Whatnot is a live-streaming marketplace where anyone can sell collectables, including Pokemon cards.
Think of it as eBay meets Twitch but with live auctions and real-time interactions.
While anyone can jump in and start selling, success comes with strategy.
This guide is your step-by-step guide to selling effectively, building a loyal audience, and turning your Pokemon card passion into profit.
Add your own twist as you go, but these tips will get you rolling toward making money while having fun along the way.
1. Sign up for Whatnot
Getting started on Whatnot is straightforward, but don’t rush through this part. When signing up, ensure your profile stands out. Choose a username that represents your Poke business or hobby— as an example, we wouldn’t be calling our pizza joint a ‘Food Place’!
Also, upload a clear logo or profile picture. This is your first impression, so make it count.
Do:
- Fill out your profile completely with a short but engaging bio that explains what you sell.
- Link your social media accounts to show credibility.
Don’t:
- Don’t pick a generic username that doesn’t hint at what you sell.
- Avoid skipping verification steps, as this may delay your ability to go live (we’ll explain ‘going live’ later).
2. Source your Pokemon cards
Now that you’re signed up, you need inventory. Sourcing Pokemon cards can be tricky, but it’s the cornerstone of your business. Start small with collections you might already have or cards you can buy locally. Over time, explore wholesalers or even buy bulk lots on eBay to get a mix of cards to sell individually or in bundles.
Do:
- Look for deals at local card shops, Facebook Marketplace, or Pokemon groups.
- Build relationships with reputable wholesalers for a steady supply of inventory.
Don’t:
- Don’t overpay for cards just because they look cool. Research market prices on sites like TCGPlayer to ensure you’re getting a good deal.
- Avoid sketchy sellers or wholesalers without reviews. The last thing you want are counterfeit cards in your shop.
3. Organize your inventory
Now that you have cards, it’s time to get organized. Treat your inventory like a mini Pokemon card shop, meaning, you should be using things like storage boxes, dividers and sleeves. This protects your cards and makes them easier to find during a live stream.
Do:
- Categorize your inventory by set, rarity, or type (e.g., holos, reverse holos, commons).
- Use spreadsheets or apps to track what you have in stock and their market value.
Don’t:
- Don’t shove all your cards into one box. Chaos during a live stream screams unprofessionalism.
- Avoid selling damaged cards without disclosing their condition. It’s a trust breaker.
4. Create compelling listings
Your listings are your shop windows. Make them inviting and worth sticking around! Use clear photos with good lighting to highlight your cards’ condition. Include key details like the card’s name, set, condition, and rarity. A catchy title and accurate description can make all the difference.
Do:
- Take high-quality photos with a clean background.
- Write detailed and accurate descriptions, mentioning any flaws.
Don’t:
- Don’t use blurry or dark photos; they drive buyers away.
- Avoid misleading descriptions as it’s a fast way to lose trust.
5. Set up your streaming space
Presentation matters. Create a clean, well-lit streaming area. Use a camera stand for stability and a mat to showcase your cards during streams. Make sure your background is visually appealing but not too distracting. Perhaps a cool illustration of your favourite Pokemon or character from the anime?
Do:
- Use bright, even lighting to make your cards pop on camera.
- Keep your workspace tidy and professional-looking.
Don’t:
- Don’t stream in a messy or dimly lit room—it looks unprofessional.
- Avoid cluttered backgrounds that take focus away from the cards.
6. Go live consistently
Consistency is key to building a loyal following. Schedule regular live streams and stick to your times as viewers love routine, and a reliable schedule keeps them coming back. Even if you’re just starting, treat your streams like must-see events.
Do:
- Stream at the same time on set days to build viewer habits.
- Promote your schedule on social media and in your Whatnot bio.
Don’t:
- Don’t go live at random times as you’ll struggle to grow a consistent audience.
- Avoid skipping scheduled streams without notice. It can frustrate loyal viewers.
7. Engage with your audience
Whatnot is all about building a community, not just selling. Interact with your viewers by responding to comments and creating a fun atmosphere. Engage with regulars and welcome new viewers warmly… they’re potential customers too!
Do:
- Greet viewers by name and thank them for showing up.
- Answer questions about your cards and upcoming sales.
Don’t:
- Don’t ignore comments. Even small interactions can lead to sales.
- Avoid coming across as bored or disinterested. Leave the yawns for bed time, no matter how hard you’re working.
8. Use auctions and ‘Buy It Now’ options
Auctions are exciting, but not everything needs to go under the hammer. Use the ‘Buy It Now’ option for popular items with set prices. Run auctions for rarer or more valuable cards to create bidding wars.
Do:
- Use auctions to drive excitement and competition.
- Offer ‘Buy It Now’ options for quick sales.
Don’t:
- Don’t auction everything as some items are better suited for fixed pricing.
- Avoid setting starting bids too high, it can scare off bidders.
9. Run giveaways to attract viewers
Giveaways are a proven way to boost viewership. They draw in new viewers and keep existing fans engaged but make sure you’re offering something valuable! Not so valuable you’ll lose money but certainly consider the occasional ‘top-end-of-your-budget’ item for a giveaway.
Do:
- Announce giveaways at scheduled times to keep viewers excited.
- Make entry simple (watching your stream should be enough!)
Don’t:
- Don’t give away items too frequently as it can hurt your profits.
- Avoid complicated rules that confuse potential participants.
10. Manage shipping effectively
Efficient shipping keeps customers happy and maintains your seller rating. Use bubble mailers for protection and print labels at home to speed up the process. Double-check addresses to prevent returns.
Do:
- Ship items quickly and aim for next-day shipping if possible.
- Use tracking numbers for peace of mind.
Don’t:
- Don’t skimp on packaging. Damaged cards lead to refunds and we don’t want to deal with those.
- Avoid delays. It frustrates buyers and hurts your reviews.
And there we have it! But remember, selling on Whatnot is all about finding your rhythm. Mix in your unique style with what you’ve learned from this guide, and you’ll have a solid starting point. Have fun!
