As a new eBay store seller, I have been looking for ways to generate business for my eBay store. Of course, there are the usual ways of generating more business such as using the keywords program or upgrading my store...or even linking to a new ProStore.  However, I have been trying to think of ways to get word out to the public, especially those who have never used eBay before.  So after having some limited success with my eBay store, I decided to turn to the outside market to bring some people in.  (For those of you who aren't aware of this, some of the eBay fees are discounted when buyers link directly to your store from outside eBay.)  My goal was to find ways to get my eBay store address out to the general public in order to sell some goods both inside and outside of eBay.

Since I had a little confidence from the positive feedback I was getting on eBay, I decided to look for stores that might be interested in selling my items on consignment.  Since I make hand-dyed batik/tie-dye clothing for babies, toddlers, and kids, I decided to find a children's store.  I started with the one I usually shop at, and I got lucky the first time!  The store liked the items and agreed to sell them on consignment.  What they didn't know is that I was also creating some business for myself without having to pay consignment fees all the time.

The store agreed to create a display for my products with my help, and the picture that follows shows the display for my Fit 2 B Dyed items.

The tags on each item consist of three things:  a tag with a size and item description, a t-shirt shaped tag complete with washing instructions, and a business card.  The business card is key, because it includes the direct link to my eBay store on it.  In addition, the store distributes my business cards at the checkout counter and near my products.  Both have resulted in new eBay customers for me.

The nice thing about the business cards is that I have also received special orders this way.  Customers can request an item, and I set up a special eBay auction just for them.

After having some success with the store consignment, I found a second store and now sell things at both locations.  This has resulted in both sales at the stores, and also sales on eBay.

The next approach I decided to take was the Arts and Crafts Fair.  I found a few fairs in my area that drew large crowds and also charged a relatively nominal fee (some fairs can cost upwards of $175 to participate).  The first fair I sold items at was very successful, and I have signed up for others as a result.  The picture that follows show the booth I designed for my craft fair.

The great thing about eBay is that I was able to use it to purchase many of the things I needed for "setting up shop".  I bought a tagging gun, clothing sizers, and a few display items in order to complete my booth.

After having success with both of those methods, I decided that I would let my eBay store do more of the work for me!  So, I purchased some rubber ducks with a hippie theme, and distributed them (along with my business card) to my workplace, neighborhood, and family and friends.  The result has been almost more business than I can handle!

Finally, I find out when a new baby is born in my neighborhood, and I distribute a free product (with extra business cards) in one of my gift packages.  Although this costs a little bit more than some sellers may wish to spend, I can tell you that the payoff is great.  People love the freebies, and they have been more than willing to recommend my business to family and friends who are in need of a baby gift.

As you can see, there can be many different aspects to opening an eBay business.  I have taken my eBay store and brought its goods to the outside, which in turn has led me to greater success.

Good luck to you in your own business endeavors!