Step #5 “KISS” Your Text

Written by Texas Tracy on February 13, 2008

Growing up, did you ever have an English teacher who came into class, put an apple on the table, and then told you to pull out a piece of notebook paper and write a page describing the apple? Well, I didn’t either, but it sure is a good exercise in learning how to describe an item. As you list more and more items, your text will come quite naturally and you will know what it is you need to include. Just starting out though, as an ebay newbie it may seem more challenging.

“KISS” your text. In other words, when thinking of what to say about your item, keep it simple stupid (no unkind feelings intended)! You need not go into marginal or unrelated blah-blah. Your bidders want to know the facts:

Size- Small, medium or large if applicable
Dimensions- Height and weight
Color-Does the real color match what is represented in your photos?
Condition-Here, you must be truthful. It will bite you in the butt otherwise. I feel it is better to err on the side of caution.
Special Features- Is there something about your item that is unique? Something that sets it apart from other items listed on ebay? Toot your item’s horn here.
Shipping Terms-You have gotta know this at the beginning of the auction. People don’t want surprises here.
Return Policy-You may or may not have thought about this yet, but it is something to comtemplate. Someone will ask you. I will cover this in detail at a later date.

OK, that about covers it. Wait…are you sure this is enough? Yep, if this is all you include it would be fine. Now, for example, on condition, let us look at this Gucci checkbook holder:

For condition, one could write:

The condition of this checkbook holder wallet is good. Lots of life left.

Wow, that sounds ok by me the bidder, I will bid high! But wait, is that wear I see on the four corners? Will I be loving this item when I open up my box? Maybe…or maybe not. Perhaps the condition should read this way:

The overall condition of this wallet is used, but still looks nice. There is wear showing on all four corners-I tried to catch it in the photos (provide supporting photos). Also, please note that the leather on the inside is split from the side-I actually think it may have been previously used for a side tear checkpad (see supporting photo). ‘GG’ logo canvas is in great shape with no splits.

Hmmm, maybe I won’t bid as high, but if I do bid I realize that the checkbook holder has a few issues, but I think I can live with them. Do you see the difference? Many, many times I see sellers who want you to look at the item through rose colored glasses. This is unfair to your bidders and it will reek havoc on your feedback. You may get by with it from time to time, but it is a risky slope to travel (and…why I offer a satisfaction guarantee on all of my items-I want happy buyers!).

To close, there is more to cover on text. But, if you are wanting to list your item today this is a good beginning. Email me if you have questions or need help.

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