Marketing 101 for your TA Biz - Part 1

Many new eBay Trading Assistants are full of energy and excitement when they successfully sold items for their first client. Many TAs actually get started because their first client came to them (usually as a family member, friend or acquaintance). The problem TAs quickly run into is how to get new clients. Don't worry...There are many ways and most won't cost you a fortune either.

The first thing to do is make sure you are registered as an eBay Trading Assistant and get your profile completed so you are listed in the eBay TA Directory. Many TAs think that this is all they have to do and the clients will come a'knockin. The truth is most trading assistants get very few leads and even fewer clients through this method.

The second thing every serious trading assistant should have is business cards. They don't have to be fancy but the more professional looking the better. These cards should be handed out to everyone you know and come in contact with. They are cheap enough to buy online, so go with full color and a glossy finish for a quality look. I get my cards printed using an online printing service which is convenient and saves me money. 50% OFF Premium "Custom" Business Cards

Next you should have some flyers or brochures created describing your services. Leave several of them with you clients. You will be surprised how quickly they will tell their friends and hand off your info.

Another way to generate new business is to offer incentives. Let your existing clients know that you appreciate referrals and will kick them back a referral fee (fixed amount or percentage) for each new client they send your way. Also you might want to include a coupon in a flyer or brochure for new clients to get a discounted commission rate on their first item you sell for them.

Direct mail can be very effective if done right. You really need to do your research and target your mailings to clients who have the right things to sell. Most likely you will want to target a demographic area that is made up of 30-40 year olds and older with a middle to upper class status. Seniors are also a great group to sell for who have wonderful items like antiques, rare collectibles and more.

A little marketing creativity can go a long way and it doesn't have to cost you a fortune either. In a future post I will cover some online marketing methods.