Indie Designer Marketing

The other day some kids outside the supermarket asked me to buy a chocolate bar. It was a charitable purchase to maintain their afterschool music program.

“Aaaw sweetie… I don’t eat chocolate,” I replied.

“That’s okay ma’am. If you want you can also contribute $1 or any extra change that you have. Every little bit helps.”

I gave this little master of persuasion $10. 

And it struck me that his technique is absolutely usable online.

He asked me to purchase a $5 chocolate bar. When that failed, he asked for spare change - a much lower contribution.

Even if the average person says no to the chocolate bar, it’s much harder to say no to pocket change.

So how does this apply to selling apparel, jewelry and accessories?

Easy. Add a section on your site for items priced lower than your traditional price range.

So if you typically sell dresses that range from $100-$300, create a “$50 and Under” section.

These may be last seasons styles, or merchandise with minor imperfections.

Either way, it’s important that you not mix these items with your regular inventory, so that you’re creating a clear sense of contrast.

Potential buyers who love your stuff may not be ready to spring for a $300 dress. But a $50 dress appears much more do-able.

You’re able to get a new buyer over that inital sales hump. Plus it inevitably opens the door to additional profits.