Jul
14
A recent post in the eBay Chatter Blog discussed some of the factors that influence and auction listing’s placement in the Best Match search results. Some of them have not been officially or unofficially confirmed before. Since one of my goals for this blog is to be the single best source for Best Match information, I thought I would mention them. Of course, this information will be included in the next version of my free Best Match eBook.
A couple of variables that influence Demand Factors include:
- Picking the right category for your item
- Using Item Specifics
- Item Specifics is a relatively new feature. According to eBay:
Sellers can add value to their listings by adding Item Specifics to their listings.
- Item Specifics are determined by the category in which you sell your item. For example, the Item Specifics available in an apparel category would be related to size and style, while Item Specifics in a CD music category could refer to genre and condition. Item Specifics are also determined by additional characteristics that buyers would use to find an item in that category and related categories (for example, Antique Rugs or Rugs in Home & Garden).
- Item Specifics you provide are displayed at the top of your item description and are used by buyers to search for items.
- In most categories supporting Item Specifics, this information is optional. However, it is definitely to your benefit to complete as many of the details as are applicable.
Some factors that can influence Listing Factors include:
- Format (fixed vs. auction)
- Geographical distance from the buyer
- Having a return policy on the item
Interestingly, the post specifically mentions:
Having a return policy is good for raising item visibility in Best Match.
Therefore, its important to to specify your return policy on the Sell Your Item form when creating your listing. If you have a return policy, but only provide details in your item’s description, the Best Match algorithm isn’t going to give you credit for it when it determines the search results sort order.
How to specify your return policy
In the Additional Information section of the Sell Your Item form, take the following steps:
- Select the “Returns accepted” check box.
- Select the time limit within which the buyer must return the item to you.
- Select the type of refund you will give if the item is returned.
- Enter all other details about your return policy in the Return Policy Details text box.
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