Is this Normal?

[Former_Member]

Hi everyone. I am new around here and so glad I found you. I opened my shop (Sapphire Noteables) in Feb. of this year. I read the handbook from front to back, took a 5-week Etsy on-line course and set things up using all my new found knowledge.
I hired a graphic designer to design my banner, an avatar, a business card and a blog header. I then started a blog and a facebook page. Between all this and making new items for my shop, it's been a busy time.
BUT, I have only made 2 sales! I have a sale going on for Easter to give me an indication if my prices are too high - but still no sales!
Am I being impatient or is this normal for a recently opened shop?
Any suggestions are appreciated. Thanks!

[Former_Member]

I should also mention that I have bought Search Ads as well as a Sponsored ad this weekend to help with my sale - these have increased my views significantly but not my sales.

[Davs]

I'd say it's normal, it takes time to get a following on etsy. Something that might help you too, is adding more product, the more items you have the more likely you are to be found.

[SahetahsJewelry]

Actually, it's not normal to make 2 sales so soon after opening! You are already on the right foot.

You have GORGEOUS creations, and I think the price is perfect for the detail and time you put into each of these. Only you have to 'sell' it to a customer. These scrapbooks are enchanting - you want your customers to read the descriptions and feel enchanted and inspired. You want your customers to 'feel' and 'dream' about what endless possibilities there are with your scrapbooks. Make them 'need' it. Save the dimensions and technical stuff after you describe your scrapbooks with whimsy.

Tell your customers why they are so special and unique!

Other than that, brighten up the photos. Bright and crisp photos sell!

You have done a great job at preparing yourself for a shop on etsy, and you've had a great start too! Don't be bummed, your work is fabulous and there are people out there who would love it!

[Former_Member]

Happy Easter. I understand your frustration. I think two sales is great right off the bat. I think your banner is beautiful but your avatar doesn't give me a clear picture of what you sell. When you post in the forums, many people will check out your shop based on your avatar.

the only other thing I would suggest is that your pictures should be brighter. I know some people balk at having a white background but I think your items would look best with a white background. It will increase your chances on being chosen for the front page.

Also check out google tools to find the most popular search words for your items. Keep playing with your SEO until you see a difference in your daily traffic.

I think you are off to a great start. Good luck

[Former_Member]

Really nice scrapbooks! Remember, the more items you have the more chances you have to be seen and to make sales!

Great shop! Good Luck!

[Former_Member]

Build your inventory, brighten your pics, define your listings, discover who your customer is, promote, etc.
Do all these things and I bet by Christmas you wont even be able to keep up. Your products are great btw. Love this notebook.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/92098751/mini-note-book-with-gel-pen-and-pocket

[SeedandSky]

Wow! I am impressed by your preparation! Your work is really creative and I am sure if you keep at it you will begin to sell more.

Participating in the forums and teams has helped me a lot. Even reading critiques of others shops helps me look at my own shop with a fresh eye.

I will say that it took me a little bit of time to figure out what you were selling (even though it looked interesting from the start). My suggestion would be to make it obvious through your title, announcement, banner, and photos exactly what you are selling. The most helpful piece of advice I got to start off was to make all of these as if I were describing my shop to someone who is blind. Most people only give your shop a couple of seconds or two before they click away~ you have to interest them and show them why they NEED an altered notebook in their life!

Best of luck!

[Former_Member]

Thank you everyone! This is really helpful. I wondered about my photos so will definitely re-do them this week and continue to add products. It's encouraging to know that I am on the right path.
Kelsey - I understand your confusion. My regular banner has a tag line saying what I sell but for this weekend I am using the Sale banner and it doesn't list it. Thanks!
Okay - off to edit listings and try to sell the customer.
Thanks again everyone.