There is a certain amount of trust required to take out your credit card and give money to someone you don't know.
And while security is MUCH better than in previous years, it would still behoove us to present as professional image as possible when dealing with our customers.
Speaking personally I expect to immediately receive a confirmation email stating the details of the sale.
When this arrives, at least I know that the transaction was accepted and things are proceeding normally.
It's a given that people are looking for bargains on eBay; also that they expect the goods to be EXACTLY as represented.
Thus, this article isn't about that, since I'll assume you're a "stand up" ebayer, ready to do the right thing.
That begs the question, how can you do the right thing in your auction, and still get noticed? CUSTOMER SERVICE As I write this there are thousands, hundreds of thousands of auctions on eBay, some run professionally, others not so much.
We want our auctions to stand out and we're going to accomplish by treating our customer, exactly like we'd like to be treated.
First, no matter where you live in the country and/or the world, if you're reading this, you're connected to the net.
Thus, you can send and receive emails and so too can your customer; knowing this, we'll want to send them an email that is professional, detailed oriented, and also understands their emotions.
Tell them when they can expect to receive their merchandise.
Of course this may vary depending on several factors; time of year, size of merchandise, who is the shipper, but these are things that YOU are aware of and can artfully weave them into your email.
Remind them of the auction number and what exactly they purchased.
Yours may not be the only auction they won, so remind them of the purchase, your auction ID and the price of the auction.
While this should have been made clear in the auction itself, let them know how payment is expected.
Are you using Paypal (standard on eBay) then let them know this is your preferred payment processor.
Are you expecting a check or money order?If a check, then be certain they understand that their merchandise will be shipped AFTER the check clears.
Remind THEM...
to remind YOU.
Instruct the winner to clearly write on their check or money order (or a piece of paper enclosed) their exact name and shipping address.
Nothing is worse than having payment in hand, but not knowing where to send the merchandise.
I strongly recommend Paypal since they integrate perfectly with eBay, but if you are using a different payment processor, offer clear and concise instructions on EXACTLY what the buyer must do to pay for their item.
Feedback is (one of the) engines that drive eBay.
Let your customer know that you plan to leave positive feedback and you'd appreciate their doing the same.
Provide GOOD contact info.
Some recommend leaving a customer service phone number, but for myself, I do NOT like 3am phone calls asking where my package is.
However, if you have a dedicated customer service number, than be sure and let them know about it.
If you'll implement this advice, care about your customer(s), you'll be rewarded with more sales, greater feedback and a growing bank account.