Tips for Becoming an Online Entrepreneur: Selling on eBay

Today's I Want to Be features Jackie Williams, a homeschooling mom to 3 boys, ages 6, 4 and 2.  She has another on the way.  She runs a part-time business selling on eBay.  Finding out how to connect with Jackie at the end of this article.

How long have you had your business?

Since 2009.

What led you to pursue it?

I started out by just selling off boys’ clothes after we were finished with them.  Once I realized I could make a decent amount of money selling clothes on eBay, I began going to yard sales and purchasing items to sell.  I stick with mainly children's clothes because that is what I enjoy selling.  But I will pretty much sell anything that I know I can make a profit on!

Are you full time or part time?  If part-time, do you anticipate switching to full time?

Part time.  As a homeschooling SAHM with 4 boys (6, 4, 2, one on the way), I can’t imagine making this a full time job right now.

How do you market your business?

 Mostly word of mouth.  I have sold items for others who have heard that I already have an eBay business started.  It saves them the hassle of selling and me the hassle of shopping.  I have also included business cards in my shipments in the past to try to get repeat customers.

What is your favorite part of the business?

Hearing the “cha-ching” on my phone when someone makes a bid or something sells.

What one question do you get most from people about your business?

How much do you make selling on eBay?

What one myth or misconception do you want to dispel about the work you do?

You can make money selling on eBay.

What advice do you have for others who want to get into a similar opportunity?

Find something that you like and know something about.  You can make as much as you want doing this.  You may sell 1 item and profit $100 or you may have to sell 100 items to make $100.

What is the first step?

Sell what you have around your house.  There is no initial investment, and it gives you experience.

What websites or books do you recommend for tips?

The Ebay forums have lots of people that are willing to answer your questions and help you out if you have a problem. That's where I always turn when I need help.

You can learn more about what Jackie does at her eBay store, Angel Threads.

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