Handmade & Beyond Podcast

I help other people start, build, and grow their handmade and Etsy businesses so that they can make extra money pursuing their passion. I am a real seller that makes their entire living off Etsy and my handmade business. I teach others how to do the same.

How Will Etsy's New AI Search Affect Your Shop? 06/09/2025

Your First 3 Months on Etsy Will Make or Break You (Watch This First) 05/20/2025

My Simple Etsy Creation Process For More Sales 04/29/2025

How To Set Up Etsy Listing Keywords To Get More Traffic (Copy This) 04/22/2025

STOP Writing Etsy Descriptions Like This! (Do This Instead) 04/15/2025

AI vs. Keyword Tools: Which Is Better for Etsy SEO? 03/25/2025

3 TOP Ways To Find WINNING Products/Niches on Etsy (Tutorial) 03/18/2025

Ultimate Etsy Shop Audit Checklist: Is YOUR shop optimized? 03/11/2025

What do Etsy's Q4 numbers mean for you?! Good or Bad? 03/04/2025

What do Etsy's Q4 numbers mean for you?! Good or Bad? Learn to make more 💰 on Etsy with less time! Get support, community & training to overcome roadblocks & reach your goals using my $540K framework! 🚀https://www.skool.com/etsygamesvip/about 💻Try Alura For Free Here: 📚Etsy SEO Revealed FREE eBook- Learn and understand Etsy SEO to help you grow your business. Download it for free here: 🚀Etsy Quickstart Free Guide- A quick guide to help you get your Etsy business off the ground. Download it for free here: Is Etsy in trouble? Sales are down, sellers are quitting, and competition is heating up. But at the same time, Etsy just reported record revenue. So what does this mean for you as a seller? In this video, I break down Etsy’s Q4 financial results, key trends affecting sellers, and what you should focus on moving forward. Here’s what I cover: • Etsy’s Sales Drop & Seller Exodus – Gross merchandise sales fell by 6.8%, active buyers declined, and sellers took a major hit, dropping by 10%. Is Etsy becoming a tougher place to sell? • Why Fewer Sellers Might Be a Good Thing – Etsy’s stricter seller policies are weeding out bad actors. Could this actually be a benefit for serious sellers? • Etsy’s Revenue Hits a New High – Despite fewer sales, Etsy made more money. How are they pulling this off, and what does it mean for you? • The Rise of Etsy Ads & AI-Driven Promotions – Etsy’s ad platform is playing a big role in its revenue growth, but are these ads really worth it for sellers? • Mobile App Growth & The Future of Shopping – More buyers are using Etsy’s mobile app, following the trend of mobile-first shopping. • Challenges Ahead: Competition & Economic Factors – Amazon, Shein, and economic uncertainty are shaping the landscape for e-commerce sellers. • What’s Next for Etsy Sellers? – Predictions for Q1 and why staying consistent is key to long-term success. /episode/index/show/etsyentrepreneur/id/35527790

How To Fix BAD Etsy Listings (3 Easy Steps) 02/26/2025

Etsy Says These Factors Don't Impact SEO... NOT SO FAST! 02/18/2025

Etsy Says These Factors Don't Impact SEO... NOT SO FAST! Learn to make more 💰 on Etsy with less time! Get support, community & training to overcome roadblocks & reach your goals using my $540K framework! 🚀https://www.skool.com/etsygamesvip/about 💻Try Alura For Free Here: 📚Etsy SEO Revealed FREE eBook- Learn and understand Etsy SEO to help you grow your business. Download it for free here: 🚀Etsy Quickstart Free Guide- A quick guide to help you get your Etsy business off the ground. Download it for free here: Etsy Search Secrets: What REALLY Impacts Your Rankings If you’ve ever wondered how Etsy’s search algorithm works and what actually helps (or hurts) your ranking, you’re not alone. Sellers are always searching for ways to improve their visibility and get more sales, but Etsy recently confirmed that two major factors DO NOT impact your search rankings—the Star Seller badge and Etsy Ads. However, there’s more to the story! In this post, I’ll break down exactly what Etsy said, how their search system works, and what you should focus on to increase your traffic and sales. The Truth About the Star Seller Badge For years, many sellers have believed that earning the Star Seller badge gives their shop a boost in search rankings. But according to Etsy, this isn’t true—the badge itself doesn’t help your listings rank higher. That said, the factors that go into earning the Star Seller badge DO affect your search ranking. Etsy’s algorithm considers: ✔️ Message response time – Fast replies improve your shop’s standing. ✔️ Shipping speed – Late shipments can lower your search visibility. ✔️ Review score – Higher reviews help Etsy’s algorithm trust your shop. So while the badge itself isn’t a ranking factor, meeting the requirements for it absolutely benefits your visibility in search. Etsy Ads vs. Organic Search Rankings Another common myth is that running Etsy Ads boosts your organic search performance. This is false. Etsy separates paid and organic search performance. Even if your ad campaigns generate clicks and sales, they won’t improve your organic ranking. Likewise, a listing that performs well organically won’t necessarily do well in ads. This is why I don’t recommend running Etsy Ads before optimizing your shop for organic sales. If you can’t sell your product without ads, it’s usually an SEO or niche issue—advertising won’t magically fix it. Instead, focus on improving your SEO, product photos, and descriptions first. How Etsy’s Search Algorithm Works Understanding how Etsy ranks listings will help you set up your shop for success. Etsy’s search process happens in two phases: Step 1: Query Matching When a shopper types something into the search bar, Etsy gathers all the listings that match that query. This is based on keywords in your titles, tags, descriptions, and attributes. For example, if someone searches for “gold heart pendant necklace,” Etsy pulls up listings with those keywords and related terms. However, just having the right keywords doesn’t guarantee a high ranking. Step 2: Ranking Listings Once Etsy gathers all potential listings, it ranks them based on several factors, including: ✅ Relevancy – Are your keywords an exact match for what the buyer searched? ✅ Shop & Listing Quality – Are all sections filled out? Do your listings look professional? ✅ Customer Service Metrics – Fast responses, on-time shipping, and high review ratings help. ✅ Engagement Rate – Etsy tracks clicks, favorites, and purchases to see if people like your listing. ✅ Recency Boost – New listings get a short-term visibility boost to see how they perform. ✅ Shopper Behavior – Etsy customizes results based on each buyer’s previous activity. Why You Should Never Search for Your Own Listings One of the biggest mistakes Etsy sellers make is searching for their own products to check their ranking. Etsy tailors search results to each shopper based on their past behavior, so what you see isn’t what your customers see. Even if you use incognito mode, your results won’t be 100% accurate because Etsy still personalizes search based on broader shopper trends. Instead, focus on using keyword research tools and tracking your actual sales performance to gauge your visibility. What You Can Control to Improve Your Etsy Rankings While some ranking factors (like buyer behavior) are out of your hands, there’s still plenty you can control: ✔️ Optimize your listings – Use clear, keyword-rich titles and descriptions. ✔️ Improve listing quality – Upload multiple high-quality photos and fill out all attributes. ✔️ Maintain good shop metrics – Fast shipping, great reviews, and quick responses matter. ✔️ Drive engagement – Encourage customers to favorite, share, and review your products. ✔️ Monitor performance – Track what’s working and tweak your listings based on real data. By focusing on what you can control, you’ll give your shop the best chance of success—regardless of Etsy’s algorithm updates. /episode/index/show/etsyentrepreneur/id/35312735

This makes Etsy much harder! Stop doing this! 02/04/2025

Are Etsy Ads Worth It in 2025? A Complete Seller Guide 01/28/2025

Etsy Success: Focus on This, Forget the Rest 01/21/2025

I Analyzed 100+ Successful Etsy Shops—Here’s What I Learned About the Algorithm 01/14/2025

Etsy Niche Formula - 3 Steps To FASTER Etsy Sales 01/07/2025

How To Increase Etsy Traffic - Copy This Plan 01/03/2025

Should You Sell on Etsy, Goimagine or Shopify? Everything You NEED to Know 12/24/2024

These EU Changes are CRAZY for Etsy Sellers! Full Details 12/17/2024

How to Sell More Than 99% of Etsy Sellers 12/10/2024

How to Sell More Than 99% of Etsy Sellers 👋I teach people how to make 💰 on Etsy with training, support, community & fun! 🎉 Join here for FREE: https://www.skool.com/etsygamesfree/about 26 Strategies I Use to Help Etsy Sellers Succeed In this podcast episode, I shared the key strategies that I’ve seen top 1% Etsy sellers use to grow their shops and dominate the platform. These aren’t about luck—they’re actionable steps that can help any seller move closer to their goals. I started by talking about how important mindset and passion are. Success on Etsy isn’t instant—it takes time, consistency, and a genuine love for what you do to push through challenges and keep going. I also emphasized the importance of treating your shop like a business. Showing up consistently, investing in tools like Alura and Canva, and building solid habits are essential to long-term success. Education plays a big role, too. I encourage sellers to continuously learn, whether through free resources like my Etsy Games platform or by investing in courses. Every action in your shop should have a strategy and purpose. I always tell people to focus on what they can control and not waste energy on things like algorithm changes. Consistency is another big factor. Regularly creating and improving listings not only helps you grow but also keeps you in tune with your niche and audience. And let’s not forget visuals—high-quality photos and videos can make or break a sale, so it’s worth investing in good lighting and staging. Understanding profit margins, running promotions, and offering stellar customer service are all part of the equation, too. Reviews build trust, so I shared tips on how to get more of them. I also talked about the importance of taking action—learning by doing is the fastest way to grow. Finally, I discussed the power of email marketing and standing out from the competition. Building a list and nurturing it with valuable content can drive repeat buyers, and finding ways to add value to your niche will set you apart. This episode was packed with actionable tips to help Etsy sellers succeed. If you’re ready to grow your shop, these 26 strategies are your blueprint to joining the top 1% of sellers. /episode/index/show/etsyentrepreneur/id/34363570

COMING SOON! This Will HURT Your Etsy Search Visibility 12/03/2024

Etsy Success in 2025? Get A Head Start (5 Steps) 11/26/2024

Etsy Success in 2025? Get A Head Start (5 Steps) 5 Steps to Jumpstart Your Etsy Business for 2025 As we head into 2025, I want to share a simple yet powerful 5-step plan to help you jumpstart your Etsy business, overcome challenges, and move closer to your goals. Whether you’re feeling stuck or just looking for fresh inspiration, these steps will give you clarity, focus, and the momentum you need to thrive. Let’s dive in! 1. Embrace the Truth About Passion and Hard Work You’ve probably heard the phrase, “Do something you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life.” While it sounds great, I have to call it out—it’s not true.Even when you’re passionate about your work, it still takes effort, consistency, and determination to make it successful. The reality is that running an Etsy business can feel like hard work, even if you love what you do. And that’s okay! Passion is essential because it helps you push through tough times, but passion alone isn’t enough. Success comes from sticking with it, even when the grind feels overwhelming. Remember, you’re not just selling products; you’re solving problems and bringing value to your audience. If you truly care about your customers, you’ll find the motivation to keep going, even when the work feels challenging. 2. Avoid Fly-By-Night Strategies Etsy success isn’t about chasing quick fixes or gaming the system. Many sellers fall into the trap of trying to hack their way to the top—whether it’s using outdated tricks to manipulate the algorithm or relying solely on fleeting trends. For example, some sellers used to renew their listings daily, hoping for a temporary search boost. That tactic doesn’t work anymore, and even if it did, it’s not sustainable. Similarly, basing your shop entirely on trending products can lead to constant stress, as trends fade quickly. Instead, focus on building a sustainable business model. Learn tried-and-true Etsy SEO strategies, understand your niche, and cater to a specific audience. This approach will save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. 3. Build a Sustainable Business by Serving a Target Market If you want to thrive on Etsy, you need to focus on serving a specific audience or niche. This means understanding your customers’ needs, preferences, and pain points. Who are they? What problems can your products solve for them? When you center your business around a target audience, you create a roadmap for success. Instead of chasing trends or throwing random products into your shop, you’ll have a clear direction. Here’s the key: Stop thinking about “making money” and start thinking about how to serve your audience. Focus on their needs, their likes, and what will genuinely make their lives better. Over time, this approach will not only bring in sales but also build customer loyalty and trust. 4. Master the Do-Learn-Do Cycle If there’s one formula that leads to success, it’s this: Do, Learn, Do. Here’s how it works: • Do: Take action in your business. List new products, test new keywords, or try a new marketing strategy. • Learn: Analyze the results. Which listings are getting traffic? What’s selling? What’s not? • Do Again: Use what you’ve learned to refine your approach, then take action again. This cycle is all about continuous improvement. Too many people get stuck because they’re afraid to start, or they take action but don’t learn from the results. The more you repeat this process, the better you’ll get at identifying what works and what doesn’t. 5. Stay Consistent Consistency is the secret sauce to Etsy success. It’s not about doing everything perfectly but about showing up regularly and putting in the work. For example, adding new listings consistently is one of the best ways to improve your shop’s visibility and sales. Based on recent Etsy seller polls I conducted, most sellers who struggle aren’t adding listings frequently enough. Here’s the truth: You can’t expect to see results if you’re not consistently working on your shop. Whether it’s creating new products, improving old listings, or researching keywords, small, consistent actions add up over time. Final Thoughts: Your Roadmap for 2025 Running a successful Etsy business isn’t about shortcuts or quick wins—it’s about building a strong foundation and staying committed to your goals. • Focus on hard work and passion, knowing that it takes effort to succeed. • Avoid gimmicks and fly-by-night strategies, and instead build a business that lasts. • Serve a specific audience and meet their needs with amazing products. • Embrace the do-learn-do cycle for continuous growth. • Stay consistent, even when progress feels slow. 2025 can be your best year yet if you stay focused, take action, and refuse to give up. You’ve got this—I’m rooting for you every step of the way! Let me know in the comments what your biggest goal is for 2025, and let’s make it happen together. /episode/index/show/etsyentrepreneur/id/34157040

Big Tax Changes Coming! Everything You NEED To Know 11/23/2024

Big Tax Changes Coming! Everything You NEED To Know 👋I teach people how to make 💰 on Etsy with training, support, community & fun! 🎉 Join here for FREE: Everything You Need to Know About Tax Changes for Etsy Sellers in 2024 As an Etsy seller, staying on top of tax changes is critical to running your business smoothly. In my recent podcast episode, I broke down the upcoming IRS reporting changes for the 2024 tax year, focusing on how they impact sellers using platforms like Etsy, eBay, and even payment apps like Venmo and PayPal. Here’s a summary of the key points from our conversation, designed to help you navigate these changes with confidence. Will You Get a $1099 for Etsy Sales Over $600 in 2024? This is the big question on every seller’s mind. The short answer: not yet. For the past two years, the IRS has been delaying the move to the $600 threshold for 1099 reporting, which means the threshold remains higher for 2024. As of now, you’ll receive a 1099 form only if you earn more than $5,000 in untaxed income through third-party payment apps. The IRS is giving payment platforms additional time to prepare for the lower $600 reporting threshold, which is scheduled to take effect in the 2025 tax season. So, for 2024, the $5,000 threshold still applies—but this is the last year for that limit. Understanding Taxable vs. Non-Taxable Transactions One of the trickiest parts of these changes is distinguishing between taxable and non-taxable income. Let me simplify it for you with a few examples: • Non-Taxable Transactions: Money received as a gift (like birthday money from family), reimbursement for shared expenses (like splitting a dinner bill via Venmo), or selling personal items at a loss (like furniture on Facebook Marketplace). • Taxable Transactions: Income from services or products sold, such as an Etsy order, a freelance project, or items sold for more than their purchase price (like collectible sneakers). The delayed rollout of the $600 threshold is giving platforms like Venmo, PayPal, and Cash App more time to refine their systems for accurately reporting taxable income. Why This Matters for Etsy Sellers If you’re selling on Etsy, eBay, Poshmark, or other marketplaces, these changes matter because they impact how your income is reported. Even if you don’t receive a 1099, the IRS requires you to report all income earned—even if it’s just a dollar. While many sellers only report income when they get a 1099, it’s crucial to stay compliant and report everything to avoid issues down the road. For platforms like Etsy, this tax season will look similar to last year, with the $5,000 threshold in place. But if you’re also selling through apps like Venmo or Cash App, be prepared for stricter reporting starting in 2025. Selling Personal Items? Here’s What You Should Know If you sell personal items, like furniture or clothing, for less than what you originally paid for them, you won’t owe taxes. For instance, if you bought a couch for $500 and sold it for $200, that sale is not taxable because you incurred a loss. However, if you’re selling items that appreciate in value—like rare collectibles—you’ll need to report any profits. Preparing for 2024 and Beyond Here’s the bottom line: don’t panic, but do prepare. If you’re earning untaxed income, keep accurate records and understand what’s taxable and what’s not. By staying informed, you can avoid surprises during tax season. This year, you may receive a 1099 if your untaxed income exceeds $5,000. Next year, that threshold will drop to $600, so now is the time to make sure your records are in order. Whether you’re selling crafts on Etsy, items on Facebook Marketplace, or offering freelance services, staying ahead of these changes will help you run your business confidently. /episode/index/show/etsyentrepreneur/id/34119131

How To Run Etsy Ads Without Going Broke! 11/19/2024

How To Run Etsy Ads Without Going Broke! 👋I teach people how to make 💰 on Etsy with training, support, community & fun! 🎉 Join here for FREE: When it comes to running Etsy ads and offsite ads, one of the biggest questions I get is: Are they worth it, or are they just a waste of money? In my latest podcast episode, I tackled this topic head-on, sharing everything you need to know to run ads effectively without blowing your budget. Here’s a breakdown of the key points we discussed. What Are Etsy Ads? Etsy ads are promoted listings that show up in Etsy’s search results. If you’ve ever searched for a product on Etsy, you’ve probably noticed rows of listings marked as “promoted.” These ads let sellers pay to boost their products in search results, giving them a chance to skip the line and get more visibility. What I love about Etsy ads is the level of control you have. You can decide: • Which listings to promote • How much money to spend per day (starting at $5) • Which keywords you want to target That control makes them a great tool—if you know how to use them wisely. Gradual Budget Changes Are Key One of the biggest mistakes I see sellers make is drastically increasing their ad budget overnight. If you jump from spending $5 a day to $50, Etsy’s algorithm can’t keep up, and your money won’t be well spent. Instead, I recommend gradually increasing your budget in small steps, like going from $5 to $8, then to $12, and so on. This slow-and-steady approach gives the algorithm time to adjust and ensures your ad spend is optimized for results. Ads Won’t Fix Bad Listings Here’s a hard truth: If your Etsy listings aren’t optimized, ads won’t save them. If you’re not already getting organic sales, running ads will only send traffic to listings that aren’t converting—and that can actually hurt your ranking. Before investing in ads, make sure your listings are in top shape. That means great photos, compelling descriptions, competitive pricing, and SEO-friendly keywords. Ads should amplify success, not cover up weaknesses. Offsite Ads: What You Need to Know Offsite ads are a completely different ballgame. Etsy runs these ads for you on platforms like Google, Facebook, and Bing. The catch? You don’t have much control over them. Etsy decides which of your listings to promote and charges you a fee only when a sale is made. Here’s how the fees work: • If you make over $10,000 in a rolling 12-month period, you’re automatically opted in, and the fee is up to 12%. • If you make less than $10,000, you can choose to opt-in, but the fee is up to 15%. In my experience, offsite ads tend to perform better than Etsy ads because Etsy is highly selective about which listings it promotes. This can result in a better return on ad spend (ROAS). Understanding ROAS (Return on Ad Spend) ROAS is a key metric that tells you how much money you’re making for every dollar you spend on ads. For example, if you spend $25 on ads and earn $130 in revenue, your ROAS is 5.2 (or $5.20 earned for every $1 spent). The average ROAS varies by niche, but a common benchmark is 3:1. However, depending on your profit margins, you may need a higher ROAS to stay profitable. That’s why it’s essential to calculate this metric and monitor your ad performance closely. Tips for Running Successful Etsy Ads If you’re ready to give Etsy ads a try, here are my top tips: 1. Test All Listings Initially: Start by advertising all your listings and then turn off ads for the ones that don’t perform well. 2. Avoid Frequent Changes: Don’t constantly tweak your budget or turn ads on and off—it confuses the algorithm. 3. Monitor Your ROAS: Use Etsy’s dashboard to track your return on ad spend and identify low-performing ads. 4. Focus on Profit Margins: Ensure your products have enough margin to absorb fees and still make a profit. Final Thoughts Ads can be a powerful tool for growing your Etsy shop, but only if you use them wisely. By understanding the differences between Etsy ads and offsite ads, gradually increasing your budget, and focusing on optimized listings, you can make your ad spend work harder for you. If you want to dive deeper into this topic, I’ve created a free cheat sheet to help you manage your Etsy ads like a pro. Just leave a comment on the podcast episode, and I’ll send it your way! Running ads doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. With the right strategy, you can attract more customers, boost your sales, and grow your Etsy business sustainably. Let’s do this! /episode/index/show/etsyentrepreneur/id/33993412

I Tried This & Added 30% More Yearly Etsy Revenue! 11/12/2024

I Tried This & Added 30% More Yearly Etsy Revenue! 👋I teach people how to make 💰 on Etsy with training, support, community & fun! 🎉 Join here for FREE: Boost Your Etsy Traffic and Sales with My Four-Step Trend Strategy In today’s post, I’m excited to share a powerful four-step trend strategy that can increase traffic and boost sales for your Etsy business. Trends play a huge role in bringing fresh eyes to your shop and creating more sales opportunities. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to build on your current success, this strategy will help you use trends to grow your shop without overwhelming it. Let’s dive into the main points of how trends can elevate your Etsy shop. Why Trends Matter for Etsy Success Trends are crucial for Etsy sellers because they’re popular, high-traffic items. Incorporating the right trends into your shop not only adds more visibility but also increases your chances of making more sales. I’ve helped other Etsy sellers grow their revenue by up to 20-30% just by using a targeted trend strategy, and I’m here to share how you can do the same. One of the easiest ways to get started with trends is by joining a community of other sellers. If you’re looking for support, I’d recommend joining my Etsy Games Community, where we share trend tips, motivation, and support. You can find the link below – it’s a super fun space for sellers like you! A Caution About Trends: Why They Shouldn’t Be Your Whole Strategy Before I dive into the trend strategy, I want to emphasize a key point: trends shouldn’t be your entire business model. While trends bring quick boosts in sales, relying solely on them can create challenges. Etsy’s algorithm favors shops that have a cohesive product selection aimed at a specific audience. If you only sell trendy items, your shop can start to look chaotic, and it may become difficult for the algorithm to understand your target audience. Using trends alone can also create a lot of stress, as you’re constantly searching for the “next big thing.” I’ve seen this lead to burnout among sellers. So, while trends can give you a great boost, it’s important to balance them with a core selection of products aimed at your primary audience. Step 1: Define Your Target Audience and Niche The first step is defining a specific target audience and niche. A strong foundation focused on your ideal customers will guide your shop’s overall look and help create a steady stream of sales. A steady demand for your core products is essential, while trends should act as a boost to your main product line. If your products have a natural demand, you can count on consistent sales. Then, by strategically adding trendy items that complement your shop’s main focus, you’ll get an extra sales boost throughout the year. Having a clearly defined audience and niche means each trend you incorporate will add value rather than clutter to your shop. Step 2: Finding Trends for Your Etsy Business Now that you’ve established a target audience, the next step is finding trends that work for your shop. Etsy offers some fantastic tools, like Alura and eRank, which can help you spot trending keywords and topics. These tools pull data from Etsy’s API, so you’ll be able to identify popular items and emerging trends that other sellers are tapping into. Outside of Etsy-specific tools, Google Trends and Exploding Topics are also great for broader trend research. These resources give you a wider view of trends that are gaining popularity across the internet, which can help you stay ahead of the curve. Remember, the goal is to find trends that align with your shop’s theme and appeal to your target audience. Step 3: Types of Trends to Focus On When it comes to adding trends to your shop, not all trends are created equal. Here are three types to consider: • Seasonal Trends: Seasonal items—such as products for fall, spring, or specific events like weddings—can give your shop a steady boost throughout the year. These trends are reliable and return annually, so you’ll be able to plan for them consistently. • Holiday Trends: Holidays like Christmas, Halloween, and Mother’s Day are excellent times to introduce new items or update existing products with holiday-focused keywords. Since holiday trends occur every year, they’re a sustainable way to increase sales regularly. • Pop Culture Trends: While these trends can bring quick bursts of traffic, they’re often short-lived. Pop culture trends are more “fly-by-night” and may not stick around for long, so use these sparingly and be sure they align with your shop’s focus. Using a mix of seasonal and holiday trends provides stability, while pop culture trends can be fun but should be used carefully to avoid confusing your audience. Step 4: Incorporate Trends in Your Products The last step is incorporating these trends into your product offerings. You can approach this in two ways: 1. Create New Trend-Based Products: For example, if you don’t have any holiday-themed products, consider adding a few items specifically for Christmas or Valentine’s Day. These items can be reused each year, adding seasonal variety to your shop without cluttering it. 2. Retarget Existing Products for Trend Relevance: Take your existing products and make them relevant to an upcoming trend. For instance, if you sell wallets, you could promote them as Father’s Day gifts by updating your keywords and product descriptions to match what buyers are searching for around that holiday. This approach allows you to capitalize on trends without overhauling your shop. These methods give you the flexibility to keep your shop cohesive and maximize trends that make sense for your business. Final Thoughts Adding trends to your Etsy shop can be a game-changer, helping you drive traffic and boost sales. But remember, balance is key. Trends should complement a core business model that’s focused on your target audience. With a strategic approach, you can use trends to increase visibility, attract more buyers, and maximize your revenue while keeping your shop focused and appealing to the right audience. By following this four-step strategy, you’ll be able to harness the power of trends effectively and give your Etsy business the boost it needs. Give it a try and see how it works for you! /episode/index/show/etsyentrepreneur/id/33883497

How I Boost Etsy Sales in December – My Top Tips! 🎉 11/08/2024

How I Boost Etsy Sales in December – My Top Tips! 🎉 👋I teach people how to make 💰 on Etsy with training, support, community & fun! 🎉 Join here for FREE: Boost Your Etsy Sales This Holiday Season with These Powerful Marketing Strategies The end of the year is coming up fast, and I know everyone is looking to make the most of holiday traffic on Etsy. Today, I’m sharing my holiday marketing plan and strategies that’ll help your shop stand out, drive traffic, and capture more sales as we close out the year. Let’s dive in! Standing Out on Etsy During the Holiday Season Etsy is packed with sellers, especially during the holidays, and it can feel like you’re one small fish in a big sea. So, how do you make your shop stand out? I like to think of it as becoming the “fish with stripes”—the one that catches everyone’s attention and keeps them coming back for more. Here’s how you can grab more of that holiday traffic and turn it into sales. Leveraging Etsy’s Built-In Urgency Features One of Etsy’s biggest advantages is its built-in urgency and scarcity badges. These are features Etsy adds automatically, and they’re super effective at prompting customers to buy. Here’s a breakdown of what you can use: • Limited Quantities: When your listing is low in stock, Etsy will display “only X left” on your product page, creating urgency. • Sale Prices: If you’re running a sale, Etsy displays the original price with a strikethrough alongside the discounted price. This visual cue pushes buyers to act fast. • Bestseller Badge: If your item hits a certain sales threshold, Etsy may label it a “Bestseller,” giving it credibility and building trust with new customers. • In-Cart Notifications: Etsy shows potential buyers how many people have an item in their cart, which leverages social proof and makes them think, “If others want it, maybe I should get it too!” Timing Your Promotions for Maximum Impact The best time to start implementing your holiday strategy is early December when traffic to Etsy starts ramping up. Run promotions through the month and even consider keeping them active after Christmas. I’ve noticed that some shoppers will buy after the holidays because they couldn’t complete their shopping in time. By targeting these last-minute buyers, you can catch extra sales after the peak season winds down. Run Effective Holiday Sales A holiday sale is a tried-and-true way to boost sales, but you want to make sure yours stands out from the crowd. Everyone is running discounts, so go bold if you can! Consider discounts of at least 20-25% if it works within your profit margins. Remember, a larger discount can help you sell more volume and might even make up for the price reduction. Get Creative with BOGO Deals If you’re looking to add a twist, try a BOGO (Buy One, Get One) offer. Depending on your profit margins, consider offers like “Buy 2, Get 1 Free” or even “Buy 4, Get 1 Free.” This setup works especially well if you’re offering lower-cost items and can be adjusted easily through Etsy’s marketing tab. Promote your deals in your shop’s announcement section, in your listings, and on social media. For extra visibility, bulk edit your listings to feature the offer at the top. Adding Holiday Value Adds To stand out even more, think about value adds you can offer that your competitors aren’t. Here are a few holiday-specific ideas: • Holiday Bonuses: Add a small bonus item to orders for the holiday season, like a free sample or a small accessory that complements your products. • Christmas Bundles: Create limited-time bundles where buyers get extra items when purchasing certain products. Labeling these as “holiday bundles” makes them feel more special. • Gift Wrapping: Etsy offers a gift-wrapping option that you can add to your listings for an additional fee. If you do this, show what the packaging looks like with a photo, so buyers know it’s worth it. • Upgraded Packaging: During the holidays, most buyers are shopping for gifts, so make sure your packaging is gift-ready. Adding a festive touch to your packaging can make a huge difference and increase buyer satisfaction. Offer Something Extra Adding a little something extra to orders can go a long way. Depending on your niche, this could be a carrying case, a cleaning kit, a care guide, or anything that would enhance the product experience. Small touches like these make your products feel more valuable and encourage buyers to choose your shop over others. Create a Clearance Section One last tip to help clear out old inventory is to set up a clearance section in your shop. Mark items down by 40-50% or more, and you’ll see how fast they start moving. I’ve found this especially useful for returns, items I no longer want to stock, or just products I want to move out to make space for new ones. A clearance section doesn’t only attract bargain hunters but can also lead to full-price sales. Shoppers browsing your clearance items may check out your other products and add those to their cart, too. Wrapping It All Up Incorporate these strategies, and let’s end the year strong! Try out some of these ideas, and see what resonates best with your customers. These holiday tips are also helpful year-round, so keep testing and see what gives your shop that extra boost. If you’re looking for a supportive, fun community to help you grow, consider joining my Etsy Games Community—where we work together to help Etsy sellers succeed. Let’s make this holiday season the most profitable one yet! /episode/index/show/etsyentrepreneur/id/33849392

Is Etsy Finally Stepping Up? BIG Changes 10/31/2024

Is Etsy Finally Stepping Up? BIG Changes 👋 Join The Etsy Games (Free) & Learn how to make more 💰 on Etsy. Get the framework I used to earn over $550,000 on Etsy & win cash prizes!!!🤯 Support, community, motivation & tons of fun!🎉 🚀Get your FIRST or NEXT Sale within 30 Days!🚀 Join here for FREE: https://www.skool.com/etsy-games-8622/about Etsy’s New Holiday Updates: How They Could Impact Your Shop This Season As the holiday season approaches, Etsy is rolling out some big changes, and I’m here to break them down and help you prepare! In this episode, I dive into Etsy’s new holiday ad campaigns, added customer service agents, physical gift cards now available in stores, and the all-important USPS holiday shipping deadlines. These updates could significantly impact your shop, so let’s go over everything Etsy just announced—and I’ll share a few pro tips along the way to help you navigate the season smoothly. Will Etsy’s New Changes Help or Hurt Sellers This Holiday Season? One question on everyone’s mind: will these changes actually help us as sellers? I believe they’re steps in the right direction, but it’s important to understand how they may affect our shops. As an Etsy seller myself, I’m always looking for ways to drive traffic, boost sales, and create an efficient workflow, especially during the holiday rush. New Holiday Ad Campaigns Etsy announced they’re releasing a series of new holiday ad campaigns set to launch at the beginning of November. Expect to see these ads on TV and other mainstream platforms. The goal is to drive more traffic to the site, increase brand awareness, and attract new customers who might not be familiar with Etsy. From my perspective, any marketing Etsy does is a bonus for us sellers, bringing in more potential buyers. I’m excited to see what kind of impact these ads will have on holiday traffic to our shops! Hundreds of New Customer Service Agents Another big change is Etsy’s plan to add hundreds of customer service agents specifically for the holiday season. We know how important quick and effective support is, especially during high-traffic periods, but there are still questions about whether these agents will be available for both buyers and sellers. While Etsy has made strides, like offering chat support, there’s always room for improvement in response times and assistance for sellers. This holiday season, we’ll see if these new agents make a difference. I think this move is a positive one, especially if it improves the buying experience and helps smooth out any issues that come up with orders and customer interactions. Etsy Physical Gift Cards in Stores One cool new feature Etsy is launching is physical gift cards in retail stores. You may have seen gift card kiosks in stores featuring cards for Walmart, Home Depot, and other major brands—now, Etsy will have its own gift cards on display! While it’s not clear yet which stores will carry these cards, this is a smart way to drive more traffic. New buyers will be introduced to the platform, allowing us to reach an even broader audience. Gift cards also make a great last-minute holiday gift, bringing more people to the site. Important USPS Holiday Shipping Deadlines Of course, we can’t forget about shipping deadlines! USPS has released its recommended deadlines for holiday deliveries, and knowing these dates is critical for Etsy sellers. Here’s a quick rundown: • USPS Ground Advantage: December 18th (set your shop deadline a few days earlier) • USPS Priority Mail: December 19th • USPS Priority Mail Express: December 21st I highly recommend setting your personal shop deadlines a couple of days before each official USPS cutoff. This extra buffer allows time to package and ship orders on schedule. In my shop, I usually post a notice about these deadlines in the announcement section and even in the product descriptions. This creates urgency for buyers to order early, ensuring their gifts arrive in time for the holidays. My Final Tips for Holiday Success on Etsy With all these changes in place, I suggest updating your shop’s announcement section, adding deadline reminders to your listings, and taking full advantage of Etsy’s ad campaigns to boost visibility. These new updates offer more opportunities to attract traffic and reach new customers, and with a little preparation, you can set your shop up for a successful holiday season. As always, if you have any questions, join my free Etsy seller community, The Etsy Games, where we discuss strategies, share tips, and support each other through the highs and lows of running an Etsy business. Let’s make this holiday season the best one yet! /episode/index/show/etsyentrepreneur/id/33709422

STEAL My Etsy Holiday Marketing Sales Plan - Guide Included 10/29/2024

STEAL My Etsy Holiday Marketing Sales Plan - Guide Included 👋 Join The Etsy Games (Free) & Learn how to make more 💰 on Etsy. Get the framework I used to earn over $550,000 on Etsy & win cash prizes!!!🤯 Support, community, motivation & tons of fun!🎉 🚀Get your FIRST or NEXT Sale within 30 Days!🚀 Join here for FREE: 📈Get My Free Etsy Black Friday Playbook here: How to Maximize Your Etsy Sales This Black Friday In my recent podcast episode, I shared a detailed plan to help Etsy sellers make the most out of Black Friday. Here’s a breakdown of my top strategies to drive more traffic and boost your sales during this holiday shopping frenzy. Understanding Your Profit Margin To start, I emphasized the importance of understanding your profit margin. Knowing your margins will help you determine the maximum discount you can offer without taking a loss. I recommend using a tool like Aura’s profit margin calculator for Etsy, which takes the guesswork out of setting profitable sales. Effective Discount Strategies When it comes to setting up discounts, here are the main options I discussed: • Percentage-Off Discounts: A straightforward discount across all items, like 10%, 20%, or 30% off. • Dollar-Amount Discounts: Offer set dollar amounts off, such as $5 or $10, based on total purchases. • Bulk Order Incentives: Encourage customers to buy more by offering discounts on orders of two or more items. These discount options can all be set up easily within Etsy’s marketing tab. Using BOGO and Free Shipping for More Sales I also covered the value of BOGO (Buy One, Get One Free) promotions and free shipping incentives. These options can encourage larger orders, and Etsy even offers settings to apply these automatically for orders over a certain amount. For heavier items, free shipping can be a game-changer that attracts buyers who are put off by high shipping costs. Creating Urgency and Scarcity Two powerful tactics for any sales strategy are urgency and scarcity. Ensure that each promotion has a clear end date to drive urgency, and if possible, include limited quantities to add a scarcity factor. For example, mention that only the first 100 customers will receive a specific discount. These psychological triggers motivate customers to act fast, which is essential during a competitive shopping season. Marketing Your Black Friday Sale Effectively Marketing plays a crucial role in your Black Friday success. Here’s the approach I suggested: • One Week Before: Start with a teaser about the sale to build excitement. • Three Days Before: Send a follow-up with more specific details, including the terms of the discount and end date. • One Day Before: Send a final reminder that the sale is about to start, reinforcing the urgency. • Day of the Sale: Send an early morning announcement, reminding customers that the sale is live. • Three Hours and One Hour Before Ending: Remind customers the sale is almost over to maximize last-minute conversions. If you’re extending the sale through Cyber Monday, continue promoting through the weekend to keep momentum. Pro Tip: Day-After Reminder One of my favorite tips is to send a day-after reminder. Many people may miss the sale due to distractions, so offering a “last-chance” reminder the next day can bring in additional sales from those who couldn’t shop on the sale day. /episode/index/show/etsyentrepreneur/id/33646982

Did Etsy Kill October Traffic? The REAL Cause 10/25/2024

Did Etsy Kill October Traffic? The REAL Cause 👋 Join The Etsy Games (Free) & Learn how to make more 💰 on Etsy. Get the framework I used to earn over $550,000 on Etsy & win cash prizes!!!🤯 Support, community, motivation & tons of fun!🎉 🚀Get your FIRST or NEXT Sale within 30 Days!🚀 Join here for FREE: Did Etsy Kill October Traffic? A Deep Dive into the Podcast Episode Hey there! In my latest podcast episode, I tackled the big question: Did Etsy kill October traffic? There’s been a lot of buzz about this lately, and it’s easy to get caught up in the fearmongering. In this blog post, I’ll break down what I discussed in the episode, covering everything from Etsy’s algorithm changes to unexpected events that impacted sales. Let’s dive in! Etsy Traffic Concerns: October Drop in Traffic Right off the bat, I addressed the main concern: traffic was noticeably down for a lot of Etsy sellers this October. If you’re an Etsy seller, you probably noticed the dip, and I get it—it’s frustrating. But it wasn’t just Etsy sellers who were affected. Many sellers on platforms like eBay, Poshmark, and Mercari reported similar trends. Overview of October Traffic Decline Across Platforms It’s easy to blame Etsy alone, but a broader look at the market shows a trend across different platforms. So, what’s going on? The spotlight fell on Etsy because of a recent update that made changes to their SEO algorithm. Naturally, when sales slow down, it’s human nature to look for a cause—and Etsy’s update became the focus. Impact of Etsy’s Algorithm Change Etsy rolled out an SEO update in October, placing more emphasis on shipping and offering incentives for lower-cost shipping. The update aimed to make search results more relevant and to prioritize listings with better shipping options. But whenever there’s a change to the algorithm, some shops get hit harder than others. And that’s what sparked a wave of “Etsy killed my traffic” claims. Etsy’s Goal: Increasing Purchases Through Algorithm Adjustments I want to set the record straight. Etsy’s not out to kill anyone’s traffic. The goal of any algorithm tweak is to get more buyers to make purchases. Etsy’s changes are about aligning search results with what buyers are most likely to purchase. It’s not about sinking shops; it’s about improving the shopping experience for buyers. Effective SEO Tactics for Etsy and Beyond So, what should you do when Etsy’s algorithm shifts? Don’t try to hack the system. Instead, focus on tried-and-true SEO strategies that work not just for Etsy, but for platforms like Google too. Long-term success comes from using solid SEO tactics—like smart keyword usage and well-structured listings—not from trying to game the system. Importance of Structured Listings and Keywords The secret sauce to succeeding on Etsy, even during traffic dips, lies in data. I talked about how crucial it is to structure your listings with strong keywords. Give the algorithm what it needs: clear, concise, and relevant data. That’s how you make sure your products get seen, no matter what changes are happening behind the scenes. October’s Natural Disasters Impacting Sales One thing that’s not being talked about enough is the role that October’s natural disasters played. We had two major hurricanes that impacted a significant portion of the East Coast, where a large percentage of the U.S. population resides. These hurricanes certainly took a toll on online shopping. It’s hard to think about buying on Etsy when your home is dealing with flooding or wind damage, right? Influence of External Factors on Online Sales Disasters, global events, and local crises all impact online sales. It’s easy to overlook these things when you’re analyzing your Etsy shop’s numbers, but external factors can make a big difference. So, before blaming the algorithm entirely, consider what else might be happening in the world. How to Handle Fluctuating Sales Trends Fluctuations in traffic are a natural part of online selling. If you’ve been in the game for a while, you know sales ebb and flow. The key is knowing how to ride those waves and not getting discouraged when things slow down. My advice? Focus on what you can control—your business, your listings, and your strategy. Focus on Business Improvement During Low Traffic Periods In the podcast, I shared tips on how to use these slow periods to your advantage. Dive deeper into your business and find areas for improvement. Are there ways you can tweak your listings? Is there a new product you can introduce? Use low-traffic times to strategize, so you’re ready to bounce back when sales pick up again. Successful Sellers: Focusing on Actionable Strategies I’ve noticed that the most successful Etsy sellers aren’t spending their time complaining about changes in traffic. They’re busy working on their business. Complaining doesn’t bring in sales—action does. So, stay focused on finding solutions, not on blaming the algorithm. Dealing with Algorithm Changes: A Productive Mindset It’s okay to be aware of changes, but don’t approach them from a mindset of trying to “hack” the system. Instead, see them as opportunities. Knowledge is power, and understanding how updates affect your shop can give you a competitive edge. Use that knowledge to become a better seller and optimize your listings accordingly. Adaptability: Navigating Constant Changes in Online Selling Selling online is all about change. I shared an analogy from “Friends” where they’re moving a couch up the stairs, yelling “Pivot!” You have to be willing to pivot when things shift in the online selling world. Stay adaptable and keep your eye on the bigger picture. Final Thoughts: Controlling What You Can In the end, I don’t think Etsy “killed” traffic. October’s dip was likely a mix of algorithm updates and uncontrollable external factors. My advice is to have a thick skin and focus on what you can control—your shop, your listings, and your approach. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic, so be sure to check out the podcast episode if you haven’t already! And don’t forget to join the Etsy Games for a fun, supportive way to grow your business within a community of like-minded sellers. Thanks for reading, and I hope this gives you a clearer view of what’s really going on with Etsy traffic and how to navigate it! SEO Keywords: Etsy traffic drop, Etsy SEO update, October sales decline, Etsy algorithm change, Etsy seller tips, natural disasters impacting sales, online selling trends, successful Etsy strategies, Etsy SEO tactics, improving Etsy sales, Etsy Games community. /episode/index/show/etsyentrepreneur/id/33612422

How To Force Your Etsy Shop To Grow Faster (Full Training) 10/22/2024

How To Force Your Etsy Shop To Grow Faster (Full Training) 👋 Join The Etsy Games (Free) & Learn how to make more 💰 on Etsy. Get the framework I used to earn over $550,000 on Etsy & win cash prizes!!!🤯 Support, community, motivation & tons of fun!🎉 🚀Get your FIRST or NEXT Sale within 30 Days!🚀 Join here for How to Grow Your Etsy Business Using the Rule of 200 If you’re an Etsy seller struggling to grow your business, you’re not alone. Many Etsy sellers feel like they’re spinning their wheels, wasting time on unproductive tasks, and not seeing the traffic or sales they want. In my latest podcast episode, I dive deep into a strategy I call the “Rule of 200”—a daily framework that will help you focus your time, grow your shop, and drive more sales. This strategy isn’t easy, but most things worth achieving aren’t. By implementing the Rule of 200 consistently, you’ll have a clear path to reaching your Etsy goals faster. Let me walk you through it. The Problem: Wasting Time on Unproductive Tasks One of the biggest issues Etsy sellers face is spending time on things that don’t really move their business forward. Whether it’s obsessing over small details or getting caught up in the wrong areas, many sellers fail to focus on what truly matters: getting more listings up, optimizing old ones, and promoting your shop. Time is precious, and the Rule of 200 will help you organize your efforts strategically. What Is the Rule of 200? The Rule of 200 is simple: you’re going to dedicate 200 minutes a day to specific activities that will help grow your Etsy shop. If that sounds like a lot, don’t worry—I break it down into manageable chunks, and you can always scale it to fit your schedule. The key is consistency. The rule is divided into two parts: 100 minutes on new listings and 100 minutes on old listings and marketing. Part One: Spending 100 Minutes on New Listings To grow your Etsy shop, you need to keep adding new listings. This isn’t just about throwing up random products; it’s about being strategic. Here’s how I recommend breaking down these 100 minutes. Step One: 20 Minutes on Product Research The first 20 minutes should be spent researching new products to list. Use tools like Alura, eRank, or even Google Trends to identify what’s selling well in your niche. Don’t just rely on intuition—do the research to make informed decisions. Look for trending keywords, analyze competitors, and find gaps in the market you can fill. Step Two: 20 Minutes Reviewing Shop Listing Stats Next, spend 20 minutes reviewing your shop stats. Which listings are bringing in traffic? What’s making sales? Your stats give you valuable insights into what’s working and what isn’t. If certain keywords or products are driving traffic, lean into that by creating similar listings. Step Three: 60 Minutes Creating New Listings The bulk of your time should be spent on actually creating those new listings. This includes writing descriptions, adding keywords, and taking high-quality photos. Don’t rush this part! You’ve already put in the research—now make sure your listings reflect that work by giving them the best chance to succeed. Part Two: Spending 100 Minutes on Old Listings and Marketing The second half of the Rule of 200 focuses on improving existing listings and marketing your shop. Step One: 40 Minutes Improving Old Listings Go through your old listings and see what’s underperforming. Start by sorting your listings by lowest traffic or sales. Are the photos clear? Are the keywords optimized? Sometimes, just updating the SEO or adding better images can make a world of difference. Step Two: 60 Minutes on Marketing and Promotion Marketing is essential if you want to scale your Etsy shop. Spend 60 minutes each day on promotion, whether that’s running sales, using social media, or starting an email marketing campaign. You don’t have to do everything at once—focus on one platform to start, like Instagram or Pinterest, and build from there. The Importance of Consistency The Rule of 200 only works if you’re consistent. I get it—200 minutes a day sounds like a lot. But if you can’t commit to that, start smaller. Cut it in half with the Rule of 100 or even 50 minutes a day. The important thing is to be strategic and to work on your business every single day. Overcoming the “I Can’t Do This” Mindset It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking you don’t have enough time, but that’s the very mindset that holds many sellers back. You may not be able to dedicate 200 minutes right away, but start where you can and scale from there. Even a little bit of effort each day will get you closer to your goals than doing nothing at all. Final Thoughts: Stay Strategic and Reach Your Etsy Goals Faster Growing an Etsy business isn’t easy, but with the right framework, it’s 100% possible. The Rule of 200 is designed to help you focus your time on the tasks that matter most—adding new listings, improving old ones, and marketing effectively. Start implementing this strategy today, and you’ll see the difference it can make in your traffic and sales. If you’re ready to take your Etsy business to the next level, tune in to my latest podcast episode for a deep dive into the Rule of 200. Let’s grow your shop together! Keywords: Etsy growth strategy, Rule of 200 Etsy, Etsy sales tips, Etsy listing strategy, grow Etsy business, Etsy success, Etsy marketing, Etsy seller tips, Etsy traffic strategies This blog post is optimized to attract Etsy sellers looking for actionable strategies to grow their businesses, focusing on Etsy growth tips and the Rule of 200 framework to drive consistent progress. /episode/index/show/etsyentrepreneur/id/33571852

Handmade & Beyond Podcast

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