EP#77 Mastering Amazon Selling with Lesley Hensell: Key Strategies and Insights
Lesley Hensell
“What we do is help people who have challenges on Amazon, including huge sellers who sell a billion dollars a year on the platform."
Welcome to another enlightening episode of our podcast! In EP#77, we have the pleasure of chatting with Lesley Hensell, Amazon selling expert and co-founder of Riverbend Consulting. Lesley brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in the e-commerce world, and her journey from supporting her son’s education to building a thriving business is nothing short of inspiring. Whether you’re considering Amazon selling as a side hustle or a full-time venture, this episode is packed with valuable tips and insights to help you succeed.
Lesley Hensell’s E-Commerce Journey
Lesley’s foray into e-commerce began with a simple yet profound goal: to support her son’s education. This humble beginning evolved into a successful business, demonstrating the potential of Amazon selling as a viable income source. Today, Lesley co-leads Riverbend Consulting, where she helps other Amazon sellers navigate the complexities of the platform and overcome challenges such as account suspensions and inventory issues.
Setting Up Your Amazon Seller Account
The foundation of a successful Amazon business starts with setting up your seller account. Lesley emphasizes the importance of treating your Amazon venture like a traditional business. This involves:
Forming an LLC: Establishing a legal entity to protect your personal assets.
Opening a Business Bank Account: Keeping your business finances separate from personal accounts.
Verifying Your Identity: Ensuring all your documentation is in order to meet Amazon’s requirements.
Sourcing Inventory and Finding Niche Products
Finding the right products to sell on Amazon can be a game-changer. Lesley shares her strategies for sourcing inventory, including the importance of finding niche products and establishing exclusive selling rights with brands. By securing these rights, you can reduce competition and increase your chances of long-term success on the platform.
Mastering SEO and Amazon’s Algorithm
Visibility is crucial on Amazon, and understanding SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and Amazon’s algorithm is key to boosting your product rankings. Here are some of Lesley’s top tips:
Optimize Product Listings: Use relevant keywords and long-tail keywords to improve search rankings.
Utilize Videos: Adding videos to your product pages can grab attention and enhance visibility.
Keep Detailed Documentation: Maintain organized invoices and proof of authenticity for your products to avoid issues with Amazon.
Consistency in Sourcing Winning Products
Finding winning products and maintaining a steady supply can be challenging. Lesley suggests focusing on replenishable products that can provide a consistent income. This approach reduces the pressure of constantly finding new products and helps establish a reliable revenue stream.
Developing Your Brand
Building a strong brand presence is essential for long-term success. Lesley advises sellers to create a website and maintain an active social media presence. This not only enhances visibility but also helps in building customer trust and loyalty.
The Rise of TikTok Shops
While Amazon remains a dominant player in e-commerce, Lesley highlights the rising competition from platforms like TikTok Shops, especially in the clothing category. Keeping an eye on emerging platforms can provide additional opportunities for growth and diversification.
Taking Action and Seeking Support
Lesley’s parting advice is simple yet powerful: take action and don’t wait to start your Amazon business. Additionally, joining Facebook groups and seeking advice from experienced sellers can provide valuable insights and support as you navigate your e-commerce journey.
Conclusion
Whether you’re just starting or looking to enhance your existing Amazon business, EP#77 with Lesley Hensell offers a treasure trove of information and inspiration. From setting up your account and sourcing inventory to mastering SEO and developing your brand, these strategies can help you achieve e-commerce success. Tune in to the episode to dive deeper into Lesley’s expert advice and start your journey to mastering Amazon selling today!
Ready to boost your Amazon sales? Listen to the full episode here and join our community for more tips and insights. Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast for the latest updates on e-commerce trends and strategies!
