Selling Online: Busy Platforms Like Amazon, eBay or Start My Own Website Instead?
We look at the pros and cons of selling online on big platforms vs. setting up your own eCommerce site
Starting an online business and selling online is super exciting. There’s no doubt. But it is challenging to know where to begin.
One of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make is whether to sell your products on established platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Mercari, or whether to create your own website.
The Pros and Cons of Selling on Busy Platforms
One of the most significant advantages of selling on these busy platforms is the sheer volume of traffic they receive. With millions of users visiting these sites each day, there’s a greater chance of your products being seen by potential customers.
However, there are also downsides to consider. These platforms charge fees for listing and selling products, which can eat into your profits. Additionally, you’ll be competing with countless other sellers, which can make it challenging to stand out from the crowd.
The Pros and Cons of Creating Your Own Website
On the other hand, creating your own website gives you complete control over your business. You can design your website to reflect your brand, and you won’t have to pay fees to a third-party platform.
However, there are some potential drawbacks to consider as well.
Creating a professional-looking website can be challenging, particularly if you don’t have any design experience. As mentioned earlier, there are many design considerations that go into making a trustworthy-looking website, and it can be difficult to know where to start.
When to Hire a Designer
If you’re a designer or have a great eye for graphic composition, you might not need to hire a designer to help you. But if you don’t have much experience in this area, it’s a good idea to find a good designer to help you.
Be careful when choosing a designer, though, as not all designers are created equal. You’ll want to find someone who has a strong portfolio and a track record of creating professional-looking websites – as well as excellent customer reviews.
How To Get Started
Ultimately, the decision of whether to sell on busy platforms or create your own website depends on your individual goals and circumstances.
If you’re just starting out, it might be a good idea to begin by selling on established platforms to get your feet wet. As your business grows, you can always consider creating your own website.
Whatever you decide, remember that starting an online business takes hard work and dedication, but if you learn a lot and are willing to do the work, and try different approaches as you work out the kinks, it can be a rewarding and profitable endeavor.
Once you’ve made a decision, there are a few key steps to getting started. If you choose to sell on established platforms, you’ll need to create an account and start listing your products. Make sure to do your research on the platform’s policies and fees before you get started.
If you decide to create your own website, you’ll need to choose a domain name, purchase hosting, and design your site. Consider using a website builder or hiring a web designer to help you with the process.
Regardless of which route you choose, remember to stay focused on your goals and stay dedicated to your business. With hard work and perseverance, you can build a successful online business that brings in profits for years to come.