The Mall Wins! Sharing Economy Platforms
LYNNIE VERSION
Would you like to read this article in more grown-up words, still easy to understand? Jump here.
Hi! I’m Lynnie! Today I’m explaining sharing economy platforms. In the sharing economy, WHERE you list your things matters as much as the things themselves!
Why big malls are a must
In lots of ways to earn, big online malls are helpful. But in the sharing economy, they’re usually a MUST!
They help people find you, take payments, sort out arguments, and build trust with reviews and ID checks. Your own rental website would be super complicated and expensive! So start with a big online mall.
When your own website can help
You can still add your own website or social shop, to be seen more. That’s okay for property you fully own that isn’t tied to any brand. Like an apartment or a house!
Careful with brand things!
Here’s an important limit. Owning a brand product doesn’t mean you’re allowed to pay for ads to rent or resell it! That would usually count as acting for the brand, and brands rarely allow it without saying yes first.
Big malls are different. Inside them, showing things off, boosts and even paid ads are allowed by their rules. Another reason malls are the best home here!
Some platforms
- Rooms and homes: Airbnb and similar.
- Cars: car-sharing platforms like Turo.
- Tools and equipment: Sharely or FatLlama.
- Clothes: Vinted or Vestiaire Collective.
- Furniture and other stuff: Facebook Marketplace or eBay.
It’s different in every country, so check what’s popular where you live!
A profile people trust
Show you’re reliable, good at what you do, and friendly. These things help a lot:
Your picture
Use a clear, nice picture. It doesn’t have to be your face. But on sharing platforms, people trust faces more, especially since they might meet you!
Your bio
A short, fun bio about what you offer, and why your things are well cared for.
Photos and descriptions
Clear, sharp photos. Honest info about condition, size and extras.
A little extra help
Mention extra help you give, like instructions for first-timers. That builds trust!
Picking a platform
Compare fees, how popular it is nearby, insurance, and how fast you get paid. Ask friends what they use!
Start with one, and learn it well. Add another only when the first runs smoothly.
Your profile grows
Every good review makes your profile stronger! Keep it updated, and the platform shows you more often.
Three oopsies
- An empty profile with no bio. People don’t like renting from a mystery!
- Lots of platforms with weak listings, instead of one great one.
- Running your own ads for brand things you resell. That can break brand rules!
A story
A bike lover rents out two road bikes. Her profile has a friendly photo, a short bio about her years of cycling, and clear photos of each bike. She says she adjusts the seat at handover, and includes a repair kit.
Her first renters write super happy reviews about how helpful she is. And more bookings roll in! Ding ding!
What’s next?
The next article shows the setup you need. Only two things! The whole module is in the book on our products page. Want a grown-up to help you choose? Go to our services page.
What grown-ups usually ask (and I answer)
Should I take payments outside the platform?
No! You lose its protection, and it might break the rules.
Why are malls a must?
They find people, take payments, solve problems and build trust.
Can I use my own website for rentals?
For property you fully own, it can help. For most things, malls are better.
Can I advertise brand things I resell?
Usually not on your own.
Should I show my face?
Not required, but faces build trust.
What should my profile have?
A clear picture, a short bio, great photos and extra help.
How do I build trust as a beginner?
Fill out your profile, check your ID, be honest and answer fast.
Will there be step-by-step lessons for each of the ten ways?
Maybe! If lots of people want them. Join the waitlist and you’ll know first.
Can I start for free or almost free?
Lynnaider shows you ways that cost nothing, or very little. You’d be surprised! And a free robot helper called Lynnaider Compass helps you step by step.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and should not be regarded as legal, tax, or business advice. Pursuing an online business does not guarantee income; results depend on many factors including the business environment, individual effort, skills, and consistency. Some links on this site may allow Lynnaider to earn a commission at no additional cost to the reader.
