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Etsy is a wonderful place. You can setup your own shop, customize it, fill it with your creations and people discover you.
Craft shows are wonderful events. You setup your own boutique space, make it yours, fill it with your creations and people come to see.
The thing is that it’s on you to promote yourself. Yes, Etsy promotes itself to the world. Show promoters advertise a craft show is taking place. People visit both of them to buy handmade goods.
But if you don’t promote yourself, you’re leaving a lot up to chance. Rather than twiddling your thumbs waiting for someone to make a purchase or spending your time unhappy that you haven’t sold more, use these tips to stand out.
- Create and mail postcards: people enjoy getting physical mail (as long as it isn’t a bill) and this is your opportunity to make a statement that says ‘I think you should come see me.’ Whether it promotes an event or simply your online shop, this is a great touch to reach out to past customers.
- Send e-mail: one of my personal favorites is an email I get from Nutmeg Designs about upcoming events. They tell me about the event, but then add in a bit about what else is happening in the area or a short update about their studio. There’s a delicate balance to be struck in advertising yourself – don’t send too often and don’t get too long-winded. It’s a great touch and many email services are free (MailChimp) up to a certain number of addresses.
- Develop multiple sales outlets: your business will thank you. Putting all of your eggs in one basket (etsy) is a recipe for disappointment. All strong businesses have multiple revenue streams. When one goes flat, the others help carry you through thin times.
- Cross promote: you absolutely should be trying to get your etsy customers to come to your open studio event and vice versa. You’re creating one monster mailing list and letting your customer decide when and where they’re going to buy.
- Social media: it’s free. And if you’re smart about how you handle it, it can be a boon for your business. You’ll want to set some limits. Maybe say 10 minutes per day. Or only post to Facebook once a day or 3 times per week.
- The Go-withs: The things that ‘go with’ the purchase. If I’m buying handmade as a gift, I really want to have a business card or something to give with the item. Do you make sure there’s a little bio or statement with your contact information on it? Make sure you have the pieces that promote you that go with the item. Maybe it includes the brick-and-mortar shops that sell your work or your upcoming craft show schedule.
Your past customer is always your best future customer. Always. At least a more reliable one and easier to reach. Show them that they’re appreciated.
How do you promote yourself?
