Thinking Outside the Box Fridays

It's no secrete that Etsy is hard work and some times it can feel like you're working your tail off with no results. Sometimes you have to think outside the box to achieve what you want. Here are my top 10 ways to be more successful on Etsy. I can't say that if you do all these things you will be the top seller on Etsy.

1. If what you are doing isn't working try something else.
When ever I start feeling like things aren't working I try a new technique. I make jewelry but if you make soaps for instance try a new scent, make salts etc. If you aren't selling well a couple new items will freshen up your shop and also make you excited to do something new.

2. Treat your shop like a business.
I think a lot of people look at there shop as a hobby and it maybe a hobby but your buyer doesn't know that. You want to put your best face forward. That means don't complain in forums all the time.

3. Promote
You need to promote yourself because in reality no one is going to do that for you. I'll be giving promotion tips in my next Thinking Outside the Box.

4. Blog
I know that blogging can seem like one more thing that you have to do on your list. Make sure that if you blog it's because you want to and not just because it's on a list somewhere and everyone is doing it. Read other people's blogs! Surf around blogs are great place to network and learn.

5. Join a street team
I love my street teams, especially my Jets. Find a street team that you fit into well. Street teams will help you promote, offer great friendships and most of all give you tons of support.

6. Don't depend on Etsy as your main income
You're probably saying what is she talking about? Well I'm saying don't put all your eggs in one basket. Is Etsy the most popular handmade selling website? Yes it is but the more you're out there the more you're noticed. There are a lot of other websites like Lov.li, Craigslist, DaWanda etc.

7. Give Back
Help others along the way. If someone is in the forums and ask a question that may have been asked a thousand times DO NOT jump on them. Instead help them. Yeah they could have done a search but chances are they may not know how. Remember you were new once too. Also I know that I personally make a note of people who are nasty in forums and don't buy from them. I figure if that's how they treat their co-workers than how will they treat me. Give back also through promoting others!

8. Observe the Golden Rule
If you send someone a convo or leave them feedback you'd like the same in return right? Well don't forget that others do too. Try to return convos in 48 hours because if a person has to wait longer they will move on and buy from someone else. There goes your sale. Feedback is really important to a lot of Etsy sellers. We want to know did you like my product? Was my customer service good?

9. Photos and Tags
Use all your photo slots and tags if you can. When doing your photos make sure they are clear and the background doesn't take away from your item. Also make sure you do one macro photo so people can really see your stitching, colors etc. Tagging is so important on Etsy! When you have tags to fill don't forget colors, textures, materials and how would you search for your item if you were going to buy it?

10. ALWAYS HAVE FUN!!
I think the most important tip is to always have fun. Once you craft becomes a pain staking job that isn't fun your craft will reflect that. You should see this as a job but who wants to work at a job that is awful? No one! You are your boss so don't hate yourself.

Stay tuned for more Thinking Outside the Box. If you have any tips to add leave a comment! I'm always looking for great pieces and Etsy Artists to feature. If you think that's you let me know! As always happy crafting!