What are the 7 steps of selling?

The 7 steps of selling are: 1) Prospecting (finding potential buyers), 2) Preparation (research and planning), 3) Approach (initial contact), 4) Presentation (showing your product), 5) Handling objections (addressing concerns), 6) Closing (finalizing the sale), and 7) Follow-up (maintaining the relationship).

The 7 Steps of Selling Online in Nigeria

Master the complete sales process used by successful Nigerian online sellers. From finding buyers to building repeat customers.

Prospecting

Finding Your Buyers

Online: Share your Selify listings on WhatsApp Status, Facebook groups, and Instagram Stories. Target groups where your ideal customers hang out—tech groups for gadgets, fashion communities for clothing.

Pro tip: Post at strategic times—morning (7-9AM) when people check phones, and evening (6-8PM) when they're relaxing.

Preparation

Research & Planning

Know your product inside out. Research market prices on Selify and Jiji to price competitively. Prepare answers to common questions: "Is it original?" "What's the condition?" "Can I see more photos?"

Have ready: Clear photos from multiple angles, honest description, your best price, and delivery options.

Approach

Making First Contact

When buyers message you, respond fast (within 15 minutes). Be friendly but professional. "Hi [Name], thanks for your interest in the [product]. It's available and I can answer any questions you have."

Avoid: Overly pushy sales language. Let the product and your responsiveness build trust.

Presentation

Showcasing Your Product

Send additional photos if requested. Highlight key features and benefits. "This power bank charges 3 devices simultaneously—perfect for your office and travel needs." Focus on how it solves their problem.

Use video: A 15-second video showing the item working builds more trust than 10 photos.

Handling Objections

Addressing Concerns

Common objections: "Price is too high," "I'm not sure it's original," "What if it's not as described?" Stay calm. Offer proof (receipts, warranty), suggest a video call inspection, or provide a small discount for quick payment.

Key phrase: "I understand your concern. Here's what I can do to make you comfortable..."

Closing

Sealing the Deal

Create urgency without pressure. "If you can pay before 4PM today, I can include delivery to your area." Make payment easy—share your account details clearly and confirm receipt before proceeding.

Always: Confirm payment in your bank app (not just SMS alerts) before releasing items.

Follow-Up

Building Long-Term Value

After delivery, message to confirm satisfaction. "Hope the item arrived safely! Let me know if you need anything else." This builds reviews, referrals, and repeat customers—the holy grail of online selling.

Golden rule: It's 5x easier to sell to an existing customer than find a new one. Nurture your buyer relationships.

The 7 Steps at a Glance

1. Prospecting

Find buyers

2. Preparation

Research

3. Approach

First contact

4. Presentation

Show product

5. Objections

Address concerns

6. Closing

Seal the deal

7. Follow-Up

Build relationships

Ready to apply the 7 steps?

Practice makes perfect. Start with your next listing and work through each step.

Create a Listing Beginner's Guide