How To Make More Money On Amazon By Partnering With Other Amazon Sellers

Unlocking Amazon Success: Partnerships with Marina and Eli

Hey there! It's Vova Even here. 😊

Picture this: You're playing a team game, and you know that when everyone works together, you win faster and have more fun.

That's kind of what being an Amazon seller is like.

Now, imagine if sellers team up.

That's called a "partnership," and it can be like having a superpower in the Amazon selling world!

But, you might be thinking, Vova, how do I team up with others?

What's the game plan?

And is it like the awesome team-ups in superhero movies?

Great questions!

And I've got some amazing answers for you.

Enter stage right: Marina and Eli, two superstar Amazon sellers.

They've not only teamed up in business but have also created a YouTube channel to spill all their secrets.

We recently had a cool video chat, where we talked just like friends hanging out, sharing our best tips and stories.

In this article, I've written down our whole chat for you, like a movie script!

So, if you love reading, you're in for a treat.

And if you're more into watching, no worries – our video is embedded right below.

Ready to dive into the fantastic world of Amazon partnerships?

Grab your favorite snack, sit back, and let’s jump into my super chat with Marina and Eli! 🚀🌟🎈

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What You Will Learn In This Article

Vova: Hey everyone!

Today, we're diving into the secrets of making more bucks on Amazon and the magic that happens when Amazon sellers partner up.

I've been on this journey since 2016, but I've got two superstar guests with me today who've teamed up and absolutely nailed it! Marina, Eli, welcome to the show!

How about a quick intro before we spill some Amazon beans?

Meet My Guests: Marina And Eli

Eli: Thanks, Vova! I'd like to start.

So, funny story, I was actually the first to drop Marina an email.

We were both into Retail Arbitrage, right?

And if you've been there, you know the drill.

You hang out in Facebook groups, shoot some questions, and maybe throw in a meme or two, but that's pretty much it.

The real behind-the-scenes?

That's classified info.

Or it used to be... until Marina and I changed the game. 😉

Marina and I weren't just Facebook group buddies; we also clicked in a course we took together.

Funny enough, we were both on the hunt for a VA – a virtual assistant, for the uninitiated.

My initial email was all about this agency we were both eyeing to hire our VAs from.

But you know what struck gold for me?

Being able to chat about Amazon with Marina.

Vova: Oh, like an Amazon BFF thing?

Eli: Exactly, Vova!

You see, chatting about Amazon at home is like speaking Elvish in a muggle world. 🤷‍♀️

Nobody gets it! 

Try explaining Retail Arbitrage to your grandma or why a particular listing didn't work to your roommate.

It's exhausting.

But with Marina, it was a breeze.

I didn't need to paint the entire picture; she got it right away!

She spoke my language, and boy, was it refreshing!

Vova: Sounds like a dream, to be honest. Especially during the tough times.

Eli: You hit the nail on the head!

The Amazon journey isn't all rainbows and unicorns.

There are days it gets ugly, and it's hard to vent or share those frustrations with someone who doesn't get the landscape.

With Marina, those hiccups were easier to navigate.

We'd discuss, dissect, and then, boom!

Move on.

Shift Of Mindset

Eli: Partnership is like having a mini Amazon therapy session every time.

It really shifted my mindset, brought in all those positive vibes, and washed away the stress.

Plus, we began sharing leads and inventory finds.

It was like a treasure hunt and the gold?

Well, let’s just say our pockets started feeling heavier.

Vova: Cool! So it wasn’t just emotional bonding.

You guys were really making those coins together!

Marina: Oh, for sure!

Hi everyone, I’m Marina from sunny Florida, while Eli’s chilling (or maybe freezing) in Chicago, Illinois.

We are both partners, and it's really crazy to think that even though we're miles apart, we've become such a strong team.

The Loneliness Of Being An Online Entrepreneur

Marina: Eli's given you the scoop on how we connected, but I felt it was essential to spotlight this topic.

It's hush-hush, but here's the real tea: Entrepreneurship can be lonely.

Vova: Preach, Marina!

Marina: Thanks, Vova!

Most folks are in their nine-to-five groove, clocking out, and looking forward to weekends.

But when you're building a business, especially in the early days, it's a 24/7 gig.

Your life pretty much revolves around it.

So naturally, when you're with family and friends, you're buzzing about Amazon issues, customer quirks, and the works.

But guess what?

They don't always get the hustle, and soon, you're the “Amazon” person in the group, and your eyes start rolling.

I mean, it's my life!

What else am I supposed to chat about? 🤷‍♀️

How Did The Girls Benefit From Their Partnership

Marina: I understand that many sellers feel protective over their 'secrets'.

It's like, "Found a golden goose? Keep it hush-hush!".

The fear is real, "They'll snatch my ideas. They’ll cut into my profits!"

But let's face it, on a platform like Amazon, competition is inevitable.

Anyone with a little digging can figure out your sources, the items you’re selling, and even where you snagged them from!

Vova: So it's like a super competitive treasure hunt?

Marina: Exactly, Vova.

But here's the twist!

Partnering with someone could offer so much more value than going solo.

Beyond the business benefits, as Eli pointed out, it’s about mental health.

Entrepreneurship is lonely.

Even in a room full of people, if you're the only one riding the Amazon rollercoaster, it can weigh heavily on your mind.

Add to that the hurdles, and the steep learning curves - it's a lot for one brain to process!

Secondly, the beauty of collaboration truly shone when Eli and I started pooling our resources.

We dove into Online Arbitrage, right?

And here's a simple math lesson for you: If Eli's out there unearthing 10 product leads a day, and I'm doing the same with my ten leads, merge our efforts, and voila - we've got 20 leads!

Vova: Oh, quick math there! So it's like doubling up on opportunities?

Marina: Precisely!

Remember, in this game, inventory is king. It's a merchandise-based business.

The more you stock up, the more you can sell.

It's a straightforward formula: More buying = More selling = More profits!

We amplified this strategy when we brought in VAs - Virtual Assistants.

Again, if one VA can scout 10 leads and another does the same, combining their finds gives us a total of 20 leads to capitalize on.

The synergy was just... chef's kiss. And here’s the kicker: when we decided to integrate our software, say like, Tactical Arbitrage, the savings were enormous. This links also grants a 10 day free trial.

Think about it: one software license, split expenses, and boom, we're saving thousands annually.

Then it's the idea.

Let's say when we're brainstorming, Eli throws in one idea and I pitch in another.

Having those diverse viewpoints?

It's invaluable.

It paints a fuller picture, offering insights one might not have considered alone.

And while we've thrived as a duo, we've seen others who've formed small mastermind groups on platforms like Facebook or Telegram.

Meeting regularly, discussing challenges, sharing leads, and brainstorming solutions.

If you've got five people in such a group, and everyone chips in 10 leads?

That's 50 leads daily!

It’s like turbocharging your opportunities.

Vova: Mostly, people misunderstand that if everyone's sharing, it means everyone is essentially competing on Amazon with the same products.

Marina: That's a common misconception.

On the surface, yes, but logistics play a huge role.

Let me explain.

Based on your location, the products you ship to Amazon’s fulfillment centers could end up on different sides of the country.

For instance, when Eli used a prep center, her items typically ended up in New Hampshire - the East Coast.

My items?

They went to Oregon and mainly got shipped to California - that’s the west coast.

We're talking about opposite ends of the U.S.

And here's the twist: Amazon operates on what's known as a Regional Buy Box.

Essentially, products get shown to customers based on their proximity to a warehouse.

So, a customer in Oregon would see my product from California as it’s closer.

Amazon wouldn’t want to ship the same product from, let’s say, New York because of the added time and expense.

And if there's a customer in New York?

They'll see Eli’s product from New Hampshire, even if it's identical to mine.

So, while we might be selling the same item, the geographical dynamics ensure we aren't stepping on each other's toes.

And let's say if I'm from Florida, I ship from Florida, and most often, my products head to North Carolina.

Eli, when you ship from your location, where do your items typically go?

Eli: Given I'm in the Illinois area, most of my shipments end up in nearby warehouses, especially Joliet.

It's primarily a Midwest distribution.

Marina: Precisely.

So, one could even experiment with multiple prep centers.

I mean, I've tried it and yes, it's a lot of work, but your inventory could spread across the U.S.

So the misconception of us being direct competitors?

It's not as cut and dry as it appears.

When doing Online Arbitrage, often, you can't purchase in massive bulk due to store limitations.

So, if I'm limited to buying 10 of an item and you are too, it won’t cause any drastic price drops.

We're not flooding the market.

And it's essential to understand the buy box dynamics on Amazon.

You'd all have seen that 'Add to Cart' button on the product page, right?

That's the buy box.

The seller who's currently "winning" that buy box gets their name displayed, and they're the ones who'll make a sale if a customer clicks to purchase.

Plus, there's something called buy box rotation.

You won't always be the winner of the buy box; it rotates among sellers.

But here's a strategy: partnering up can be advantageous because both partners can maintain consistent pricing.

Instead of undercutting each other, both can agree on a price, ensuring stability.

After all, there's no way any seller can dominate the buy box 100% of the time.

That's the beauty of collaboration, Vova.

Eli and I have been working together for over a year, and the benefits have been nothing short of transformative.

We've not only boosted our revenue but by sharing expenses, we've managed to reduce costs significantly.

This strategy has accelerated our growth rate and, most crucially, multiplied our profits.

Beyond the numbers, though, the companionship and shared journey have been invaluable.

The solace of having someone to confide in, to share the highs and lows with — it makes all the difference.

It's no longer just me against the world; it's us against the challenges.

The emotional support and the shared brainstorming sessions amplify our success manifold.

My Partnership Experience

Marina: Now, I'm curious about your journey.

How has partnering shaped your Amazon business?

Vova: It's been a transformative experience for me too, Marina.

I teamed up with my business partner in 2016, and we embarked on the Amazon journey.

Interestingly, our bond started over mutual gym sessions.

We realized that beyond our shared love for fitness, we had many common aspirations — travel, financial independence, and the desire to transcend the monotony of 9-to-5 jobs.

Our aligned visions made us wonder if we could combine our strengths and embark on a shared entrepreneurial journey.

The brainstorming sessions at the gym transitioned into business planning, and soon we identified Amazon as a platform ripe with potential.

It took us a while to actually come to something that works, such as selling on Amazon.

Marina: So, you both took that leap of faith together, started from scratch, and went through the growing pains of establishing a business.

That must have been quite the journey.

Vova: Absolutely, Marina.

We began contemplating our partnership towards the end of 2015.

It took us about a year of planning and learning before we finally launched our first product in January of 2017.

From the outset, it was a learning curve for both of us. 

Although we had prior experiences, this was the first venture that genuinely bore fruit and felt tangible.

Marina: And having someone beside you, sharing those initial struggles and eventual successes, must have been invaluable.

It's not just about the profits or the business strategies, but the shared experiences, the highs and lows, and navigating challenges as a team.

Vova: You've hit the nail on the head, Marina.

Our partnership has been about more than just business.

We began with zero experience, and every step of the way, we were learning together.

It's those shared challenges that forged our bond even stronger.

More Benefits Of A Partnership

The key, I believe, is finding the right synergy — understanding each other's strengths, establishing clear communication channels, and ensuring mutual respect.

Eli: A successful partnership is indeed a two-way street.

Vova: Exactly!

And learning to work in harmony takes time and patience.

At the start, there's bound to be friction as two individuals bring their unique perspectives and methods to the table.

But through understanding and adaptation, partners can carve out distinct roles and responsibilities.

Eli: It's like a dance, isn't it?

Understanding each other's rhythms, stepping in when needed, and letting the other take the lead when it's their strength.

Vova: Perfect analogy, Eli.

Over time, as our business evolved, we identified the areas we excelled in.

It became evident where I should take the lead and where my partner's strengths lay.

This division of labor not only streamlined our operations but also fortified our partnership.

Challenges Of A Partnership

Marina: But surely, challenges would have arisen along the way, right?

Especially concerning finances and investments.

Vova: Oh, absolutely.

Financial challenges are inevitable, especially when there's a disparity in the amount each partner can invest.

One partner might be willing and able to invest more, eager to accelerate the business's growth, while the other might be more cautious or limited by their finances.

This can lead to tension.

But open dialogue and a shared vision for the company's trajectory are paramount.

Mutual understanding can help bridge such gaps.

Eli: I can imagine that finding common ground, especially when it comes to finances, would be tricky.

But it sounds like you've managed to strike a balance.

Vova: Indeed, Eli.

It's been a journey, and while there have been bumps along the way, our commitment to mutual growth has prevailed.

The challenges, particularly around collaboration and finance, have taught us to prioritize understanding and empathy.

And I believe this is why, after seven years, we're still going strong.

Personalities Of Me and My Business Partner

Marina: Do you think your similar personalities played a role in that success?

Vova: Absolutely. While we share certain characteristics, our differences have been our strengths.

I enjoy the networking and rapport-building side of our venture, and this has naturally led me to manage our supplier relationships.

My partner, on the other hand, brings an analytical touch.

He's meticulous and has a knack for designing processes and organizational structures.

So while we both carry a bit of the other's trait, it's this balance that's been beneficial.

About The Partnership Of Marina And Eli

Eli: That's fascinating. 

In our partnership, we both tend to lean more toward the visionary side.

We often refer to "The E-Myth Revisited" by Michael Gerber.

The book emphasizes the need for a visionary, a manager, and a technician in every business.

Currently, we're both a blend of visionary and manager.

This means we're always bursting with ideas, but we recognize the need to strengthen our managerial side.

We're on the lookout for ways to implement robust systems so that our vision can be effectively translated into action.

The challenge is to not get so engrossed in brainstorming that we overlook the execution.

Vova: Absolutely, Eli.

It's essential to strike a balance.

Sometimes, having that visionary outlook can lead to creating grand strategies, but it's the execution where most businesses stumble.

Marina: Exactly, and we're aware of this gap in our operations.

We're investing time and resources into working with virtual assistants to streamline our processes.

Though it's a learning curve, with trial and error, and tweaks here and there, we're hopeful.

By learning from the best, like the insights from the books we're reading, we aim to have our business function in a healthier and more efficient manner.

And while we are at it, I must say, reading is truly an eye-opener.

When Eli and I discuss the books we've read, it's intriguing to see how we sometimes perceive the same information differently.

A point I might overlook or not give much thought to could be something Eli finds incredibly impactful and vice versa.

It's a testament to how diverse perspectives can enrich one's understanding.

E-Myth Revisited Book Review

Marina: Also, speaking of "E-Myth," it brilliantly breaks down the significance of recognizing individual strengths and channeling them efficiently.

We all know we're different, but understanding how these differences can be leveraged for business is invaluable.

The book elucidates the roles of a visionary, seeing the grand picture, and a technician, focusing on the minutiae, the detailed processes, and systems.

The technician's role, especially, is where many businesses could benefit from added emphasis.

They're the ones ensuring there's a system for every little detail, be it organizing stock based on expiry dates or ensuring meticulous documentation with signatures and dates.

Having someone dedicated to this can transform operations.

And that's the kind of person we're seeking right now.

Someone who can bring that level of detailed organization and systematic thinking to our venture.

We have big ideas, but we need someone to help lay down the concrete steps to bring those ideas to life.

And that's the essence of a well-functioning business, isn't it?

A blend of different individuals, each bringing their own unique strengths and skills.

It's like the different cogs in a clock, each vital, and when they all work in harmony, the clock ticks flawlessly.

And building on that, one thing that I've realized over the years is the importance of being open and collaborative.

Initially, many entrepreneurs might think, "I'll keep everything close to my chest, not share my secrets."

But, in reality, the more open we are, the more we grow.

Sharing experiences, and learning from others, even from YouTube channels or online communities, always provides a fresh perspective.

Vova: It's so true!

Marina: You never know where you'll pick up a new strategy or a unique way of looking at things.

And by fostering these connections and being open to learning from others, we enrich our own business knowledge.

It's not just about business strategies, but also about the people's connections.

I remember this one time when I had hired a VA who, unfortunately, wasn't the right fit for our business.

However, when a friend was looking for a VA, I recommended her, and they clicked perfectly.

They've been working together for months now.

It's amazing how sometimes what doesn't fit in one scenario might be perfect in another.

Vova: It goes on to show the beauty of networking and connections.

We must remember that in the world of business, relationships are paramount.

And sometimes, it's these relationships that can be the differentiating factor.

Masterminds Of Amazon Sellers And Friendships With Sellers

Vova: Speaking of which, masterminds, as Eli mentioned earlier, have been game-changers for me.

I've been a part of the eCom Brand Builder Mastermind (EBB Mastermind) since its early days in 2019.

We've grown to around 30 members now, and we meet weekly in smaller groups.

It's an environment of accountability where we set and review our goals together.

But, more importantly, it's a platform of shared knowledge.

Marina: That sounds invaluable.

The collective wisdom of a group, all actively involved in the same industry, can be enlightening.

You get insights from different perspectives, which might be hard to come by if you're working solo.

Vova: Precisely.

And in our mastermind, we have certain criteria.

You have to be an active Amazon seller and, if memory serves right, achieve a certain sales threshold – around 10K per month, though the numbers might've changed recently.

Joining this mastermind has been such a game-changer for me.

Marina: It's an incredible opportunity to learn, right?

A melting pot of ideas, strategies, and experiences.

Vova: Exactly.

Those weekly calls, sharing our listings for feedback, discussing and comparing strategies, have been invaluable.

There's so much to learn from each other.

It's this collective growth mindset that really propels us forward.

I mean, I've come across strategies in our group that I had never even considered before.

Marina: And that's the beauty of such communities.

It's not just about business growth; it's also about personal growth.

The shared experience and collaborative learning mold you as an entrepreneur.

Vova: I couldn’t agree more.

And while partnerships and masterminds offer collective insights, there are some solo sellers out there achieving remarkable feats on their own.

I remember meeting Chris in Phuket.

He's a solo seller but manages a sizeable store.

Marina: It's fascinating how the right group can accelerate your growth.

And while masterminds are fantastic, even individual connections can lead to great insights.

Tell me more about this solo seller, Chris, you mentioned.

Vova: Chris is a unique story.

I met him during my trip to Phuket.

He's running a mid-six-figure store all by himself, specializing in private labels within the sports niche.

While he doesn't have the immediate team advantage that partnerships or masterminds offer, his dedication and keen sense of the market have allowed him to thrive.

It's a testament to the fact that there's no one-size-fits-all in business.

Everyone has their journey and strategy, but the key is to remain adaptable and always open to learning.

And that's the essence of entrepreneurship, isn't it?

Having someone to share your journey with, your challenges, and your wins, is so crucial.

It can be lonely, especially in the beginning.

Many of us experience feelings of being misunderstood by those around us.

That's why connecting with like-minded individuals, whether it's through a mastermind or a partnership, can be such a lifeline.

Is there anything else you girls would like to share before we wrap up this article?

Marina: Yes, absolutely.

Why The Girls Started Their Own YouTube Channel

Marina: I just wanted to say that the feeling of being on an island by yourself, where no one quite gets what you're doing or the challenges you face, can be tough.

That's a significant reason why we started our YouTube channel.

We wanted to create a space where we could share our insights, and learnings, and give back to the community that has given us so much.

Vova: That's fantastic.

Giving back is so essential, and it sounds like your channel is more than just about sharing insights.

It's about building connections and creating a community.

Eli: Indeed.

Through the channel, we've also opened doors to networking opportunities.

We've been interviewing software owners, and sharing tutorials, and all of that wouldn't have been possible without this platform.

It's a hub for engagement, questions, new ideas, and unforeseen collaborations that might arise.

Or better said, it's like this all-encompassing umbrella for everything we're passionate about.

We're really excited about the direction it's taking and the potential networking opportunities it can lead to.

Vova: It sounds like a win-win for both you and your audience.

The digital space is such a powerful tool for connection, and it's great to see you both harnessing it so effectively.

Before we end, any parting advice for aspiring entrepreneurs out there?

How To Find A Good Business Partner

Marina: Yeah, I wanted to add that it's not about aggressively seeking a partner or plastering every online group with "Looking for a partner" posts.

Often, it's the most organic connections that become the most meaningful.

For example, by merely engaging in comments on Amazon-focused Facebook groups, responding to posts, sharing your own experiences, or answering questions.

Over time, relationships develop naturally.

And I can't stress enough how important it is to step out of your comfort zone.

A simple act, like sharing a positive experience or lending a helping hand in a group, can lead to incredible opportunities.

You never truly know where one act of sharing or kindness can lead.

I remember when I first connected with Vova.

As a fellow Russian speaker, I reached out to his Russian channel to share some insights about getting ungated on Amazon.

It was our first collaborative video.

To my surprise, I discovered that people resonated with the way I explained concepts.

I think it's essential for listeners to understand that not every partnership or collaboration is smooth sailing.

There are challenges, disagreements, and tensions.

It's not always rainbows and butterflies.

But in my experience, the benefits of partnerships and collaborations far outweigh the occasional hiccups.

These relationships can open doors you never even knew existed.

And look where we are now.

From that initial connection with Vova, I ventured into creating content through my own Russian-language YouTube channel, and now, we have our English channel as well.

And to everyone out there, give partnerships a shot.

Dive into it, test the waters, and share your experiences with us.

We'd love to read your stories in the video comments.

Remember, it's all about growth, learning, and continuously evolving.

Tinder For Entrepreneurs

Vova: Yeah, you know, there might just be something to that - an app tailored for entrepreneurs to meet and collaborate.

Like a more niche-focused meetup platform.

Marina: Maybe it's a good idea.

While the entrepreneurial world might seem like a smaller community, they're indeed a passionate lot, willing to invest in tools that bring genuine value.

Vova: Given how much entrepreneurs are willing to pay for resources, tools, or connections that can push their ventures forward, such an app might just fill a big gap.

Marina: Maybe we're onto something here! 😀

Imagine, our next venture might just be this app!

Who knows, right?

The future holds endless possibilities.

And the best ideas often come from spontaneous conversations like this one.

Vova: That's true. Well, thank you both for joining today.

It was a pleasure discussing and brainstorming.

To our audience, make sure to check out Marina and Eli's YouTube channel.

If you're interested in joining a mastermind, eCom Brand Builder Mastermind might be your way to go.

Eli: Thank you, Vova, for having us.

It's always a pleasure to share our experiences and learn from others.

Marina: Yes, thank you! It's been a great conversation, and I hope our insights prove valuable to those listening.

Until next time!

Vova: Absolutely! Thanks to everyone tuning in.

Wishing you all success in your ventures and remember, stay connected and never stop learning.

Bye for now!

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The Bottom Line

So, that's a wrap up on our lively chat about the world of business and partnerships!

Let's break down the cool things we learned and why they matter.

Imagine you and a friend are building the most epic sandcastle on the beach.

Alone, it might take hours, and you might not have all the ideas to make it super cool.

But together?

You share ideas, tools, and the work.

That’s exactly what Marina, Eli, and I were chatting about - but instead of sandcastles, they’re talking about businesses.

1. Two heads (or more) are better than one!

When you work with someone else on a project or a business, it's like teaming up in a video game.

Each player brings their unique skills and ideas.

You cover for each other when one needs a break or when one faces a tricky level.

In the business world, that's called "collaboration", and it's a magical thing!

2. Sharing is caring.

Ever had a secret you were itching to tell?

Or perhaps, you learned a new trick and wanted to show it off?

That's how these business folks feel.

They believe in sharing their knowledge, tips, and experiences.

By sharing, they not only help others but they also learn a lot from what others have to share with them.

3. Building connections.

Do you remember making a new friend in school or at a camp?

How did you both find something in common, like a favorite game or book, and just clicked?

In the grown-up world, that’s called "networking".

It’s a big word, but it simply means making new friends in your field of work.

And just like in school, the more friends you have, the more fun and easy things get.

4. Exciting side projects.

Apart from their main work, Marina and Eli started a YouTube channel.

It's like when you're working on a big school project but also doodling in your notebook during breaks.

Those doodles might seem small, but sometimes, they can turn into fantastic art pieces.

Their YouTube channel is their 'doodle' which grew into something super cool.

5. Ideas can come from ANYWHERE!

The best bit from their chat?

Realizing that a simple conversation can spark a big idea!

Like suddenly thinking of a new game to play or a story to write during a regular chat with a friend.

We thought of an app just by chatting and dreaming together!

To wrap up our cool chat summary, working together and sharing ideas is like the magic formula for success. 

It’s like adding that secret ingredient to your favorite cookie recipe that makes them taste extra delicious.

Whether it’s business or just a work project, remember that teamwork and sharing ideas can turn good things into amazing things!

And hey, who knows?

Maybe one day, you'll team up with a friend and start a fantastic project of your own.

So, keep dreaming, keep sharing, and always be on the lookout for your next big idea.

Remember, every great thing starts with a simple thought!

So, think big, team up, and make those dreams come true.

Who's ready to get started? 🌟🚀🎉