1. A buyer sends you a story about how they "need" the item and explain all the reasons they do not have the money to pay your asking price.
2. Your item is listed with a defect or for parts, and the customer makes a comment like, "Since it is in such bad condition, I'll give you X - you won't get your asking price."
3. Customer writes a long drawn-out narrative of everything that has gone wrong in their life and why you should come down on your price.
4. Customer compares the price of your vintage or discontinued item to a retail price. "I can get this at Costco for $10, why are you charging $30? (Obviously, they can't get it at Costco or they wouldn't be on eBay looking for it.)
The best course of action is to hold your tongue and reply in a professional way. Here are some great responses from sellers:
Lisa said, "Thank you for your interest. My price is firm but does include free shipping if that helps." Don't get drawn into rationalizing/explaining.
Amy said, "Accept, counter or decline, then move on. I have best offer on all my items. When I get an offer I glance at the offer and any message they may include and click the button and move on. There's no need for snarky replies, drawn out explanations, etc. It's a negotiation technique that some buyers use - it either works for them or doesn't. Sellers insulting them, trying to make them feel bad or just being plain out rude isn't going to stop them from making the same offers elsewhere. Just accept, counter or decline."
Sharon said, "I am sorry, I am not accepting offers on this product at this time."
These are all great answers. Bottom line, don't take it personally if someone doesn't like your price. You don't have to explain your pricing or rationalize about why an item is priced a certain way. This is business. Keep it professional. Do your research, know the value of your item, and stick to your price. The right buyer will come along and be happy to pay your asking price.
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Hi Suzanne,
ReplyDeleteGreat topic, as an Ebay seller I have the same problem. I had people complaining and even questioned my business ethics on my mark up. I first I took it personally on the comments, but later I figure to take it as professional as possible because either way they are still potential customers.
At the other end of the spectrum, I also have people thanking me for selling them my items. So in this business there are always haters and lovers.