So I just answered this question on reddit. I thought it was important enough to leverage the question and response here on SAS. Since we all see it so often.
I’m in the process of starting up my FBA business and I thought I was basically set on my product (headphones) but I heard that selling electronics are a no-go and isn’t advised. I’ve put in a good amount of time into researching these products and I came to the conclusion that they were profitable and safe but now I’m not sure. What should I do?
My response;
To be clear, FBA is not a business. What you do is a business.
As it relates to headphones, I am reasonably sure you do not make them. If you get them from an offshore website in the Asian Basin, think hard about that business model.
Now to the positive stuff!
Always find something you are interested in. Turn that avocation into a vocation. This is the best path to take. Be sure you do not take my opinion or any man or woman on the street (or online) as the final solution. You must do all the research and determine what is best for you and your family.
Avoid the Private Label so called “Gold Rush” those days are over. Yes you can find a widget in a far off land on a website. And you can slap your made up brand on it. However, when you launch don’t be surprised to see many, dozens or even hundreds of the same widgets on Amazon and other eCommerce channels.
Amazon is full of dreams, riches that turn into rags. There is no magic flying carpet that will take you on the journey and it must be in your heart.
Study! Then study some more. Look to books, podcasts, reddit, forums, and even Amazon to learn.
We started our business in 1989, we studied and researched from 1987 and even wrote a chapter in a book on it before we opened.
One book we read, over and over was “In Business For Yourself” the author passed away a few years ago, but the lesson is still valid. I handed this book to many people that came to me for advise. Most handed it back and said, “To much work, not for me!”
The seasoned sellers started a forum “Sellers Ask Sellers” look for things like that. Including the Amazon NSFE (New Seller Forum Experience) this and other reddit related forums.
Again, gather the data but make your own conclusions.
And also again, find something that is in your heart, no one can beat you at that. Take it, make it and prosper.
Peace and Godspeed in your mission.