How to Write an Online Listing to Really Sell Your Items
Whether you’re moving out soon, tidying up your closet at the end of the season, or just getting rid of stuff that’s taking up space and not being used, selling online is an easy way to make some money off your junk. desired goods. But to get buyers’ attention on your products and quickly convince them to buy what you’re selling, you need a compelling online listing.
Here’s how to create an ad to sell your items online faster .
Write specific descriptive titles
The first thing buyers will see in your ad is the headline, and it determines whether your product will catch their eye when they browse the search results (or even be able to find it using the search). Write a descriptive title with keywords that potential buyers might be looking for, including details such as brand, model, material, color, size, and condition. Avoid abbreviations, symbols, and capitalization unless they refer to your product name.
For example: “Grey Shorts” is unlikely to gain views, but “Nike Tempo Short-Lined Women’s Medium Gray New with Tags Running Shorts” is likely to gain popularity and sell faster.
Be Honest – Give Accurate Details
When writing a description of an item, be as detailed as possible, including all the information recommended for headings, as well as the model number, dimensions and specifications, unique qualities, amount of use (e.g., new or gently used), and any flaws. Don’t try to hide the condition of your item from potential buyers. It’s better to be honest than to deal with an angry customer after you’ve closed the ad.
In addition to your product description, include a line about the benefits of owning this product for the buyer. This will add personality to your ad.
Use keywords or search tags
Be sure to include keywords in your list that people are most likely to search for. Choose 3-6 simple and specific terms that best describe your product and include them in your post. For example, on eBay listings, you can select item features and product IDs to increase your item’s visibility.
Upload some high quality photos
Potential buyers want to know what they are buying and high quality photos will draw people to your ad. Here are some best practices:
- Photograph your subject from multiple angles in natural light and with minimal background distractions.
- If you are photographing garments, be sure to iron out the creases and lay them flat or hang them on a hanger (or, at best, use a clothing mold if you have one).
- Show the inside and outside of your item, as well as close-ups of finishes, fittings, and textures.
- Attach photos of labels, labels and model numbers, and original packaging if you have one.
- Take pictures of wear, imperfections and defects.
When using a smartphone to take photos, make sure the lens is clean, the resolution is set to maximum, and the flash is turned off. You want photos to accurately reflect the color and condition of your item, but a little tweaking with your phone’s built-in editing tools can go a long way.
When creating an ad, choose the most representative photo as the first in the set, as it is the most likely to show up in search results.
Value your product right
How you price your item plays a big role in how much interest you get and how quickly you can sell. Sure, you want to make money, but bidding too high will likely result in your listing sitting idle for a while. View current and recently sold listings of similar products in your area (if sold locally) or across platforms to determine your current rate. You might want to watch the market for a few days to see how quickly items are selling at different price points.
If you’re in a rush to sell, a small price drop in the market may attract more interest. On the other hand, if your item is newer or higher quality, you can also attract interested buyers if you explain the price in the description.
It can be helpful to list the savings percentage compared to buying a new item, so shoppers know what kind of deal they’re getting. And pay attention to whether you are open to negotiation or the price is fixed.
Choose the right category
Most selling platforms have a category feature so listings can be easily filtered. Be sure to select the most appropriate category for your item and select secondary categories if allowed so that buyers don’t miss your item when searching.
Offer free shipping or delivery
If you’re selling through the Facebook Marketplace or another local listing service, consider offering free shipping to shoppers in your area, especially for large items like furniture, as well as shipping options for those who don’t. Free shipping can also incentivize shoppers on any platform.
Reply to messages quickly
Respond to potential buyers’ inquiries quickly and with specific details to indicate that your listing is legitimate and you are interested in selling. Otherwise, buyers can move on to other options. Turn on notifications when available so you can respond quickly.