Etsy Teams – How Joining Forces Increases Exposure

Wonder what being part of an Etsy Team or ArtFire Guild can offer you?  HandmadeMarketing.org reader Renaissance M. Austin, found at Etsy’s Raghouse International, say her experience with Etsy Teams have helped with her efforts at local craft fairs and marketplaces, as well as her shop’s promotion.

“The benefits of being a part of an Etsy Team create many different experiences for all members,” Renaissance tells us.  “I know that I’ve learned so much through the California Crafters Club of Etsy (CCCOE).”

Renaissance tells us that from local festivals and vending opportunities, to business tips (such as marketing, promotion ideas, and cross promotion) her involvement with an Etsy Team has been very valuable.

“You should look at your Team as support and not so much as customers,” Renaissance suggets.  “You and all your Etsy Teammates are in the figuring out process together. You will increase visibility as a Team Member.”

Renaissance also tells HandmadeMarketing.org that oftentimes Etsy’s Treasury tool can be overlooked by Teams.  “The Etsy Treasury function is one of the best tools an Etsy Team can use. The goal is to feature each other by making Team Treasuries.  I remember making three Team Treasuries that were featured back to back on the front page all in one weekend!”

As a result, Renaissance says one of the CCCOE soap makers made eleven sales in less than an hour! “I felt really good about that and the Team was happy,” she said.  “We all had something to celebrate that night!”

“So think about joining a team,” Renaissance suggests to other online sellers.  “For us, it’s not much time commitment at all. There are some members who are not active at all and just love to read the information that comes through the emails. Find your niche and do what you can do for the team without any pressure. Once you find a team, ask the contact person questions or address any concerns you may have before joining. Each team is different and some have set rules, so find out what they are before making the commitment.”

Those already involved in an Etsy Team or ArtFire Guild can look to the HandmadeMarketing.org community to increase their reach.  HandmadeMarketing.org reader Lois, from Etsy’s FoxyGKnits, recently submitted an article about using video to promote your Etsy Team.  Another article, “Etsy Team Blogs – Make Blogs Work For Your Team“, highlights Krystal and her Etsy team’s work to utilize blogs in their efforts.

How has connecting with other artists and sellers online helped your sales?  Do you have experience with a Team or Guild that you would like to share with HandmadeMarketing.org?  What advice would you give to a new seller considering joining with others within their selling platform?

Share your ideas with HandmadeMarketing.org.  Our articles are inspired by our readers.  Our goal is to pass along knowledge and create a wealth of good ideas for handmade sellers – and we need your help!  Submit your ideas for how to sell more handmade online.  If we publish your tips, we will link to your shop or blog!