Question
Hello here
Looking to discuss the best method for listing template design. The proven way to inform bidders while at the same time enticing them to bid. This would include numerous subjects such as where in a listing should you place the pics, how big they should be, how many? What information is manditory for ensuring trust in the transaction? What color scheme proves best?
eBay provides good assistance in the help sections, but what have successful sellers implemented that has helped increase sales? Any examples we can look at?
What has worked for you?
MT
Answer
Hi MT ~
At first I read that as "how to best market listing template designs?" - as in, you want to sell auction templates. But I think you mean, what kind of template / layout will best sell your item?
I think people around here (and on eBay) are gonna go for the LESS IS MORE approach - but don't take that to the extreme and go for small black text on solid white BG - that does nothing to set the item and your description/terms apart from eBays page-stuff.
Determine if you want one all-encompassing design for all your items, or if you have several different types of merch - maybe a matching theme for each.
You could try a nice muted color BG in a table setup, with a contrast/bold border. Avoid patterns unless its reallllly subtle or is a small one (like, small polka dots or a thin stripe/plaid, whatever) Try to keep use of different colors (ESPECIALLY in your TEXT) to a minimum - it actually works better to vary the size of your text or just use bold to point out or emphasize certain points.
At least one very good, fairly large photo that shows the most of the particular item, then you can add other/more detailed images (of damage, or other points of interest on the item) either as thumbnails with a click-to-enlarge feature or just make them all the same size, but be sure to crunch the file size down.
I tend to prefer everything centered but if you go the side-by-side route, I suggest the description on the left and item pics on the right. (We read left to right- so to me, I dunno, I find it annoying to have the text to the right of the pics. But I'm also a weirdo about that stuff, so ... there ya go.)
Another thing to try is go randomly browsing auctions for things you either don't really need or wouldn't normally buy on eBay, and on the ones you like the looks of their listing - ask yourself if that would entice YOU to BUY.
(And also look at stuff you DO want, and see if the sellers who have cruddy designs turn you off from bidding.)
Hope that helps a little!
~ gem ~
Answer
Thanks Gem
You are correct. How to best market an item through template design is what I am getting at. I find that the less is more approch to be an easy way to quickly list items but horrible for enticing people to bid. Kind of off topic but, I am a trading assistant that gets all kinds of unique items in. Most of the time, the owners know little about the items and simply want to give eBay a try. Then there are the people who lay claim that their items are worth thousands yet they have no idea about its history (someone just told them). Is it better to play safe, describe only the information given then supply a disclaimer in an attempt to free yourself from any liability? Or should you not accept an item at all?
In terms of layout, I agree with the left to right method. Read then look. We use a white BG with section heading designed with the eBay colors (red, blue, yellow, green). The actual listing info is black and white with all the pics on the right and measuring about 3" square. I would love to do the click to enlarge method but have not mastered the html required to do that...yet.
I have informed my picture and listing pals to take as many pictures to fully describe the item and any damage. We typically use 10 to 15 photos per auction! I do think this is excessive but want to make sure the bidder has plenty to go on. And because I cannot do the thumbnail approach at this time, the load time for my listings can be extensive. Especially for dial up!
In any event, thanks for the reply and helpful info.
MT
Answer
Mornin
So if you are after the best way for your TA items - definitely use the same template for all those items, and it's probably good that you have it set up similar in style to eBays pages (might foster a little more trust in your operation)
I PERSONALLY would do up a small (short-to-the-point-hitting all the major issues) disclaimer on those things - not so much to absolve yourself from any responsibility but to say "Hey, I do my best to list honestly & accurately on these items but occasionally I may not be given all the info" and make sure they know should there BE a problem you will do your best to resolve it.
You could have it right there in the auction (maybe above the photos) and/or do link to the full policy on your me page?
Good luck with it!
and if you are looking for some more varied input,
try re-posting or linking this thread up in the
eBay Discussions forum, you'll probably see more action upstairs
Have a great day (& weekend)
~ gem ~