Videos get clicks. Let’s drive some eBay traffic! (VIDEO)
Tuesday, September 18th, 2007 - 7:39 am
In the newsletter that went out today I talked about a new idea for driving traffic from eBay to affiliate programs, opt-in lists, or websites without violating eBay policy.
Experienced eBay sellers and those familiar with the “about me” page can skip forward to about the 2:17 mark. The front end of the video is for “newbies”.
For EVERYONE though - this is an idea you haven’t seen before!
Alternate links to video:
YouTube
FreeIQ
Please leave me your feedback after you watch it.
Jim,
That’s a really cool twist on putting video in the listings which, by the way, is a great auction booster.
Cheers - Andy
www.liquid8music.com - music gear auctions
Hey Jim,
Great ideas - as usual. Keep up the great work!
Very good, especially with all the Ebay rules!
Great help in thinking around them to reach our customers!
Perfect, Thanks Jim !!!
Hi Jim,
that’s a great tip! If only I understood how to ‘insert the code’ so that when the picture is clicked on it takes the person to my eBay page. Is the way to do it freely available anywhere?
Thanks
[[reply from Jim]]: Toward the end of the video I give you the exact HTML code that you need to drop into your auction to make it all work. When you are listing an item for sale eBay give you the choice to use the HTML or standard listing option. If you choose HTML and drop in that code you are all set! You can use a free picture host photbucket.com to host the pics. Anyone else have some good free photo hosting sites they can suggest?
Jim, this is a great idea. A perfectly legal way to use the ‘lost leader’ marketing concept to drive traffic.
Thanks! - Terri
www.shearbridal.com - all things weddings
I wish I would have thought of this idea. Please keep them coming. Not sure about anyone else, but I can use all the help I can get. Thanks!
Great idea, Jim, but if you’re running multiple auctions would you really want to put all the videos on your about me page?
Nick
http://mustseepromotions.com/
[[reply from Jim]]: why not use the same image in all auctions? Just make it an interesting image…
Jim,
Great content. Your books and sites make the business of internet marketing and ebay sales a snap!
Thanks, Greg www.HouseHub.com
- Deep Discounted Houses and Real Estate
Your instructions are always so clear~
Yes, do please make more!!
Excellent idea! My guess is that a variant of that will also work anywhere you are allowed to post images…
Fantastic!!
Keep up the great work and-
Thanks again
Bobbie Davis
bobbie44dee@yahoo.com
Hey Jim,
Jeff Hall here..
Another fantastic video for all us eBayers.
Your remarkable, and freely given marketing information is what gave my wife Sandy and I our successful experience in eBay and internet marketing.
I also want to thank you Jim, for allowing
Sandy to be a part of your outstanding website as one of your highly acclaimed experts on mysilentteam.com.
That site is an inspiration to a lot of us on the internet.
This latest video gave me a great idea that I’m implementing onto our About Me pages right away.
I’ll let you know how much traffic improves to our brand new website I just launched.
Which I’m going to promote on our About Me pages with a video.
I just love your “Out The Box Thinking” Jim.
Thanks Again,
Jeff Hall
www.crisp100dollarbills.com
Great video Jim. I screen captured the instructions with the code page !:) Another super learning tip! Thanks again!
Hey Jim,
This is for Stuart Roberts..
A really great free site for hosting photos and to “easily” launch your eBay auctions is:
www.auctiva.com
My wife Sandy and I use this free site to launch all of our eBay auctions, as well as hosting all of our auction photos.
And we host all of our website photos here as well.
Completely free of charge.
We save a tremendous amount of money on eBay’s extra fees for adding photos to your auction listings. Plus a whole lot more.
We’ve saved hundreds and hundreds of dollars using their features instead of the same features that eBay charges for.
Hope this helps,
Regards,
Jeff Hall
www.crisp100dollarbills
Way to go Jim. Don’t stop, you got the right stuff. Take it to the Moon and beyond.
Great video Jim. I do have one question. Would you just put a generic video in even if it has nothing to do with your auction content? This is a great idea but I wonder what eBay will say if the video has nothing to do with the auction item. I hope it is still OK as this will defiantly drive more traffic to your about me page.
Thanks again and keep up the good work
Phil
[[reply from Jim]]: Oddly enough eBay’s policies about videos (as found here: http://pages.ebay.com/help/policies/listing-links.html) state nothing about the videos relevance to the auction. It will perform better for you of course if it is relevant…but it’s not a current requirement. The policies say things like “The seller must be the owner of the underlying rights”, “The video may not solicit unsafe payment methods such as Western Union”, “The video may not include software that harms or interferes with the viewer’s machine” etc.
Nothing in there about “relevance”, but again, relevance is probably key in getting customers to act.
Great idea? I love it. I understand it all but one thing. Does the video have to be about the item up for auction? What are the ebay rules on the videos in auctions? If not what type of thing should we do a video about?
It’s still all new to me forgive my if it’s a no brainer.
Thanks for another NEW idea. Natalie
[[reply from Jim]]: See the response I left for Phil
Hi Jim
This is an excellent twist, I have a video linked directly to Google Video from one of
my store items…Your absolutely right, the
possibilities are endless linking to the About Me page…Great tip!
Regards
Andy
www.andeezmedia.com
Genuine Velcro(R) Brand Products
Jim,
Great video and very simple and helpful. Please make more…they are short and to the point and very useful.
Thanks a million!!
Fantastic…as usual! I have enjoyed every bit of info you have every made available to us. This video has given me a great idea…Thank You!
I have been using a youtube video to drive traffic to my auctions so I realize the power of youtube.This is powerful stuff.Please keep this kind of information flowing to us. Thanks Jim. I have both of your books.
[[reply from Jim]]: Thanks for the kind feedback! Not to self promote too much, but there are actually 3 books. SilentSalesMachine.com, AuctionTrafficCash.com, PartTimePlan.com. Visit the order page of either of the first two and get a special price on a 3 book bundle.
Thank you so much. The SSM book was my inspiration to get into intermarketing.
I believe an earlier commentor had the same idea: there doesnt have to be a video on the AboutMe page; you could just make a relevant image clickable and insert it into the auction. Right?
[[reply from Jim]]: testing will tell the story, but right now it’s hard to beat the click through rate on a video image…
Super idea! I appreciate your willingness to share your ideas with us so we can create a successful online business. Knowing how we can use this one idea without breaking the eBay rules will definately be a great advantage to our auctions which offers easy access to redirect traffic to the “about me” page. Keep the ideas flowing… Thank you!
The wheels are turning in my mind. This is a great idea. I have your book and it is well worth the price. I loved sampling the membership site. Hope to join before long. Please, please, please keep the videos coming.
Thank you,
Julie
sororitysisters.blogspot.com
I love the way you explain things so simply!
This is a great idea and thanks for sharing it!
Linda
Hi Jim, I really liked the idea of pointing the screenshot to my About Me page. Can I just ask exactly where/how you put the html code in the ebay auction listing ? I assume it must be attached to the image but how do you make this happen ? Sorry for the dumb question ! Thanks, Martin
That is an awesome idea. Now I need to make some videos. Anyone have a camera I can borrow?
Since you gave me such an awesome tip I would like to give you one too for your next videos.
If you could make the video window smaller that would be great. I had to scroll a few times to see the whole thing and I have a 17 inch flat panel screen.
Keep ‘em coming though. Your tips are always awesome.
Jim, hello again. I have a little more about my previous question. You put your screenshot in your auction and direct them to your “About Me “page. Do you then have them click again on your video to play or would you make it play automatically? If it plays automatically they would not see your about me page. After the video how do you direct them back to your auction? Some would know to use the “back” button and some may not. Would you need to provide directional instructions? I know that this may be basic to some but I am new to the big picture.
Thanks again and keep up the good work.
We all appreciate it
Phil
shopbic.com
[[reply from Jim]]: you said: “If it plays automatically they would not see your about me page” You need to embed the video in your about me page. For example, every YouTube video has a code associated with it that allows it to be uploaded to any page on the web. You’d need to upload it to your “about me” page.
Jim,
Another great tip. I have both SSM & PTP. I’ve put video on my auctions before, but doing the screen capture to send them to the about me page is outstanding idea and encourages click-through. Keep up the good work!
Your the best! ‘nother fantastic idea,
Thanks and please keep’m coming.
later,
Jack
I watched the video and I think you did a good job with it. I appreciate the hints regarding the about me page!
Jim’s Da Man!
Excellent Jim!
Most people learn better from watching. You explained and illustated the whole procedure very well.
More of these will be great!
Hi Jim,
I only just recently purchased your book and its 10 out of 10 so far. The video tip in the”about me” page is a great idea.
Jack from Oz
Jim, hello again. I guess I didn’t make my self to clear. I know that you would code the page to show on your about me page and when they clicked the image on your auction page that your about me page would come up with the video in a section of the about me page. Would you want the video to start automatically (like a PowerPoint presentation starts when you open it) or would you want them to click on the video play button? Next would you need to direction them back to your auction? I am still a little new to all this and I appreciate all your help.
Thanks again
Phil
shopbic.com
[[reply from Jim]]: you could either automatically start the video or you could require another click of the play button once they get to your about me page. Either way it’s the act of clicking the image the first time that gets you traffic to the “about me” page. There is no need to direct people back to your auction. It is a universal skill to use the “back” button when moving from one page to another and then back again. I’m more interested in picking up a new subscriber or lead than in having one more person see my auction. If the customer is interested in the auction they’ll go back to it.
Great idea jim! I have your book and Recommend it to my ebay friends.
Hi Jim,
Great idea Jim, I’ve often been stuck trying to link my auctions to my ‘about me’ page in a more exciting way than just standard text.
I was about to add something similar to my website www.easyincome247.com
but you beat me to it.
Keep the good ideas coming!
Regards,
Mick
Hi Jim,
Your eMails are one of the few that I actually read, because I find them good and interesting.
I’ve watched the video, and it is packed with good info. Just a couple of things. I didn’t actually SEE your image! When you mention “Video” I expect to SEE something!
Also, how can I copy the html code to paste into the Auction page.
Keep the “goodies” coming, and hey, thanks a lot.
[[reply from Jim]]: you mean you want to see my face?? Trust me - you aren’t missing much… To copy the code from the video to your about me page you’ll need to type it out one time and then use copy paste from now on. Once you have a good “generic” video you can drop it into all your auctions.
RE: image hosting accounts — the only reason I have kept my AOL account for FREE is because I have 7 names, each with loads of free ftp space where I host all my ebay images for free. There is room for hundreds and hundreds of images. This was a great video, thank you again for very helpful info!
hi jim,excelent video and fantastic concept,another winner jim,many thanks.
simon UK
You always have great ideas! Thanks
These instructions are extremely helpful. Nice to have it simple
Great tip… Can’t wait to try it…
keep the ideas flowing…
Great Job Jim. You really are a teacher and you enjoy it. Thank You for being there for all of us. Keep up these videos. Jim
You rock. Have a great vacation.
Great video, I always learn a lot from you Jim.
Hi Jim,
I know you’re probably already with that sweet little girl. I hope your entire family has a wonderful adventure!
Well, I spent about 2 hours today watching your video over several times and applying your ideas. I put my YouTube video in my About Me page. (The page needs more work, but that is to come.)
Then, I went by your directions exactly, and I now have the link in each one of my wreath auctions which leads them directly to the video on my About Me Page.
You’re ingenious AS ALWAYS! What a wonderful idea! I have another video coming which I think is much better than my first one, and I’ll switch them out when the time comes. But, the great thing is that IT WORKS WONDERFULLY!!!!
THANKS & SMILES….Nancy
www.ladybugwreaths.com
Hi Jim, thanks for a great video!I have seen a similar method before and I’ve been a bit apprehensive about using it.I wondered whether or not it violated ebay’s policies but now you have cleared that up,I shall start using the method you have outlined straight away!
Thanks again Jim,
Colin
Colm Butterley’s Search Domination Challenge
wonderful video!i have yet to sell any iteam or even buy one.I am looking to gain any information that I can,free or low cost to help me in the near future.Your video and news letters are a great tool for new comers like me.I would love nothing more than to learn all I can about Ebay yhanks again,Yvonne
Hi Jim!
Just wanted to thankyou for all the info
you send me. I want you to know that I
bought your three books,ssm,auction traffic and how to turn auction traffic into cash.
Again, I thankyou, today I have joined
DSW, I have signed up for the eCourse.
Keep up the good work Jim!
Hi Jim,
I like your idea about using the video and the About Me page to get traffic. It’s very clever.
I plan to try it to promote my new site at
http://wwww.karmaofsuccess.com
Keep up the good work!
Hello Jim,
How very clever you are and I will definitely try your idea out. Thanks to for the “great” information in your Silent Sales Machine.
Bless you for sharing this knowledge with all of us newbie’s…
http://achoicemade.com
Hi Jim,
Man that was awesome information.I have bought all your 3 books the combo pack as well as 1 year membership to MST,did you notice something man you got instant product.I mean a product just on how to videos.In fact this video answered all my previous questions posted on MST forum,such as screen capture as well as other questions.
Keep up the good work…….would like to see a video on traffic geyser
http://www.basket-weaving-secrets.com
Hi Jim,
Great video, I will definately be using this info,
Keith
Hi Jim:
My first visit to your blog, and glad I stopped by! Very cool idea…I’m going to give it a go first thing tomorrow.
Thanks for the tip.
John (TheGoodRead)
Jim
Great video. Will put it into practice. thankyou
Jim,
I am surprised that with all the money you have made you are not livimg permanently on some sun-blessed island lazing the days away. But I am damn glad you are not - another excellent video, the ideas in which I intend to use soon.
Many thanks
Michael (ebay ID abbs753)
These videos you made are great!!!!!
KEEP IT UP MAN!!!!
THANKS!!!!!!!
Thanks for bringing attention to this tip again. It seems especially relevant what with recent eBay rule changes.
One question about this strategy, though? Does the video on your About Me page need to be specifically relevant to the product in your auction or can it be more generic?
Great video, thanks Jim. Last year I saw the power of video when I auctioned a camera and got well above the average price for it. This video takes things to the next level, and I’ll be putting it into practice real soon. By the way, do you have the code somewhere that I can copy and paste it from,
Thanks for all your help, Ffion
Interesting concept. I have to admit that I don’t use E-Bay a great deal myself currently, but I like keeping up with what you are doing because of the innovative concepts you put out like this one.
The question I ask myself is how can I use this information to supercharge my website. I’ve actually come up with several ideas, like using video images to redirect people to different parts of my website that I want them to explore further.
I do however have a question. In many of my hyperlinks I use the “title” attribute that most other people seem to ignore for one reason or another. It looks like…
href=” ViralMarketing4U.com ” title=”Where making a living on the net makes sense”>
That 2nd part that follows “title” can be valuable if you include your desired keywords within the title. Do you happen to know if E-Bay allows it’s users to include such an attribute in their links? If so, this would be an excellent addition to the concept you presented in this video.
Jim,
I do love that Idea. The bottom line is how many customers we can get and retain to our websites. Then keep their information for future sales.
Dane Laster
I’m a new year-long member (at Skip McGrath’s suggestion). I love all of the information, though struggling to find the time to read everything and get listings out.
This video idea is great. I hope eBay leaves the About Me page alone.
Now I just have to figure out how to create the video. I know it’s the way to go!
Thanks, Jim.
Hi Jim, I have bought your book, Silent Sales Machine and its on my desk as a reference guide. Once again, you have given us more useful ideas without promising the “BS” and will certainly use this idea. Thanks again, and like some others say, “Keep up the good work”
Tony.
Hi Jim!
I’m a big fan of yours–bought your SilentSalesMachine e-book and am currently a SilentSalesTeam member.
Great video! I personally use Jing (yes folks, it’s free) to capture images online and make basic videos from what’s on my screen. By using Jing, it should take away from having to use Paint to crop because you crop your picture directly on the website you’re on and save the picture there.
However, I’m wondering if I could just put the video directly on my auction with a clickable link that I either add through LinkedTube or Quick Video Optin. I don’t know if eBay accepts links coming from these two sites because I haven’t tried it yet. However, if they do, then that would allow a video being displayed on the actual auction page with a clickable link to the About Me page.
Why would you want to do it this way? First, the video can be watched on the auction page so when the link is clicked on within the video, the visitor has already watched the video and will have their attention directed to whatever else is on the About Me page. And second, a different video can be used (if desired) for each auction. Just a thought. Again, I don’t know if eBay allows anything but YouTube videos in their auctions, I’d have to check it out.
Thanks again!
Melissa
Earnin’ The Dough For My Cup O’ Joe!”
[reply from Jim]: Creative idea! Here’s a link to the list of video hosting sites that eBay allows: http://pages.ebay.com/help/policies/listing-links.html (for a list look under the “some examples” tab)
I love it, Jim. I don’t know how to copy a video to my “About Me” page yet but I’m working on it.
Hi Jim,
Thanks for the great video. What a fantastic idea for getting people to your “About Me” page.
Andrea