Online salesmanship - Work it! Sell it!

This is something I have been wanting to do for a while now. I understand that it just makes it that much easier to purchase something if you can see it being worn. Occasionally I get the request to photo a piece of jewelry as it is worn so the customer can get a better idea of how it will look. I like to be accommodating but at the same time, it's not an easy task to get a good photo while contorting oneself to get a proper photo, usually in the bathroom with several mirrors and that great "bathroom lighting".

So, I gave in. I got some fake ladies. This also makes use of the fancy clothes that I used to wear when I worked for "the man" at the credit union. So now my ladies are snappy dressers, and can help show my jewelry to its full potential. I got them here.

I know not everyone is a professional photographer. (click for tips) I don't think you have to be to sell your items well online. What is required however, it the ability to photograph in such a way that it intrigues the buyer and makes them want to know more. Take detailed photos that show the quality craftsmanship of your work. Reassure the buyer that they will be very satisfied with their purchase. Take a look at some popular magazines. What are they doing to make things catch your eye? Is it something that you can learn from?

Once you have a persons attention, give them some information to peak their interest even more. Some people will be looking for specific details, keep those details right at the top and easy to find. Make it easy for people who are actually looking for what you sell to get the details they are looking for. Make that information easy to read by writing things in detail but at the same time keeping the descriptions simple and precise.

After you have the basics out of the way, elaborate. Write about the creative process and thought behind the item for sale. Give the work some history from your point of view, and if you can, make a connection to the buyer. Knowing the details behind the creation of your work can greatly increase it's value for many buyers.(including myself). This can also make your items stand out from the crowd which is always a plus in such a highly competitive venue.

Now that your listing portion is done, be sure to add a few more basic details that someone needs to know before they purchase. Assume that the buyer will not bother to check your shop policies or profile. What do they need to know? Make it extremely easy for people to purchase. Include information on how you ship, where you ship, whether you offer any kind of tracking and how they should expect their purchase to arrive.

Tag your items appropriately. Include the basics such as materials used, specific colors and shapes. Also include words that evoke emotion and apply to your item. Is it classic, modern, art deco, delicate, intricate, old-fashioned? Many times buyers don't search for materials, simply because they don't have anything specific in mind.

Make sure when you are doing business that you don't accidentally infringe on any copyrights. It's always good when you are doing this, as a business especially, that you are familiar with the rules, regulations, and laws that apply to your craft and materials. Don't put yourself in a situation that could cost significant issues for your business.

This is a learning process, and it takes time, patience, persistence and a ton of effort. Keep learning and growing and if you can do all that, in time you will be successful in your work.

Best of sales to you all! Happy buying too!
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Licia is the founder of the Awesome Chicks of Etsy blog and has been selling online since 2007. This blog originated as a way to assist others in selling online at Etsy and other venues. She sells her jewelry and supplies at LiciaBeads.