
Selling on the internet is becoming more and more competitive. More people have access to the internet than ever. More sellers are entering the marketplace. More baby boomers are looking for an additional income stream when facing retirement. More women are looking for ways to make money at home while caring for their children. Even with our changing society and the constant advancements in technology, one mantra holds true in all aspects of business, "The only foundation of real business is service."
Those were the words written by Henry Ford in his autobiography, nearly 80 years ago. Ford understood that success is built on service. And to provide successful service, one must have the right attitude: being the best we can, working to be the best in our field, and considering the needs of our customers (even if they don't know what they are yet). Ok, so what does this history lesson have to do with eBay?![]()
Ford's principles can be applied in today's eCommerce marketplace. Remember, you are nothing without your customers. They are they key to your success in any marketplace. Whether you are selling computers or camping equipment, just remember that service is the cornerstone of your business and is what keeps customers (and their wallets) coming back. One customer can become a repeat customer and buy from you potentially forever. One customer can tell an indefinite number of other potential customers about you.
Remember the serivce ethic when you are tempted to charge a little too much for shipping, don't feel like answering customer emails, or aren't in the mood to take your orders to the post office. Customers can make or break an eBay business, so remember they are your top priority.






So true. I think about how many times I've had a business "go the extra mile" for me, and how I remember that, and will sing their praises to others, and go back to them again. One helpful saleslady who gets a fitting room started for me at a dress store can mean years worth of return sales from me. With ebay selling, where everything is relatively anonymous, I think going the extra mile is even more important.
Posted by: Jan | May 21, 2008 3:06 PM | Permalink to Comment