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Official Griff Tip #4

Taking great photos! The basics are a snap:

1. Use a digital camera. You don't need an expensive model. The basic, inexpensive camera will work just fine.
2. Place your item on a table with a solid colored background behind it. The goal here to completely isolate your item visually. You don't anything that isn't the item to show in the photo.
3. Use as much light as you can, preferably diffused light (you can bounce household lamp light off a white wall or ceiling). Make sure the item is bathed in as much diffused light as possible. (there are cheap and effective "light box" kits on sale on eBay that work like a charm but for starting out, you can get near the same quality by the inventive use of available household materials.
4. Take as many photos of the item as necessary to display all sides of it (Back, front, sides, top, bottom, etc).
5. Follow the instructions for your camera on how to transfer the photos to your computer. Have them stored and ready to go in a location or folder that you can easily find later.

More to come...

Griff

Official Griff Tip #5

Writing a description and creating a Terms of Service. This is an area where so many otherwise well intentioned sellers fall flat. Don't let that be you! Remember, your eBay item description is where you actually "pitch" the sale to buyers. One line descriptions just won't work. When it comes to the item, describe it in exhaustive detail.

Start with a Word doc or a new Text Editor file. Begin by typing the item's title, size, color, make, condition, history, etc. Include every possible detail. This is absolutely crucial. Call out condition! If there are flaws, make a clear list of them (and include photos of the flaws close up).

After (never before) your description, include a concise and easy-to-read list of your Terms. This should include the types of payment you accept, the time frame for the buyer to provide payment, your shipping terms (what classes of service and carriers you provide as options) and most important, your return policy. The best return policy is one that states "100% satisfaction guaranteed or your money back" Don't hedge! If your return policy isn't reasonable and customer-centric, you will loose potential buyers.

More to come....

"...Have you seen anyone sell a service on eBay? How do the techniques differ from selling a tangible product? Thank you, Interpreter..."

Yes I have. In fact, there is a specific category just for listing services:

http://services.ebay.com/_W0QQ_trksidZp3907Q2em21

Coincidentally, I just recently purchased a service on eBay:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=110048308774

The actual listing of a service is no different that listing an item with one important consideration: The seller of a service needs to package the service in a way that is consistent with the listing process for physical items, specially when it comes to pricing. For example, the seller above offers a set service at a set price. This is one "unit" of service. That way, the buyer can purchase as many units as they need. I had two reel to reel tapes that needed to be transferred to CD so I bought 2 units from the seller @ $40 each.

For this particular service, I had to ship the tapes to them and wait for them to be transferred. It went pretty quickly and I am extremely happy with the results. If you peruse the Specialty Services category, you can pick up other ideas on how to list various types of services (or maybe even come up with one of your own!)

More to come...

Griff

I'm a private trainer and have access to a ton (no pun intended) of unused/unwanted gym equipment. How do I position it so that shipping costs aren't seen as such a burden and a turnoff?

Official Griff Tip #7

After Listing: Once you have listed the item, you need to be available for email from potential buyers. Make sure you answer any all questions (no matter how "stupid" they might appear) professionally and completely. Don't rule out any reasonable requests for services beyond what is stated your Terms of Service.

If the item sells, contact the winning buyer with an invoice (If you use PayPal ... and you should... you can set up automatic invoices for free:

https://www.paypal.com/us/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_auction-outside

Once payment has been recieved, ship the item out. Follow up with the buyer to let them know the item has shipped. Remember that sellers are rated on eBay by buyers and your status as a seller depends on maintaining good customer ratings. It is no crime to ask buyers for good ratings and the best place to do so is in the item package. Create (or buy on eBay!) professional glossy stock cards that contain a simple explanation of the eBay ratings and feedback system, how it works and why it is important for your business.

Oh, and leave the buyer a positive feedback once their payment has cleared!

I guess that's all the time we have today. There are so many more tips to running a successful business on eBay. If you ever run into an issue or a need for advice or assistance, feel free to email me at griff@ebay.com

Thank you for your participation and Happy eBaying!

regards,

Griff

interesting thread - good tips!