the sale has been completed, you can also contact your buyer and ask them politely for a feedback and a review.