Etsy is a fantastic platform for creative entrepreneurs, but it’s not without its challenges. If you’re thinking about opening an Etsy shop, or if you’re already running one, certain missteps can harm your chances of making sales.
How should you photograph your wares? What words should you use in product descriptions? How do you optimize your shop for search engine rankings? Get answers to these questions while learning six blunders to avoid with your Etsy shop.
1. Not Optimizing Your Shop for Search Engine Rankings
Search engine optimization is vital for any business, but it’s crucial for Etsy shops. Why? Because people use search engines like Google to find the products they’re looking for. You’re missing out on potential customers if your shop doesn’t appear in search results.
To optimize your shop for search engines, include relevant keywords in your shop name, tags, and descriptions. Use tools like Google’s Keyword Planner to research which keywords are most popular among your target audience.
You can even optimize an Etsy shop for a local target audience. For instance, if your shop is based in Denver, a Denver SEO agency can help you create an eCommerce SEO strategy that targets shoppers in the Mile High City and surrounding neighborhoods.
2. Not Offering Free Shipping
Free shipping is one of the most significant determining factors in whether someone will purchase from an Etsy shop. You’re likely losing out on sales if you’re not offering free shipping.
To offer free shipping and still make a profit, consider increasing your product prices slightly or adding a shipping surcharge to orders from specific locations. For instance, if someone orders from outside the U.S., you can add a shipping surcharge to the order.
3. Not Knowing Your Audience
Before you open an Etsy shop, it’s important to research your target audience. Who are they? What are their needs and wants? What products do they already buy on Etsy?
Knowing your target market helps you create products that interest buyers. Another reason it’s essential to understand your audience is that knowing your buyer makes marketing your shop much easier.
4. Not Having Quality Photos
If you want to sell products on Etsy, you need quality photos. Poor quality photos make your products look unprofessional and likely won’t interest buyers in checking out your store.
While taking images of your products, harness the power of daylight. Using daylight and a white poster board as a backdrop is an effective way to take photos that pop. Avoid glare by taking images from different angles.
5. Not Creating Unique Products
Etsy is a marketplace full of talented creatives, so making your products unique is important. People come to Etsy to find things they can’t find anywhere else, so if you’re selling mass-produced items or products similar to what’s already available, your store may not see much action.
The key to selling unique products is to look for a niche. Figure out what’s missing from existing products and Etsy shops. For instance, rather than selling jewelry, you can sell jewelry boxes.
6. Not Being Active on Social Media
Social media is a powerful marketing tool, and it’s essential for promoting your Etsy shop. Make sure you’re active on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, and use hashtags to reach your target market.
While on social media, pay attention to when your posts get the most attention. For example, you may notice your posts get more views earlier during the day. If so, schedule posts to publish first thing in the morning.
Etsy is a wonderful platform for creative entrepreneurs, but it’s essential to avoid making these common mistakes. By taking the time to research your target market, investing in good quality photos, and promoting your shop on social media, you’ll be well on your way to success.
