The term “side hustle” came into widespread use in the 1950s. Times were tough, and as jobs became increasingly scarce, pumping gas, mowing yards and taking in laundry became a way to keep the family fed.
Fast forward to 2010 and you will find millions of people subsidizing their 9-5 job through e-commerce, social media and YouTube. In fact, a growing number of people have worked their side hustle so effectively that it has replaced their straight job!
Reporting for work at a set time, in a set place, often to do the same task day after day is fast becoming a thing of the past. The side hustle has altered the paradigm of how we perceive the workaday world. There are those who will insist that this is an after-effect of the “shelter in place” period of the pandemic. However, truth is, this concept of work was in place long before COVID struck.
This column is the first in a three part series in which we will take a look at three highly successful avenues for selling your vintage and antique items online, eBay, Etsy and Facebook Marketplace.
eBay was founded in 1995 by Pierre Omidyar and had grown into a million dollar a year business by early 1996. The California-based company makes it possible for you to sell individual items, full collections or to set up an online shop.
Getting started is simple. 1. Fill out the online registration form to set up an account. 2. Choose a user ID and password. 3. Verify your identity by providing a debit or credit card. 4. Set up a method for paying your seller’s fees. 5. Select the forms of payments that you will accept.
If you do not currently have a PayPal account, you will need to establish one.
Once you are a registered user you can begin to sell your items. Clear pictures and detailed descriptions are a must for successful sales. Include measurements, full disclosure on any wear or damage and be cautious of shipping costs. While garden iron is a current hot seller in the world of antiques, it is not uncommon for the shipping costs to exceed the value of the item.
So, what should you sell? Vintage jewelry, linens, postcards, fabric and sewing notions, vintage clothing, shoes and handbags, records and books are just a few of the possibilities.
Next time we’ll take a look at the amazing world of Etsy. Until next time . . . Linda
Linda Kennett is a professional liquidation consultant specializing in down-sizing for seniors and the liquidation of estates.