From the Editor
It's been a busy two weeks in the ecommerce industry, with earnings reports and eBay's annual meeting. Check in for a recap and some important news about PayPal and about eBay's dispute resolution process. AuctionBytes has lost a beloved friend and mascot, and today's issue is dedicated to Maggie the Auction Hound.
Ruby Lane President Tom Johnson Remains Bullish on Antiques
One of the best strategies for running a business in good times and bad is not a strategy at all - it's way of life. Create a business in a field you know well and that is already your passion, and you'll do the work to make it thrive and grow as the market changes. Tom Johnson, president of the antiques marketplace Ruby Lane, is a good example of someone who has put that strategy to work and made his online marketplace a way of life.
eBay Alternatives Review, Part 3: Bonanzle and WeBidz
Writer and online seller Ed Tomchin proposed to put some notes together as he researched online auction sites he was considering using for himself. In part one, Ed examined eBid, OnlineAuction and Overstock Auctions. In part two, he reviewed Atomic Mall and Wensy. And in today's issue, he takes a look at Bonanzle and WeBidz. Ed writes his reviews from the perspective of a 10-year seller of vintage, collectible, useful and other odd goods.
First Item Sold Online: Gifting Adventures of a James Brown Singing Doll
Do you remember the first item you ever sold online? Let us know by sending an email to ina@auctionbytes.com and we may publish your story. Today we hear Andy who had an interesting adventure with a James Brown singing doll he received at a Christmas gift exchange. The lesson: when you can't give something away, try selling it online! It just might make you "feel good"!
This & That: Online Auction Roundup:
Mark your calendars, USPS rates go up May 11th; Small Business Mastercard holders may be able to offset some of those rate hikes; Two new sites for merchants - all this and MORE in our This & That column!
Collector's Corner: Belt Buckles
While belt buckles may be closely associated with Midwestern cowboys and cowgirls, they have been in use since the dawn of history. Michele Alice takes a look at the appeal of belt buckles and what collectors are looking for when adding to their collections.
AuctionBytes Soundoff: Letters from Readers
In every issue, readers soundoff about issues important to them. From feedback to payment services, from increased fees to posting policies, AuctionBytes Soundoff gives you a chance to air your views.
Discussion Forums
Have a question about buying or selling online? Want to get marketing or technical advice? AuctionBytes Discussion Forums are the place to come to get answers to your questions and get advice! Great tips - a refreshing change! Discussions going on right now!
eBay Drop-Off Stores
AuctionBytes has created a consignment resource page. We've put together a chart of eBay drop-off stores and have links to articles and resources to learn more about consignment selling, the latest trend in the online auction industry!
Marketing Inserts Sellers! Create custom flyers to add to your auction packages. Simply fill in and print out! GREAT for marketing yourself to your buyers!
AuctionBytes Bookshelf A guide to some of the best books and reports for online auction buyers and sellers! Compiled by Ina Steiner, Editor of AuctionBytes.
