eBay Trends for 2007

Although we're facing a hectic holiday season, it's not too soon for sellers to plan for 2007. As a matter of fact, as an experienced seller, you should all have your first-quarter business plan ready to go now. And while you probably feel you have your business under control, you should be prepared for plenty of unseen variables.

Here are a few thoughts as to what you might see change in the marketplace and how you can make the most of your eBay (EBAY Quote) listings over the coming year.

Expect Cost Increases

Sellers always seem to be caught unaware when eBay or PayPal changes a policy or when they (dare I even breathe the thought?) raise their fees. Like the changing of the weather, increased fees -- in one form or another -- should always be expected.

Realize that it's not because eBay is a big bad company that wants to pilfer from our pockets, but because they're constantly attempting to improve the site to make it the ultimate marketplace for online shoppers, and they need to cover their costs.

UPS (UPS Quote), FedEx (FDX Quote) and the U.S. Postal Service also tend to raise their fees each year, so plan to add that cost to your shipping fees. Last year, the Postal Service increased the flat rate and one-pound priority rate to $4.05, bringing the amount we charge buyers for small-item shipping close to $5. Next year, you may have to exceed the $5 price point.

Market With Charity Listings

eBay Giving Works (through MissionFish) has raised more than $34 million for nonprofits to date. Many sellers have found that by participating in this program and contributing a portion of their sales to a charity, they've increased their bids and final sale prices. This marketing model makes a lot of sense based on my customer service theory: By donating to a charity, you build an image of being a caring business on eBay rather than just another seller. Remember these facts:

• Listings stand out with a Giving Works ribbon icon.

• Your chosen nonprofit's mission statement is on every listing that benefits them.

• Each donation is tax-deductible (MissionFish provides the receipt for you).

• The eBay fee credit policy rewards your generosity.

Increase Seller-Buyer Communication

If you've been listing items for the holidays, you might notice a new option on the sell-your-item form: You have the opportunity to include a Skype link in your listings. Skype is eBay's Web communication arm. By using it, your buyers can either call you by using a microphone and their computer speakers or open a chat window to ask you questions.

Although many sellers feel that communication with customers is a bother, by answering questions quickly, your sales will go up. Again, here's the theme of increased customer satisfaction in 2007.