AuctionCut

Totally agreed. This is one of the reasons I started on eBay, in a particular section. I won a digital product in an auction, and the service I got from the seller was totally crap. Quick enough to take the money, but when support was needed he was no where to be found. Sometimes he did not answer emails - at other times he had no knowledge of the product he was selling.

I simply thought to myself, I can do better than this bloke - so I did. I don't think he trades on eBay any more, but at one time this seller was dominating the market.

FreelanceWriter wrote:If you are just starting up your ebay business, I'd like to give you one tip from the point of a seller and a buyer. Communication for your ebay business is CRUCIAL. You need to make sure that you give yourself time not only to handle the auctions, but also to handle all your customers needs as well. I can't tell you how many times I've looked at products on ebay, and asked the seller a question about the product with no response. Generally, these were items I was really interested in and had the intention of buying. By not responding to my question they are showing me that my businesses is not important to them, so I go elsewhere. If you keep that in mind, you will gain loyal customers and take some business away from the bigger (less personable) guys.

Wise words, I always hold open communication with my buyers. I find people who do not reply to messages etc' are just ignorant. It doesn't take much to reply to a message and most of the time only requires 20 - 30 words. It doesn't have to be like writing an essay, just keep it simple. For people who find it difficult to spell and find sending a message intimidating or humiliating just use microsoft word's spell checker or ask a close family member of friend for help.

Most decent sellers are all too willing to answer questions in my experience. I would also say don't leave it too late to ask the question. Many sellers will be around near the end of their auction but leaving it until the last few minutes to ask specs about say a cars features is leaving it too late

Hi

I always answer questions, I also find that people really like it when you are quick to post the item they have won.
I hate sellers that wait about 7 days to post, just because they want to make only one trip to the post box.

I hate sellers that wait about 7 days to post, just because they want to make only one trip to the post box.

I share that hate. If I sell an item, I'll try to get it shipped within 24 hours. I once had to wait three weeks for an item - it was so frustrating and unnecessary.

expitlad wrote:Hi

I always answer questions, I also find that people really like it when you are quick to post the item they have won.
I hate sellers that wait about 7 days to post, just because they want to make only one trip to the post box.

Definatly, I always ship the day or day after payment is recieved. Even if I have to go to the post office a couple of times a week.

Excellent information, guys!! I've spent nearly an hour on this site, and already, I've bookmarked it! I'm not usually one to bookmark a site, other than planetSourceCode, GameFAQs, and a few others, which is speaking lots for AuctionCUT forums! In this hour, I've learned more about being able to CYA as a seller, while earning the respect from running a legit operation of being an eBay merchant. I still feel there is much to be learned before placing my first item up for sale, but with every post I digest, I'm getting closer. Thanks, you all! These topics are much appreciated!!

Yes, I agree customer service is a big part of a successful business. You get 1 happy customer, you're going to retain that customer. Also, they're going to tell other people about their wonderful experience with you.

I believe that if you start slow and steady and keep your customers satisfied, your customer base will eventually grow by a lot. Be patient though.

I think another great point besides

shipping on time
communication
proper spelling
customer service

Would be Professionalism. I found that by living up to a strict standard of professionalism I was able to build up a strong loyal amount of customers. One of the great side effects of being a seller with a professional attitude is that people will recognize it and send you email back praising you for your way of doing business.

Plus as an added bonus you can add any great feedback you get from customers as testimonials on your 'About Me' page