Selling your unused goods online is convenient, quick and fun. It means you’ll have some additional cash in hand that you can spend on yourself and your family.
To place an online ad, you have to consider the section and category where the item will be listed; for example, if you’re selling a couch you must list it under the household section or lounge furniture. You have to provide a price, compile a short title that describes what you’re advertising, submit text with more details on the item and photos. Lastly, you need to include your contact details where interested buyers can get hold of you as well as your region and suburb.
Product and marketing manager for Junk Mail, Francois Labuschagne, shares five tips to ensure your online ad attracts attention.
Know your customer
Keep in mind who your typical buyer of the product is and what they want to know about the item – your ad should highlight the aspects of the item that appeal to customers. For example, if you’re selling a fridge, include the make, model, capacity, colour and condition.
Do your homework
Look at ads that advertise similar items and if they grab your attention try and imitate the descriptions or similar photos.
Use the right wording
You’ll be required to write a title and description. The title needs to say exactly what you are offering. In other words, what the product is, the make and model number. Keep the title and description short, but with the necessary info. The first words in the description need to grab potential buyers’ attention and make them want to read the rest of the ad. The description must state the key features of the product, for example, a fridge’s description can include whether it has a freezer compartment or an icemaker, as well as it’s condition.
Use multiple photos
Include a couple of photos taken from various angles as this increases the likelihood of potential buyers responding.
Check your ad
Classified sites offer a proofreading service, but insufficient facts as well as typing and spelling mistakes can detract buyers from reading and responding. Carefully read through the copy or ask someone else to check it for you to make sure you’ve included the right information.
A good incentive to get rid of the clutter is to use the cash you’ll receive from the sale to buy a new appliance or to put the money towards your holiday fund. Perhaps you’re saving to buy something specific and the extra cash will bring you a step closer to your next big purchase.
