When is it appropriate to contact a customer?

[Former_Member]

Hi Everyone
My shop is fairly new, and I have a question that I'm not sure where to look for the answer. If this isn't the place please let me know where I should ask...

If a customer has favorited my shop, items, is it appropriate to contact them to ask what they like, etc.; or should we always wait for the customer to actually contact us first? I would like to "speak" to someone who appreciates my items, but don't want to do the wrong thing.
Thanks!

[RomaMiaTradingCo]

I consider this spam. People favorite items for various reasons, and some of those reasons don't have the intention of buying the item.

I used to reach out to people if they liked my stuff, than I got put off when people started doing it to me. Than I heard it might be considered spam if we do it, and between the two, I just stopped.

I would err on the side of caution, and unless if customers speak to you first here or they actually ordered from you, that's the only way I will contact a customer.

[Former_Member]

Thanks, I thought it might seem inappropriate, but wasn't sure.

I come from a background of selling my jewelry in person and you definitely want to reach out to someone who is admiring your work.

[Former_Member]

The general Etsy etiquette (and the rule per Etsy too, I believe) is that you may not contact anyone who has favourited your item unless they contact you first.

From a personal standpoint, I tend to favourite a lot of items simply because I think they are nice and/or want to support the shop owner, but don't intend to buy. If everyone sent me a message every time, my inbox would be flooded!

Hope this helps. :) Selling online is a little bit different from selling in person. All the best, and welcome to Etsy! :)

[RomaMiaTradingCo]

Mary Ellen, I totally get you with the inperson selling. I think its easier to gently approach people in person. But on the internet, all bets are off and while your being hospitable, some people might just be put off because sometimes the written word doesn't always translate well. :(