taking things to the next step

[Former_Member]

This team always provides me with great advice, so here I am again, asking for your advice :)...

I've had my current shop up and running since June 2012, but I've been in my last year of college and really busy completing my thesis, so I haven't been active and attentive daily since around August. I do try to list new things, or at least re-list popular items weekly and try my best to keep up with SEO. I've had increasing success since I've been open, and every month a make more sales than the last. But I'm ready to start receiving weekly sales, and hopefully even daily.

I'm going to graduate in May, and I'd like my Etsy business to play a major role in my income after that.

How do I take the step from being a good shop, to a great shop? Should I start looking into outside advertising, or keeping up with things like Facebook, Twitter, and Pintrest (none of which I am really active on). What advice can you, lovely team mates provide and encourage me with to keep doing what I'm doing?

Many Thanks! <3

[gingerpickleshop]

I would say definitely put time into Facebook and Twitter. Those two have been the most valuable traffic sources to me.

Think of it as a long term strategy though and not a short term goal. You haven't been active on them for a while so don't jump straight in with the sales pitch or constant links to your shop. Post interesting stuff, behind the scenes pics, what you're working on, and remember to talk about normal things as your fan base will get bored if it's always about your shop. You probably know this already but just incase you didn't!

Good luck x

[Former_Member]

Hey Holly :) I started last year, and now it is my full time job. I am 19 at the time and finished my college course, and because I became so passionate about Etsy and selling jewellery, I completed my course and literally straight away, worked my bum off so I could earn a wage. I now make about 70 sales a month, and it earns me enough to buy pretty dresses and pay rent at home + bills! It has been amazing, but you just need to be determined, and try EVERYTHING people suggest. Even if you dont like facebook, do it. Even if you dont like selling certain items (I am not a huge fan of harry potter, but those necklaces sell like hot cakes!) it is still a sale. Just dont sell your soul, and keep making the things you love too. Last summer I had to open a new website just for the jewellery to cope with the demand I had, as I made sometimes 40 sales per day. And at 19 and working by myself, believe me I was shattered! But it was worth it :) I am back on Etsy, as I am going through a slump with sales and I do miss it here. I have facebook fans that are amazing and always give advice on what THEY want. Communicate with your customers and ask what they would like to see, and what they would actually spend their hard earned money on. It is possible, as long as you change your shop constantly, always try new ideas and keep old favorites, and before you know it you will get really loyal fans, and a little bit of money too :) I hope I helped, I havent even been open for one year yet (started in April last year) And I had barely any money to start with, my dad is a single parent, but I did it! And so can you, you really can :) good luck, and email if you need anything! xx