A 27-year-old has sold over $4 million worth of sneakers in 2024 by shifting to 'live selling.' She explains how it works and why every store owner should learn the skill.
Briefly

When she transitioned to live selling, everything changed for Val Zapata. She noted the format allowed for direct interaction with customers and showcased the sneakers in a dynamic way, which significantly increased her sales and reach. 'Having that live connection to buyers has been transformative, it creates a sense of urgency and excitement that simply listing shoes online never could.' This shift helped her tap into a broader audience.
Zapata highlighted the importance of honing live-selling skills, noting that it's not just about showcasing products, but building a community. 'People want to feel connected to you as a seller,' she explained. 'Making it personal, showing authenticity, and engaging with viewers really set successful sellers apart. It’s a completely different skill set compared to just e-commerce.''
Reflecting on her journey, Val mentioned the balance between fun and business. 'It started as a passion project, something fun and creative during a tough time, but it quickly evolved into something much more serious and fulfilling. Now, I can’t imagine doing anything else.' This evolution underscores the potential for hobbies to become thriving businesses.
Looking ahead, Zapata predicts a live-selling boom in the US, urging budding entrepreneurs to embrace this trend. 'The live-selling space is just in its infancy here, but the engagement it drives is incredible. I suggest anyone interested in selling, especially online, to hone their skills in live selling – it’s where the future of retail is heading.'
Read at Business Insider
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