No need to battle the weather, traffic and harried holiday shoppers at the mall this year. As others go from store to store only to find the same merchandise everywhere, you can relax in the comfort of your home, or office, and browse eBay
for special gifts.
Be Creative
Don't settle for another tie for Dad, or an apron for mother.
Family and friends are special, and the holidays are the time to express how much you care. Take the time to reflect on what they like -- in their homes, apparel, hobbies, work, etc. Ask yourself questions. What are their likes, their passions? Was there something memorable in their childhood that they often talk about? Do they have a pet? Where did they grow up, go to school or attend college? Do they travel? What is their favorite vacation spot? Define each person's personality and interests, listing appropriate keywords (ie: golf, Hawaii, race cars, cat) -- it makes finding that one special, unique, perfectly targeted gift much easier.
Hunting at eBay
Once you've defined the people on your list, begin searching for gifts at eBay.
Use the eBay Title Search (Smart Search) feature to search for specific items using the keywords you've listed.
Scan eBay categories to trigger gift ideas. Think of it as a random walk through the world's largest selection of merchandise.
Then, once you find an interesting item...
Read the Item Description carefully. Does the seller:
Completely describe the item by type, size, condition, etc?
Ship to your location?
Offer reasonable return and refund policies?
If you have questions:
Ask the seller -- use the link on the listing page to send the seller an email
Research item prices, models, etc., both off and online, to learn more about the item and determine the fair value. A smart shopper is a happy shopper.
Check out the seller before bidding!
Check the numbers on a seller's feedback and feedback ID card. Make sure feedback comments are overwhelmingly positive.
Read through the seller's actual feedback comments to read what other buyers have said about their experience with the seller.
Look for sellers who accept credit cards or electronic checks via an online payment service (like eBay Payments or PayPal.)
Online payment services let you pay with a credit card or electronic check.
Once you have set up an account with an online payment service, you can pay for an item in a matter of minutes. The faster you pay, the quicker you receive your gift.
Look for Sellers who offer Special Holiday Services
During the Holidays, many sellers offer eBay's new "Gift Services" program, which includes one or more of the following services: gift-wrapping, gift cards, express shipping and special delivery to your gift recipient -- which can save you time and money. If you are unsure whether a seller provides these conveniences, ask before you bid -- and look for the Gift Icon, designating the services are available to you, the buyer.
Once you've won the item, pay quickly!
The faster you pay, the quicker the seller will ship your item.
Holiday giving also means giving feedback to sellers.
Spread the Good Cheer! Let the rest of the eBay community know about your Holiday trading experience with the seller by leaving them a praising positive Feedback comment.
Although this is an important duty to remember during the year, it is most important during the Holiday season. What better 'gift' to give your eBay seller than a kind word. eBay sellers treasure their feedback -- and buyers rely on it to make decisions.
By following the above steps you can easily complete your holiday shopping, for everyone on your list, and have more time to enjoy holiday festivities. Next year, start early. Remember, eBay is the best place to look for the perfect gift all year round! When you're browsing eBay throughout the year, keep your list of holiday gift recipients nearby. Should you find an item that would make a perfect gift for someone on your list, buy it now and put it away till the Holidays. You'll be glad you did!
