Are you participating in any Etsy Teams? For a shop owner this is an important step towards success on Etsy. There are thousands of Teams in the “Community” area, all with their own distinct purpose. Sellers (and buyers) can find support, information, good causes, and more- all by joining Teams!
Finding Answers
In 2011 Etsy merged the Forums into Teams, meaning you have to join each pre-set Forum Team in order to comment or post. Simply click on each Forum category (Site Help, Ideas, etc.) and join any except “Announcements,” which is an Admin-only team. Here you can find advice about any Etsy topic with a quick search. Just be careful not to post information about specific transactions in the Forums and Teams.
There are also non-Forum Teams that serve as information hubs for sellers. Whether you need a general shop critique, social media advice, or help with SEO, there is a group for you. Remember to observe the rules you agree to when becoming a member, and express your appreciation when you get the answers you were seeking.
Extra Tip: Anyone can start a Team, so create your own if you don’t find the one you want!
Staying Informed
Teams are the best place for updates on new Etsy features, upcoming changes, and other relevant information. Check your Forum and non-Forum Teams often to stay in the loop. There you’ll find discussions on current topics as well as resources to adapt to any changes to the site. Etsy sellers are very opinionated, so there are threads about every subject imaginable!
Promoting Your Shop
Many, many promotions Teams exist on Etsy. This is the appropriate place to market your items (not the Forums!), and there are often fun “themed” threads to post in. A quick search for “promotion” on the Teams page yields an amazing 1,827 results! As long as you abide by the individual Team rules they are a great way to draw traffic to your listings and shop. You can also get advice about promoting your shop elsewhere on Teams. Social media, blogging, and marketing groups provide valuable information in a friendly setting.
Extra Tip: To include that little box with a listing photo and description in promotional threads, simply copy and paste the item’s URL (the link of text at the top of each web page) in the text box and it will appear when you post.
Discovering Local Sellers
Almost every city or region has a Team! Join these groups to meet and connect with other local sellers in your area. Local Teams can also let you know about craft shows, Etsy events, and deadlines for all kinds of applications. Some of the promotional Teams are even geared towards regional sellers! Etsy is a huge marketplace, so finding local groups can help you feel more grounded in your crafty or vintage business.
Supporting Charitable Causes
There are lots of Teams that help raise awareness and funds for a variety of causes. From supporters of animal rescues to makers of eco-friendly products, there is a Team for every charitable interest. If you already donate a portion of sales to charity, check out the groups on Etsy and join one that fits your passion. Here you will meet similar sellers who may also have some great advice for you!
Running an online shop is made much easier with the proper resources. Etsy Teams can help you learn the ropes, maintain your shop, and network within a supportive community setting.
What Teams have you joined on Etsy? (comment below)
By Rebecca George (Purple and Lime)
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Thank you for writing this post. I am still trying to learn all of the things that go into running a successful Etsy shop. Someone had mentioned Teams, but I have not really been able to find out exactly what they are. This article did a great job explaining. Can’t wait to find some great teams to join.
Thanks so much for the great review. Yours is by far the most informative and insightful of the dozens I’ve come across online. I really enjoy the fact that you get answers from Leica in regards to the many questions some of us have about the camera. No other review site does this and it elevates your article from the personal opinion pieces to journalistic credibility. Also I liked that you have the few obscure tips at the end, again something that all the others left out. With Erwin Putts analytical wryness and your photography based inside knowledge I find myself well covered from here on out.
I have tried the Art team, but don’t feel I am getting any traffic from it. I did it for a month.
My items are completely hand done and I do many art forms including encaustic, calligraphy, photography. I just don’t now what team would be a good fit.