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How to Grow your Small Business on Etsy
Starting your own business can seem daunting, especially when you’re not sure where to start. Back in 2021, I set up my small business, which is something I’ve wanted to do for some time now. After months of creating items, I was ready to take the next steps and start selling. Although I’ve noticed ups and downs due to the economy, I am still proud of where my business is today. However, I don’t plan on stopping growing my business any time soon. That’s why I’ve curated 5 of the best ways to help grow your small business on Etsy.
Whether you’re just getting started or you’re stuck in a rut, I hope these tips can help you going forward.
Go International
Before Brexit posting abroad seemed a lot of an easier process, so until recently I’ve only had my shop set in the UK. However, after finding out about Twill who helps with Customs Clearance for small and medium businesses. The way in which Twill works is by using licensed customs experts to help with your shipping worldwide, and by providing you with the know-how you need. As well as, any new rules and regulations to consider. Twill can also provide you with cargo documents if this is required. With a simple and easy-to-use interface, going international is so much easier with Twill.
Use Pinterest
A lot of businesses recommend using Pinterest due to its versatility, and the fact it is visually based. If you already have Pinterest, it’s important to make sure you have a business account. Whether you choose to start over or continue on your existing account is up to you.
It’s easy for users to share an item they like by simply pinning it to a board. It is likely to be picked up by other users if your photos are eyecatching and SEO is done well.
Pinterest is also super easy to use, it is enjoyable and pins are quick and effective to make. Using your URL on your pin images is also an important step to consider, as it allows your pin to always have your information on it.
Include Keywords
When selling on Etsy, it can be hard to get noticed organically if you are creating something which is currently popular. As users will have their Etsy filled with similar products. Working out specific keywords to use within your listings without ‘stuffing’ them is important. According to the Etsy handbookit is important to lead with keywords that describe your item as it is the first thing shoppers see. You can use punctuation and some symbols in a title and they will still rank the same way.
Aim for less when it comes to titles, although you have the characters including an overwhelming amount of words can be confusing. Include what your item is made of if it is custom and what it is for.
Spend time on photography
Although this may be a given, spending time on your photography is key for driving sales to your Etsy store. If your pictures are dark, grainy, and unattractive you are less likely to get sales.
When taking photos of your items it is important to consider the following:
- Lighting – making your photos bright is important, whether that’s with studio lights or natural lighting
- Props – if you are using props in your photos make sure you don’t overload your photos as your item should be the main focus
- Clean background – any photos you are taking it is important to consider the background, if there are lots of random items or it is a mess, it may turn off potential buyers.
Run Sales
Finally, running sales is a great way to gain customers! Because who doesn’t love a sale? Especially if users have your items in their baskets but you don’t have a lot of sales. A small discount or even free postage can make a huge difference. Whether you are looking to run a sale to celebrate at a special time of year or around the end of the month when people get paid, your sales could bring in customers who are considering your product.
Etsy makes running sales super easy, whether you are looking to use a discount code or mark down your items, you can do so in a matter of minutes.
If you are a new small business owner, or you are considering starting a small business in the near future, I hope you’ve found this post helpful in building your business on Etsy.
If you’re looking to purchase anything from my store you can find The Confetti Cove on Etsy.
*This post is a collaboration with Twill, but all thoughts and experiences are my own