How much is TOO much (for a description)

[Former_Member]

Sometimes I wonder if my descriptions are too long. I am trying to be thorough. I don't like buying something online and discovering something that was left out of the description.

How do you all feel about this topic?

THANKS!

Jessica

[Former_Member]

When I'm buying something, I look for the basics, size, measurements, colors, materials used, etc. Anything beyond that is nice, but I don't tend to read it.

[Former_Member]

I am long winded too! LOL... I like to make sure nothing is left out so the buyer is as crystal clear as possible! :o)

[Former_Member]

I would put the basics that squid21r mentions at the beginning of your description for those who want an easy, yet, informative read and then I would definately add to those descriptions with "how to's and what to expect's". I have asked your same question and found that many people don't want to go through the trouble of contacting you and so unless you make them feel comfortable with what they will be receiving, often they will just move on rather than contact you to ask their questions.

[InspiredJewelryShop]

I don't really think there is a RIGHT answer for this. Hm. I mean...if your item is pretty simple then there really isn't a lot to say about it.

But if your item is a $1,500+ wedding dress or a custom dress or a custom item, then I want to know EVERYTHING about it.

I think it all just depends on WHAT the item is and how simple it is.

[Former_Member]

part of the answer depends on the item. for something that is say a pair of earings for $2 you dont have to say. "blue earrings" can be your entire description and it will sell.

that said you want all the basics:
size (measurements not small/large)
color
material

as you ask for more money you want more info.
why is it worth what you charge
why is your product better
how does your product improve the buyers life

i dont think my descriptions are perfect but they get the point across.

you see too that i focus a lot on why it worth what i charge:
http://www.etsy.com/listing/76472472/40in-x-40in-baby-blanket-pure-alpaca-w

here though, i focus instead on how my product will benefit the buyer.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/80352999/merino-wool-scarf-mens-womens-luxury

in this case the item is less expensive and the buyer (i am guessing) is more interested in the style and materials than about the labor hours or other crap.

[saburkitty]

I agree, it depends on what you sell, you can only give so much info for basic items. Others have needed details, like turnaround time.

There was a blog post, if I can find it about being flowery with descriptions.

[saburkitty]

I think this was the one.
http://www.etsy.com/blog/en/2011/etsy-success-writing-workshop/

[LittleShopofElleSee]

I have always been a person of few words...in most cases. I feel that as long as I provide the basic information, and good photos of the item, that I shouldn't have much more to say. I have cute little stories about where I took my photos and whatnot, but I also have a link to my policies page where the important information about shipping, etc. is.

[Former_Member]

Your descriptions are not too long, in my opinion. Google and Yahoo LOVE long descriptions, especially if you use your keywords several times in each description. This will help your shop get indexed and ranked in the search engines.

[Former_Member]

Thanks everyone!

Take care