I’ve been completely inundated with requests for Etsy shop critiques recently, so I’ve decided to repost this article that I wrote for Sellers Assisting Sellers a year ago. I plan to write another advice article soon, based on the questions I am most frequently asked. Enjoy!
——————————————-
In the three years I’ve been an Etsy shop owner, I’ve been asked to do a number of shop critiques, and on many occasions, I’ve asked the requester to do a little homework before I spend my time and energy giving a thorough critique. Why? Because I’m a big meanie? Well, perhaps I am, but I also want to help get your shop in the best possible shape. These steps will help you get ready for your critique:
1. A little light reading
I ask that everyone who approaches me for a critique read all of Etsy’s FAQs, Do’s and Dont’s, and Terms of Use first. I know that it seems like a daunting task, but it is all written in very simple, straightforward language, and it won’t take as long as you think. It’s well worth the time. It’s probably not possible to memorize everything in there, but at least you’ll have a familiarity with what is included in Etsy’s policies and guidelines.
2. Fill in all of your shop sections
Make sure that you have a banner and an avatar, a shop announcement, a profile, a shop policies page, shop sections, a message to buyer, and at least a few listings. It’s difficult to evaluate a shop that isn’t complete.
3. A tiny bit more reading
After setting up shop, check out the EtsyWiki for advice to shop owners. There’s a ton of great advice on photos, pricing, and on successful selling.
4. Make improvements to your shop based on what you’ve read
This step might seem obvious, but be sure to use what you’ve learned. You’ll find that improving your shop is a constant iterative process. There’s always more to learn, and there are always ways to improve.
Now that you’ve completed these four steps, you’re ready for a detailed shop critique. Contact the Etsy Mentor of your choice, and we’ll be happy to give you pointers based on our own experiences.
micheledodge
Latest posts by micheledodge (see all)
- White Swarovski Pearls on Long Sterling Silver Ear Wires – Earrings s10e057 - February 28, 2011
- White Swarovski Pearls on Circular Sterling Silver Ear Wires – Earrings s10e056 - February 28, 2011
- Black Onyx on Long Sterling Silver Ear Wires – Earrings s10e054 - February 28, 2011
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
All right then, I’ve gone through those steps, now may I have a critique please? I’m fairly new to etsy (joined in June) but I’ve read many of the Storque articles and forums and have attended several virtual labs. I’ve had two banners and one avatar, written and re-written my editorial portions, used all the available photo space (as much as possible). My only sales have been to people I know and I’d love to have etsy sales from the general public.
Thank you – I appreciate any time you can give me by doing a critique.
Mara