How to write product descriptions that sell
Jan 8, 2025
Unlocking the Power of Product Descriptions
Writing product descriptions might seem simple, but crafting ones that actually drive sales is both a skill and a process. For new resellers, getting this right is a game-changer: clear, compelling descriptions help products stand out in crowded marketplaces, build trust, and ultimately convert browsers into buyers. Below is a beginner-friendly, step-by-step guide to writing product descriptions that sell—plus how to manage your listings, track sales, and handle the logistics with less stress.
1. Know Your Buyer (and Their Questions)
Before you write a word, put yourself in your ideal customer’s shoes. Ask yourself:
What is this product used for?
What problem does it solve?
What concerns or questions might a buyer have?
What makes this item different from similar listings?
Taking a moment to jot these down will help you target your description to the people most likely to click “buy.”
2. Focus on Benefits, Not Just Features
Features are facts: dimensions, materials, color, brand, etc. Benefits are what the buyer gets: comfort, convenience, better organization, peace of mind. Both are important, but benefits sell.
Example:
Instead of: “Solid wood, 6-drawer dresser.”
Try: “Keep your bedroom tidy with this sturdy, real wood dresser—six smooth-gliding drawers make organizing a breeze.”
3. Keep It Clear and Skimmable
Most shoppers skim. Use short sentences, bullet points, and formatting like bold text for highlights. Avoid jargon unless it’s common in your niche (e.g., “NWT” for new with tags in fashion).
Quick template:
What is it? (short intro line)
Who is it for?
Main features and benefits (bullets work well!)
Any important details? (size, color, compatibility, condition, etc.)
How will it be shipped/picked up?
4. Use Simple, Positive Language
Write like you’re talking to a friend. Avoid negative phrases ("not bad") and instead use positive alternatives ("excellent condition"). Double-check for spelling and grammar—a typo can make buyers unsure about your trustworthiness.
5. Add a Call to Action
Close with a friendly nudge. Examples:
“Ready to ship today—grab it before it’s gone!”
“Message with questions or to bundle and save.”
6. Keep Listings and Inventory in Sync (Save Hours!)
Once your descriptions are polished, it’s tempting to post everywhere—eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Poshmark, etc. But managing listings across multiple sites can get messy fast: you risk double-selling, inconsistent info, and wasted time.
Beginner-friendly inventory systems like Gavelbase help you keep product info, images, and quantities synced across all your selling channels. You can update a description once and push changes everywhere—no more copy-paste errors or overselling disasters. Many resellers start with simple spreadsheets, but a central tool makes scaling up much easier when you’re ready.
7. Assign Basic Team Roles (Even if You’re Solo... For Now)
If you have a partner, friend, or family member helping, assign clear roles:
Lister: Writes descriptions, posts items
Shipper: Handles packaging and shipping or local pickups
Inventory Manager: Tracks what’s sold and what needs restocking
Customer Service: Answers buyer questions, manages returns
If you’re solo, block out time for each hat you’ll wear. This helps prevent missed messages or shipping delays.
8. Track Sales and Fees (Don’t Get Surprised!)
Each marketplace charges different fees and may have its own payout schedule. Use a simple spreadsheet or an inventory tool (like Gavelbase) to log:
Sale price
Marketplace fee
Shipping cost
Net profit
This lets you see at a glance what’s working and avoid underpricing.
9. Handle Shipping and Pickup Like a Pro
For each listing, clearly state:
How the item will be shipped (carrier, speed, tracking)
Shipping cost (free, flat-rate, or calculated)
Local pickup instructions (safe location, available times)
Send prompt, friendly messages after each sale—buyers love fast, clear communication.
10. Review, Refine, Repeat
Pay attention to which descriptions drive the most sales or questions. Update old listings with what you learn. The more you tweak, the better you’ll get.
Sample Product Description (Put It All Together!)
Cozy Oversized Knit Blanket – Cream
Perfect for chilly nights on the couch or adding a touch of comfort to your dorm.
Ultra-soft, machine-washable acrylic blend
Generous 60" x 80" size covers a queen bed or sofa
Lightweight yet warm—great for all seasons
Brand new, smoke-free home
Ships next business day via USPS Priority Mail. Free local pickup in Midtown available—just message to arrange!
Snuggle up in style—order yours today!
Quick Checklist for Every Listing
✅ Clear title and main benefit
✅ Short, readable description
✅ Features and benefits
✅ Accurate condition and details
✅ Shipping or pickup info
✅ Central inventory/log updated
Resources for Going Further
Whether you’re selling part-time or building a business, investing a little extra time into your product descriptions—and organizing your back end—will help you stand out, stay sane, and sell more. Happy listing!