Originally Posted by
JNCT14
Ladies I am a marketing manager and here's a piece of advice - just because you build it does not mean they will come. Its like throwing a small rock into a large pond - unless you have a compelling reason for people to buy, it will sink to the bottom. You need to target your market and drive traffic and float that rock to the top. Use your community outlets to let people know what you have to sell - community newpaper advertising is cheap and easy. Good pictures are a must. Segregate by application, for example "looking for a unique handmade baby shower gift?" Or "Wouldn't you like a more attractive grocery tote bag?". Use bulletin boards at your local grocery store or college campus. Post your link on Facebook and let people know about your ongoing projects. Leverage what the Etsy experts provide for tools (I looked - they have some good advice). Tell everyone you know that you sell on Etsy - just like job networking, you need to spread your expertise to as many people as you know. See if you can link up with others who sell different things (like jewlery or Avon) and see if they would be willing to do a combined dem.
I have an etsy store and only have a few items listed right now. It's funny how customers shop. I might go months without a sale then have 2-3 in one month. It just depends on who's looking for what and how they hit your shop.
As JNCT says, marketing is the key. One thing I've learned from the Etsy handbook and tips from successful shops is to list something at least every other day. I know they've changed the way items are searched but it still seems to work for me. For some reason, this type of listing items brings your item to the forefront. Photos and tags are extremely important too, again learned this from Etsy's handbook. They do have a lot of help for success, although I some times feel overwhelmed will all their emails and documentations on the subject.
My goal this year is to get more items listed and spend more time learning the tips and techniques for successful sellers.