Whatnot's 37-year-old seller earns over $100,000 monthly by selling clothes: "Consistency is crucial."

Whatnot's 37-year-old seller earns over $100,000 monthly by selling clothes: "Consistency is crucial."
Whatnot's 37-year-old seller earns over $100,000 monthly by selling clothes: "Consistency is crucial."

Zoreen Kabani was always passionate about fashion and coordination, but she didn't think she could make a career out of it.

Kabani, a 37-year-old financial expert now residing in Las Vegas, spent the initial years of her career working in finance. In her homeland of Pakistan, "it's still a cultural norm to pursue a traditional career path," she remarks. She previously worked as a financial analyst at Goldman Sachs and later as a banker and financial advisor at JPMorgan Chase.

In early 2022, after almost a decade at JPMorgan, she had a realization. "I thought, you know what, I'm not happy," she says. "I want to do something creative." So she quit abruptly and began contemplating her next move. That's when her brother introduced her to the live auction site Whatnot, where people stream auctions of a wide range of items, including comics and electronics.

By June 2022, Kabani was livestreaming thrifted clothing auctions on the site, becoming obsessed and addicted to the fashion section.

In October 2023, Kabani's Whatnot page surpassed the $100,000 per month mark and now generates six figures per month. To replicate her success, here's her advice.

'Consistency is key'

Kabani's streaming schedule was one thing that set her apart from the beginning.

"I have been streaming up to twice a week, but I started doing streams Monday through Friday," she says. "I believe my success on the app is due to my consistent presence and long-term commitment to streaming." This has helped me establish a strong relationship with my community and provided me with more opportunities to sell.

"Consistency is key," she says.

Offer something unique

Her unique selling approach has contributed to her business's success.

Instead of focusing solely on selling specific brands, Kabani aims to help buyers create outfits that complement their style. She carefully selects items she likes and provides guidance on what would look great with them. For example, if she shows a netted top, she might suggest pairing it with a lace bralette.

She suggests that shoppers come to her for style advice and aesthetic, not just for the items she displays.

'Not everybody can afford a $100 ticket item'

Finally, Kabani advises sellers to start their pricing low.

When you're just starting out on an app that's built on auctions, you won't know how much things are going to go for until you understand your customer base. Starting low allows you to see how your customers behave and what you're likely to sell different items for in the future.

Kabani, two years into her business, will continue to offer low prices for some items, such as Aerie tops for $3, $2, and $4.

"She remarks, "That's amazing," before stating that not everyone can afford a $100 ticket item but can afford a $4 ticket blouse."

To stop worrying about money, enroll in CNBC's online course, Financial Wellness: Be Happier, Wealthier & More Financially Secure. We'll teach you the psychology of money, stress management, and healthy financial habits. Plus, use code EARLYBIRD for a 30% discount through September 2, 2024. Start today!

Sign up for CNBC Make It's newsletter to receive tips and tricks for success at work, with money and in life.

I dropped out of college to grow my side hustle — now it brings in $327,000
by Gili Malinsky

Make It