Want to make that sale? Think like a buyer. If you do, you'll be less likely to be one of those sellers who leaves out vital information when listing an item for auction or sale.
This means:
1. Know the keywords and search terms your buyer will use to find your item.
2. Make sure you write a clear description but don't overwrite. This isn't a novel. Avoid too many adjectives; use them sparingly. If you write a good description with clear photos, your item will often sell itself. Be specific about what you are selling, including the full title, model name, etc.
3. Clear photos which honestly show any and all flaws are as important as an accurate description. If you decide to crop your photos to hide flaws, you may never sell to that bidder again. Don't hide imperfections. Don't use photo programs to change the way your item looks in real life. That may result in ONE sale but at the cost of losing buyer trust and repeat business. It isn't worth it in the long run.
Here's one example of a photo of a desirable book, SHOWING flaws (rubbed cover, some tears), that still sold for a good price and, equally as important, the buyer was thrilled (but imagine if the photo had been, the bidder could have been in for quite a shock!):
:
4. Be sure to include condition, age (if known), model, brand name, vital info. Don't call an item MINT if it is not new. Don't leave out info. If I see a listing with only a title, no photos and a price, I am likely to avoid that item. Reduce bidder frustration.
5. Be honest. Be accurate.
6. Use close-ups when you take photos, especially of imperfections. You don't have to be a pro but get decent, clear shots and make sure you include them.
6. Make your shipping terms and prices easy to find.
7. Think creatively to make your object stand out.
Example:
This photo got more views or bidder "hits" than showing the neckwear without a live model:

8. Group similar items in the same week's auction listings and crosslink to them. Example: If you have a lot of books on the civil war,list them in the same time frame. If you are selling your children's old school uniforms, same thing. List them in bunches, same week. More chances for cross-sales this way.
9. DO NOT assume the right buyer will just "find" your item and know it for the value it is. Make sure you assume they know nothing about the item and go from there. Sure, you'll get the pros who DO know a good buy but don't eliminate the beginner who might also bid as well.
There you have it. This is just a start but if you follow the basics above, you'll be closer to closing that sale.
This means:
1. Know the keywords and search terms your buyer will use to find your item.
2. Make sure you write a clear description but don't overwrite. This isn't a novel. Avoid too many adjectives; use them sparingly. If you write a good description with clear photos, your item will often sell itself. Be specific about what you are selling, including the full title, model name, etc.
3. Clear photos which honestly show any and all flaws are as important as an accurate description. If you decide to crop your photos to hide flaws, you may never sell to that bidder again. Don't hide imperfections. Don't use photo programs to change the way your item looks in real life. That may result in ONE sale but at the cost of losing buyer trust and repeat business. It isn't worth it in the long run.
Here's one example of a photo of a desirable book, SHOWING flaws (rubbed cover, some tears), that still sold for a good price and, equally as important, the buyer was thrilled (but imagine if the photo had been, the bidder could have been in for quite a shock!):
4. Be sure to include condition, age (if known), model, brand name, vital info. Don't call an item MINT if it is not new. Don't leave out info. If I see a listing with only a title, no photos and a price, I am likely to avoid that item. Reduce bidder frustration.
5. Be honest. Be accurate.
6. Use close-ups when you take photos, especially of imperfections. You don't have to be a pro but get decent, clear shots and make sure you include them.
6. Make your shipping terms and prices easy to find.
7. Think creatively to make your object stand out.
Example:
This photo got more views or bidder "hits" than showing the neckwear without a live model:
8. Group similar items in the same week's auction listings and crosslink to them. Example: If you have a lot of books on the civil war,list them in the same time frame. If you are selling your children's old school uniforms, same thing. List them in bunches, same week. More chances for cross-sales this way.
9. DO NOT assume the right buyer will just "find" your item and know it for the value it is. Make sure you assume they know nothing about the item and go from there. Sure, you'll get the pros who DO know a good buy but don't eliminate the beginner who might also bid as well.
There you have it. This is just a start but if you follow the basics above, you'll be closer to closing that sale.
Guide created: 09/05/06 (updated 05/28/08)


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