How to Use Craigslist to Grow your Business

Craigslist is a popular Web site that functions as an online bulletin board where people can post free advertisements for products, services, housing, personals and jobs. These listings reach a very wide Internet audience, as Craigslist serves over 5 billion page views per month. Because listing items is free, Craigslist offers a good opportunity for someone who wants to grow a business at little or no cost. Follow theses steps to learn how to use Craigslist to grow your business.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• Computer

Make Some Money

1. Determine whether Craigslist suits your business purposes. Craigslist is a good venue for selling goods, services and real estate within your area.

2. Do your research. Check the listings to see what people are buying and selling and at what cost.

3. Apply for an account. You need to provide your email address.

4. Select the proper section for your listing: "For Sale" for goods, "Services" for services and "Housing" for real estate.

5. Write your listing. Give it a short but descriptive title that will attract interest in what you're offering. If you're offering a bargain, highlight the price. If you're offering a rare collectible, emphasize a once-in-a-lifetime chance.

6. Add a description that provides buyers with all the important information they need to know about what you are offering. Provide photographs if you can.

7. Post your listing and wait for replies. If you are not getting many replies, you may want to edit your listing or post a better offer.

8. Be prompt in contacting those who sent replies. Respond to any questions they may have. If you both decide to arrange the sale, ask for a face-to-face meeting. This will help you to avoid a scam artist.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure your descriptions are clear and concise.
• Keep track of your account and respond quickly to those who reply.
• Do not post any personal information.