It’s probably fair to say that one of the key reasons why many auctions end unsuccessfully on eBay is because people have got their auction title WRONG.
With the eBay marketplace is becoming ever more over-crowded, it’s now increasingly more important to create auction titles that work. You really do need to stand out from your rival eBay sellers.
So what does an auction title need to do?
Its most important job is to get people to click onto your auction. You can have the most amazing bargain in the world, or an absolutely fantastic and compelling advert, but if people never get that far then you’ll never make sales. The first step in the buying process is for people to click onto your auctions.
So how do I create a “winning” title?
The tips below are what I’ve learned as an eBay seller over the past few years. I’ve tried many different strategies and ideas, and these are the ones that work. They bring in the buyers time and time again.
“MY TOP 6 TITLE TIPS”
Create mystery.
A relatively unknown ‘secret’ is to create mystery around your auction or product. This makes intrigues people, and ultimately results in more people clicking onto your auction.
Let’s say you’re trying to sell an ebook called “Profits from Adwords” that contains information on how to create an income through ads on Google. Instead of using a traditional title like “Profits from Adwords eBook – the secrets to success,” trying using a title such as “Make a Great Income from Writing Three Lines of Text.” You’re not revealing exactly what the product is you’re trying to sell, rather what the product can do for the buyer. Another example may be with relaxation oils. Try a title such as “The Most RELAXING Thing I’ve Ever Tried.”
People may feel more compelled to click on your auction, but of course it does have its disadvantages, and it may not be the correct strategy for every product. After all, it’s pretty hard to create excitement and mystery around a pack of envelopes for example! It also slightly contradicts one of my rules below… but it CAN and DOES work if it’s the right product.
Use capital letters
This is a MUST in an eBay auction title - Start Each Word In Your Title With A Capital Letter Like This. It makes your title stand out from people who don’t, and can actually be more effective than using paid eBay options such as a bold title. You can also try putting certain key words in full capitals to draw attention to a unique selling point or a particularly attractive feature. If the item you’re selling is brand new then draw attention to this fact in your title.
Make sure you include as many keywords as possible
Most people find items on eBay by using the search facility, therefore it’s important that you include words in your title that people are likely to be searching for. People that write titles which are just plain un-descriptive will lose out on sales. This tip seems like an obvious one, but you would be shocked at how many people don’t optimize their titles with proper keyword use!
Spell accurately
Spelling mistakes don’t show up in search results. If I search for “Playstation” and your auction title has it listed as “Playstataion” then I won’t find your item. Most people don’t make spelling mistakes purposely, that’s why they’re called mistakes. If you notice that you did make a mistake after you’ve already listed your item you may still be able to go back and correct it if you do so prior to any bids being placed. One misspelled keyword can ruin all your hard work!
Be descriptive
If you’re selling a new item, make sure you point that out in your title. If your item is in excellent condition, again make sure you say so. Try to be creative as well, look at your auction title as a buyer would.
Example, instead of saying “Pair Of Computer Speakers Used Condition Work Great” – try “Pair Of Computer Speakers w/ Manual Included – Like New.”
Finally…
Use paid options sparingly. eBay offers all kinds of options that are designed to increase clicks on your auctions, such as Bold and Highlight, but I’ve usually found that these don’t have a large enough impact on auction visitor numbers to justify the cost. It may well depend on what you’re selling, but I firmly believe that good wording is much more important. You can’t always buy success on eBay.
Remember:
1.) Create mystery and excitement
2.) Use capital letters
3.) Include keywords
4.) Spell accurately
5.) Be descriptive
6.) Use paid options sparingly
Chris Vendilli is the owner, founder, and CEO of The 3 Rivers Auctions Company. Be sure to visit his website at
http://www.3riversauctions.com to get eBay tools, tips, strategies, info, and secrets! While you’re there sign up for the information packed weekly newsletter and the discussion forums. You can network with other members, advertise your own auctions or website, ask questions, and get answers!
