With the barrier to entry really low, finding success in selling used stuff online can be very challenging and not as straightforward as it seems. Even if the product is really good, when the timing is bad and the seller is hitting on the wrong audience, the product can never get on the right hands.
Second-hand goods do have a big market. On one survey conducted by Global Market Insite Inc. (GMI), 35% of women and 25% of men buy more used products than brand new ones. It also appears that at least seven in 10 shoppers have purchased second-hand goods online. Most popular buys include books, DVDs and CDs.
Ralph Risk, GMI European Marketing Director, says there will always be a market for second-hand goods as people are always looking for ways on how they can "maximize their return on income." He adds that sites like eBay and Amazon will keep on growing because of this demand.
With the competition really high, how can one achieve success in selling second-hand goods online? Here are a few tips to get anyone started:
1. Focus on just one platform
When starting, it is important to focus on just one site for selling. One does not have to create duplicates of similar listings on eBay, Amazon and Craigslist straightaway. Focusing on one portal makes it easier to get to know the audience and the site's features really well. This way, a seller gets to make the most of the site's features.
2. Build a good online presence before selling
Most online buyers are savvy internet users, and it is not far off for them to check on a seller's reputation before choosing to buy from a particular shop. Buyers may search for the seller's name online, so it is important for a seller to maintain a good online footprint. Building a blog, or registering with a professional site like LinkedIn may help with a seller's online presence.
3. Use the right keywords for listings
Some words captivate the audience more than others. For example, it is said that perfumes with the word 'authentic' tend to sell more compared to those labeled as 'genuine'. Shoes branded as 'sneakers' also sell more compared to 'trainers'. Buyers also put a great deal on grammar, with listings with incorrect spellings or grammar seen as less valuable. Sellers should make sure to double check on the coherence of listings, and shouldn't be afraid to have a professional copy write the listing if assistance is needed.
Online selling is putting oneself out there as an entrepreneur. Sellers should always act with professionalism, the right etiquette, and an excellent customer orientation.
