What is the biggest challenge you have faced while running your Etsy store? Is it marketing, time management, lack of time, dearth of ideas? How do you handle your challenges? Does it discourage you?
Hi, I have to say it isn't so easy to sell something on Etsy. :) You really need be very creative and hard working person if you would like to be successful. :))) I didn't sell anything yet, but I still work on my shop every day when I have time . I think that marketing is the biggest challenge for me. I will be happy if somebody can help me with it. :) Some ideas what is the best to do. Have a nice day for everybody :)))
My biggest challenge is trying to juggle developing new products and filling current orders. I always bump new projects I am working on in favor of completing current orders but as my shop gets busier (which is a good thing lol) I do find that new projects are being tabled for longer than I would like... I struggle to balance the 2
I agree, for me it is sales. I have only been on Etsy since March and have only sold 1 item. I still work hard on it though, never giving up. I constantly promote on FB and Twitter. My challenge is creating and adding new items on a regular basis. I'm getting better at it but it has been an issue. I'm not discouraged because I have seen a sale after only 2 weeks of being live on Etsy - so blessed there. BUT I WANT MORE! LoL (don't we all?)
@newhopebeading - I would love to have your challenge of juggling new product development with filling current orders - can't wait for that day. ll ask for help (same as kapakp) .. what else can I do from a marketing perspective? I'm working at selling my items through several local consignmnent shops.
mssmith03 ... thanks... it will come... takes time :) I have been here a few years and really just since right before christmas did this become an issue... you kinda get to a "tipping point" after awhile where return customers come back around "for the next holiday" lol
Probably photography. A lot of my items are reflective, and sometimes the sunlight can be too bright. Otherwise, I'm finding it fun, and a little addictive =p!
photography for me too!!! and maybe also the description of my items to... i am new here and my english is a little rusty (grewn up in the states but moved to italy about 20 years ago) ... but I'm workin' on it...and lovin' it!!! :)
Yes, moncherie43, addiction is a big issue with me too. I say I am taking off for 2 weeks and find myself browsing the forums 24/7. I feel like I give less time to my family and my health seems to be in poor state too. OMG, I need to strike a balance quick!
I tend to get good feedback when people actually see my store. I'm fairly new to etsy and I would say just getting general exposure can be a struggle. I intend on investing more time into my shop over the summer and would love suggestions on how to get more buyers.
Whew! Reading each response above makes me feel that I am not the only one who is overwhelmed! Its the SEO I'm still working on. I feel my creations are always buried and am trying to get noticed. Juggling an online business with little girls is a ginormous thing and am always scurrying to do things between nap time, cooking, cleaning- its the effective time management that I am also trying to deal with.
Probably photography. A lot of my items are reflective, and sometimes the sunlight can be too bright. Otherwise, I'm finding it fun, and a little addictive =p! ------------------------- I have the same problem with reflection. Try an overcast day... this way you get brightness without as much flashback when the sun hits your piece (also fewer harsh shadow) Now I shoot inside but I STILL get that problem with some of my pieces even in the light tent with the photographic light that have filters. Some of my pmc pieces have a mirror finish and it can be really tricky so I feel your pain LOL
