Wow! 40% would depress me dreadfully! I sell antiques and collectables, and regularly achieve 95% successful sales. How do I do that?
Trust – people can read my feedback.
Honesty – I mention and photograph every fault [if there is one] so people know exactly what they are getting.
Hard work – I research and properly describe everything I sell.
Fair postage – I do not make a profit on postage.
Low start price – 99p and no reserve. If it is worth £100 it won't sell for much less.
Timing – a 10 day listing, starting on Thursday evening and ending Sunday evening, giving two weekends to gain maximum exposure with both trade and private buyers.
Photographs – I never take just one when 8 or 10 or 16 would better, and always in focus.
Last but not least – I use Auctiva, a wonderful tool that has made my life so much easier, and managed to improve my sales by 10% from the day I signed up for it. Thanks Auctiva..!