Question about "Showcases"

[Former_Member]

Does anyone every actually pay the $7.00 to have an item "showcased" and if so, was it worthwhile?? Every time I think of doing it, pretty much ALL of the jewelry categories (bracelets, necklaces, rings, etc.) are completely sold out?!? What's up with that?? I'd appreciate any input. Thanks!

[Former_Member]

Hi JuJu,
I tried a showcase twice (brooch category) because everything else was sold out. It didn't help with views or sales. I asked the same question a while back and the general feeling is the showcases are not really worth the money. I have received more exposure from treasuries and participating in teams. I love your shop by the way..!

[Former_Member]

OK, that's what I was thinking, too. Thanks so much ... I like yours too!! Maybe you have some idea(s) why I have only four sales in like eight months?!?! The truth is I didn't really know WHAT I was doing for probably close to three or four months. I really started to "get it" in April-May but I'm SOOOO frustrated and quite discouraged. I don't have to tell you how much work goes into this...and I'm starting to lose steam (but I don't WANT to) ... I'm really trying to make this successful. Any ideas? Anyone?

[Former_Member]

Dear Juju, i had the very same problem with the children category, and bc I was sure that this the thing that will make me a great seller, I had to wake up very early in the morning in order to catch the date changing...
it's really not worth the money or the expectation.

i would spend the money on re-listing instead
good luck!
Adi

[Former_Member]

I would really appreciate some honest critiques. Like I said, I'm starting get very discouraged. I'm working all day to improve my photos, re-word my descriptions & titles, tag words, ALL of it ... I don't know what more to do. I've done treasuries, I comment on other peoples' treasures, I re-new and re-new and re-new. I'm at a loss. Please help!!

[Former_Member]

I didn't have much luck with the papergoods showcase a while back. Maybe just a few extra views but no sales from it.

Don't give up! Maybe start evaluating how you're marketing your product outside of Etsy. The best advice I've ever heard for jewelry sellers is to never leave the house without one of your pieces on. (And the same should go for all of the women in your family and your friends!) and then just make sure you (and all of them) have a few business cards on hand if anyone compliments you on them.

Best of luck.

[Former_Member]

First the main question of showcases- I did one yesterday and it did nothing for me at all. Maybe it works for some... Definately teams and treasuries are they way to go for me.

JuJuBeader, I took a look at your shop and you have lots of gorgeous jewellery I'd be happy to wear. Looking at your banner- its so bright and jucy looking, maybe your listing photos could match that a bit more? They are maybe slightly dark... (Im sometimes guilty of the same though) Also Not sure about the backgrounds you have them on. Except the handwriting suits the piece on it. Maybe the patterns are clashing a bit with the jewellery shapes and colours? Try out a few different ideas. Any help?

[Former_Member]

It's definitely good advice, cassandrastephanie! And I do that--I am always wearing at least one of my pieces. The funny thing is: people will almost always comment but then it ends right there. I'm definitely not "pushy" or even the slightest bit assertive when it comes to selling my stuff. Maybe that's the problem. I feel "well, if they like it--they'll but it." And sometimes they DO. Anyway, I'll be participating in a couple of craft shows. I'll be sure to be a little bit more 'confident' and steer any possible business toward Etsy. Thanks for your advice!!