Entrepreneurs around the world are taking part in a growing online marketplace devoted to the buying and selling of handmade products. What is this marketplace, you ask. Its called Etsy and its a great place to sell your handmade wares.
Released in 2005, Etsy hosts more than 100,000 sellers worldwide. These sellers market everything from jewelry and candles to soap, clothing, and domestic products. While Etsy created its foundation in the buying and selling of homemade products, sellers can also sell craft supplies and vintage items as well.
Why Sell on Etsy?
Your own URL. Etsy provides sellers with a customizable online shop which includes a URL based on your username, access to marketing tools and resources and the ability to participate in an online community of Etsy sellers who network and support each other.
Etsy is easy for both buyers and sellers to utilize. Store owners can customize their shops without the need for programming skills or knowledge. PayPal is the payment processor of choice so payment and fulfillment are easy for both customer and buyer.
Getting started is free!
Your First Step to Selling on Etsy
Register. Visit Etsy.com and sign up. Its free " though you will be required to register a credit card to pay for listing and transaction fees.
When you make a sale Etsy will charge a 3.5% transaction fee and each item you list costs .20 cents however each listing lasts for four months.
Making the Most of your Etsy Store
Etsy is growing and that means more competition. A few careful strategies will help you stand out from the crowd. Create a unique username, which will also become your store name.
A customizable username. Your username is your store URL. Choose a name that represents you and your products. Provide a great customer experience and youll build your credibility with positive customer feedback.
Research your competition. Its also critical to spend some time checking out the Etsy website, your competition, and other artisans. This will help you set prices, create your online store, and position your products competitively.
Captivating photos. Your customers want to see your fantastic products. Be sure to take great pictures, pictures that represent all you have to offer.
Write detailed product descriptions. Its also important to provide accurate and detailed, though not long winded, descriptions of your products. If your product has an interesting story behind it, share. Tell prospects what your products are made out of, their size and shipping options.
Search Engine Optimization. Take advantage of keyword tagging and category features to position your store and products well. Each store owner gets fourteen keywords per product; make sure to use them all to position yourself competitively.
Cross promote. If you have a business website, direct traffic to your Etsy website and vice versa. On your business website, collect visitor information and establish regular communication with prospects and customers to encourage repeat sales and generate interest.
If you sell homemade products, crafting supplies, or vintage wares, building an Etsy store is a great way to add dollars to your bottom line. Its a fantastic and easy to use tool to showcase your wares, build a community, and to grow your business.
About the Author:
Set yourself apart from other sellers with your own Etsy logo design. Angie Sandy is the lead designer and owner of Auction Add Ons, your source for making the most of your online selling.
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