Online marketplaces and classifieds let you sell where attention already exists. In this Attn hack, I show how to list products or services on sites like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, OfferUp, eBay and Amazon, join the conversation in niche forums, and use a simple mug tactic that can bring local customers into a beer or liquor store.
Key Takeaways
- Marketplaces already have buyers looking, so you borrow their traffic instead of building your own first.
- Browse the categories to see what your audience is actually demanding, then fit your product to the right niche.
- Join forums where your audience hangs out and add to the conversation. Never spam.
- Pair a related product with your core offer, such as custom mugs for a beer seller, to bring people in.
Why Sell in Marketplaces and Classifieds?
The reason to go there is simple: the attention is already there. Sites like Amazon, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace and eBay have people actively looking to buy right now.
Flipping items between those marketplaces is one use. Makers are another. If you make jewelry, run a lifestyle brand or sell your own t-shirts, you can post in places like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, LetGo and OfferUp and reach a wider audience.
As an example, I recently searched for a set of items, went straight to eBay and found exactly what I needed at the price I wanted. If your offer is in front of people like that, take advantage of it.
How Do You Find the Right Category for Your Product?
Look at the categories inside each classified site and see where your product or service fits. Ask what the audience in that category is demanding.
If your product fits a specific vertical, such as music, art, fashion or sneakers, find a way to niche it to that audience.
Once you know the category, you can find the people most likely to buy and engage with them directly.
How Do Forums Help You Sell?
Online forums are places where your target audience is already talking. Join the conversation and become part of the community.
Do not go in and spam everyone. That does not work, because people do not want to be tricked into buying something.
For example, if you sell t-shirts, you can talk about new prints from brands in that culture. Over time, that participation can turn into leverage for more sales.
What Is the Beer Mug Tactic?
I show this live on OfferUp. Searching for beer brings up people selling mugs, posters, custom glasses and goblets, and each listing can carry tags and a local pickup option.
If your store sells beer, you could sell or flip custom mugs from your store. A customer comes in for the mug, tries the beer and may buy a case.
You can take it one step further: offer a free beer in the customer’s new mug when they bring it in, or include a coupon for your local beer.
It does not matter what kind of store you run. Either list your offer directly or create a related item people can buy, then build the offer around it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which marketplaces can I list on?
In the video I mention Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, LetGo, OfferUp, eBay and Amazon.
Does this work for services as well as products?
Yes. You can list products or services, as long as the category fits what the audience is searching for.
How do I use forums without being spammy?
Engage in the conversation first, talk about topics the community cares about, and avoid blasting people with sales messages.
The Short Long Of It
Go where the eyeballs already are. List your offer in the marketplaces, learn what each category demands, join the conversations in forums, and add a related item, like a custom mug, that gives people a reason to walk in.
Suggested Reading
- What Is a Brand Identity System? Complete 2026 Guide
- Small Business Branding: 9 Proven Steps to Build a Brand That Wins Customers
- How Branding Increases Sales for Your Business
Ready for a brand you’re proud to show off?
Get a custom design system built around your business.
About the Author
Additional Videos