My Journey as an Amazon Seller: Evolution Beyond a Marketplace
In January 2025, I’ve reflected deeply on my journey as an Amazon seller, a path that began in 2016 and has continually transformed over the years. My experience is not just a story of selling products; it has evolved into a broader understanding of e-commerce and brand building across multiple platforms.
My foray into selling on Amazon was not planned. Working as a copywriter for an online coaching company that taught others about selling on Amazon, I initially lacked proper knowledge about the marketplace. It was only after immersing myself in the company’s training that I discovered the potential of selling on Amazon. The moment I successfully launched my first product, a microwave wall bracket, was monumental. To this day, it continues to sell consistently, a testament to the value of thorough research and product selection.
Once the initial success came, I began diversifying my product offerings under a brand name that I initially didn’t prioritize. Over the years, I expanded into various niches within the home, kitchen, and outdoor categories, each offering firsthand lessons on what works and what doesn't. Success didn’t come without failures; some products flopped due to my miscalculations. These setbacks ultimately taught me valuable lessons and shaped my approach to e-commerce.
As I continued on this journey, I realized that I had outgrown simply identifying as an Amazon seller. While the platform offers a massive customer base and simplicity, I've come to appreciate that it shouldn’t be the sole focus. In the last couple of years, my business partner Peter and I have pivoted toward building a legitimate brand.
This transition involved focusing on creating distinct products that resonate with a target audience, as opposed to merely chasing quick profits from random products. Building a brand not only enhances customer equity but increases the value of our business for potential future exits. Therein lies the true success of an online business: the ability to scale sustainably and build a reputable brand rather than follow fleeting trends.
In an age where e-commerce is experiencing incredible growth, focusing solely on Amazon can be limiting. While it remains a significant platform, the competitive landscape necessitates a broader vision. I encourage aspiring sellers to explore selling on other platforms like Shopify and eBay, as well as leveraging social media to drive traffic to their products. A multi-platform approach brings resilience and diversification that simply isn't available when relying only on one marketplace.
My journey hasn’t been without its challenges. One of the primary concerns when selling on Amazon is the lack of control over various essential variables. The platform maintains ownership over customer data, making it difficult to conduct follow-ups or nurture relationships. Unlike traditional email lists—an asset I wholeheartedly endorse—Amazon sellers struggle to build direct connections with their customers.
Building an email list is paramount, providing a direct line to communicate and engage with your customers away from the constraints of a marketplace. This allows for a more personalized marketing strategy where you can continuously nurture relationships and promote future products.
Another aspect of selling on Amazon is the associated fees. While some may view these fees as burdensome, I’ve come to value the trust that Amazon has built over the years with its customers. Many consumers instinctively trust Amazon for reliability, speedy delivery, and simple return processes. By utilizing Amazon’s fulfillment services, you align your brand with that trust, enhancing customer confidence in your products.
My guiding principle is always putting the customer first—prioritizing their needs above everything else. Doing so not only positions your brand well in the marketplace but also leads to better long-term success.
Building a brand is not a sprint; it’s a marathon. Expecting rapid success can lead to disappointment and disillusionment with e-commerce. I remind myself and any audience I encounter that the key to success is understanding that entrepreneurship, especially in brand building, requires patience and persistence. Being passionate about the journey and maintaining a long-term perspective are crucial components of sustainable growth.
As I stand here today, I no longer see myself merely as an Amazon seller but as a brand builder dedicated to helping others navigate this journey. If you’re eager to embark on your own brand-building adventure and build a solid foundation for long-term success, I invite you to connect with us. We’re eager to walk alongside you as you forge your path in e-commerce.
Feel free to leave comments or questions about my journey, and I’m excited to share how others can thrive in the ever-evolving world of online business. Here’s to embracing the future of e-commerce, grounded in principles of trust, customer-centricity, and long-term vision!
Part 1/9:
My Journey as an Amazon Seller: Evolution Beyond a Marketplace
In January 2025, I’ve reflected deeply on my journey as an Amazon seller, a path that began in 2016 and has continually transformed over the years. My experience is not just a story of selling products; it has evolved into a broader understanding of e-commerce and brand building across multiple platforms.
The Beginning: An Unexpected Introduction
Part 2/9:
My foray into selling on Amazon was not planned. Working as a copywriter for an online coaching company that taught others about selling on Amazon, I initially lacked proper knowledge about the marketplace. It was only after immersing myself in the company’s training that I discovered the potential of selling on Amazon. The moment I successfully launched my first product, a microwave wall bracket, was monumental. To this day, it continues to sell consistently, a testament to the value of thorough research and product selection.
Discovering the Marketplace Potential
Part 3/9:
Once the initial success came, I began diversifying my product offerings under a brand name that I initially didn’t prioritize. Over the years, I expanded into various niches within the home, kitchen, and outdoor categories, each offering firsthand lessons on what works and what doesn't. Success didn’t come without failures; some products flopped due to my miscalculations. These setbacks ultimately taught me valuable lessons and shaped my approach to e-commerce.
More Than Just an Amazon Seller
Part 4/9:
As I continued on this journey, I realized that I had outgrown simply identifying as an Amazon seller. While the platform offers a massive customer base and simplicity, I've come to appreciate that it shouldn’t be the sole focus. In the last couple of years, my business partner Peter and I have pivoted toward building a legitimate brand.
This transition involved focusing on creating distinct products that resonate with a target audience, as opposed to merely chasing quick profits from random products. Building a brand not only enhances customer equity but increases the value of our business for potential future exits. Therein lies the true success of an online business: the ability to scale sustainably and build a reputable brand rather than follow fleeting trends.
Part 5/9:
The Importance of Multi-Platform Selling
In an age where e-commerce is experiencing incredible growth, focusing solely on Amazon can be limiting. While it remains a significant platform, the competitive landscape necessitates a broader vision. I encourage aspiring sellers to explore selling on other platforms like Shopify and eBay, as well as leveraging social media to drive traffic to their products. A multi-platform approach brings resilience and diversification that simply isn't available when relying only on one marketplace.
Challenges and Strategic Insights
Part 6/9:
My journey hasn’t been without its challenges. One of the primary concerns when selling on Amazon is the lack of control over various essential variables. The platform maintains ownership over customer data, making it difficult to conduct follow-ups or nurture relationships. Unlike traditional email lists—an asset I wholeheartedly endorse—Amazon sellers struggle to build direct connections with their customers.
Building an email list is paramount, providing a direct line to communicate and engage with your customers away from the constraints of a marketplace. This allows for a more personalized marketing strategy where you can continuously nurture relationships and promote future products.
Balancing Costs and Customer Trust
Part 7/9:
Another aspect of selling on Amazon is the associated fees. While some may view these fees as burdensome, I’ve come to value the trust that Amazon has built over the years with its customers. Many consumers instinctively trust Amazon for reliability, speedy delivery, and simple return processes. By utilizing Amazon’s fulfillment services, you align your brand with that trust, enhancing customer confidence in your products.
My guiding principle is always putting the customer first—prioritizing their needs above everything else. Doing so not only positions your brand well in the marketplace but also leads to better long-term success.
A Long-Term Vision
Part 8/9:
Building a brand is not a sprint; it’s a marathon. Expecting rapid success can lead to disappointment and disillusionment with e-commerce. I remind myself and any audience I encounter that the key to success is understanding that entrepreneurship, especially in brand building, requires patience and persistence. Being passionate about the journey and maintaining a long-term perspective are crucial components of sustainable growth.
Conclusion: Embracing the Brand Builder Identity
Part 9/9:
As I stand here today, I no longer see myself merely as an Amazon seller but as a brand builder dedicated to helping others navigate this journey. If you’re eager to embark on your own brand-building adventure and build a solid foundation for long-term success, I invite you to connect with us. We’re eager to walk alongside you as you forge your path in e-commerce.
Feel free to leave comments or questions about my journey, and I’m excited to share how others can thrive in the ever-evolving world of online business. Here’s to embracing the future of e-commerce, grounded in principles of trust, customer-centricity, and long-term vision!