Ety is used by millions of people but is it legit? The online marketplace connects buyers and sellers of vintage goods, handmade items, and craft supplies.
Is Etsy legit?
Etsy is a trusted marketplace for both sellers and buyers. Having started in 2005, almost 81.9 million buyers have purchased goods through it. These buyers have bought from the over 4.3 million sellers on the platform.
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How do I know if an Etsy seller is legit?
While Esty does not screen its sellers, it’s keen on customer feedback and can close a shop due to multiple negative reviews.
As a buyer, it allows you to edit your review within 100 days of purchase. This means that you can change your review if you have an issue with the goods within that time frame.
However, it’s important to check a seller’s reviews and their shop policies before purchasing. If you have any questions about a product, send the seller a message before buying.
Additionally, Etsy provides a safe payment system through credit card or PayPal. Your card information as a buyer is encrypted and not accessible to the seller hence ensuring safety.
Is Etsy safe for sellers?
Now, Etsy also protects its sellers. First, a seller’s review average is calculated from a period of 12 months.
This means that if you had a few initial problems which caused low ratings, you could eventually have high ratings. The low ratings will not count.
Second, if a buyer posts a picture that the seller feels misrepresents their product, they can hide it. However, this option is restricted to 5-star ratings, which assumedly are from satisfied customers.
In addition, if an Etsy seller determines that a buyer’s review violates Etsy policies, they can request for removal. The Esty platform also features a private messaging option where sellers can contact buyers and deal with their complaints.
Tips for Esty sellers
If you want to get started selling on Esty, here are a few tips to help you.
Do your Research
Market research is essential for any business, including your Etsy business. You must ensure that people need and want to buy your product.
Choose Your Shop Name Wisely
With only 20 characters allowed for an Etsy shop name, you need to get it right. Ensure that the name is unique, easy to read and remember, and accurately represents what you are selling. Also, considering that buyers come from all over the world, check for the name’s meaning in other languages.
Take Great Photos
Now, photos greatly influence a potential buyer to click on the product. Take your time to capture incredible photos that highlight your product’s best features.
Optimize for SEO
A significant number of buyers come from internet searches, and your visibility will depend on your SEO optimization.
Provide Outstanding Customer Service
Good customer service will get people to buy and keep coming back. Ensure prompt communication, follow up with your buyers, and respond positively to any complaints.
Market Yourself
Do people know that your shop exists? Make sure they do by marketing yourself on social media platforms. Utilize different social media strategies to boost your sales. Also, make use of Esty shop announcements.
Package like a pro
Once you have closed in on the sale, you need to package your product to make a good impression. Use high-quality packaging that has a creative design. If you have business cards, add them in.
Parting shot
Etsy is a legit platform where you can make a full-time income out of your creativity. Make amazing products, put effort into selling and watch your bank account grow!
