Customer Journey Overview

SEO = Get Found Online - What it is and How it Applies to Etsy

Hey y’all! In this lesson, we’re introducing one of those topics that sounds a little technical—SEO—but I promise, it’s just a fancy way of saying “helping people find your stuff online.”

Whether you’re new to selling or just want to get your beautiful creations in front of more people on Etsy, learning a little SEO goes a long way!

What is SEO (Search Engine Optimization)?

SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization. That’s just a big term for making your shop and listings easy to find—whether it’s on Google, Etsy’s own search bar, or even Pinterest.

Think of it this way:
You know how, when you’re looking for a new recipe, you type something like “easy chocolate cake” into Google? SEO is how websites (and Etsy shops!) show up in those results.

Why Does SEO Matter for Etsy Sellers?

• More Eyes on Your Products: The better your SEO, the more likely your wreaths, crafts, or digital goodies are to pop up when someone searches.

• Free Traffic: Good SEO means people find you without having to run ads or post non-stop on social.

• Etsy’s Search Loves SEO: Etsy has its own little search engine, and it LOVES helping shoppers find exactly what they’re looking for. Your job? Make it easy for Etsy to connect your shop to the right folks!

How Does SEO Work on Etsy?

Etsy looks at a few key things when showing search results:

1. Keywords:

   • These are the words your customers type when searching for something.

   • Example: “sunflower wreath,” “teacher gift mug,” “personalized door hanger.”

2. Listing Titles:

   • Use clear, descriptive titles that include your best keywords right up front.

   • Example: Instead of “Summer Welcome,” try “Summer Sunflower Wreath for Front Door.”

3. Tags:

   • Etsy lets you add tags to each listing. Use all 13!

   • Think of every way someone might search for your item (colors, occasion, style).

4. Descriptions:

   • Etsy does look at your product descriptions, so include those keywords naturally.

   • Example: “This farmhouse sunflower wreath is perfect for your summer front porch décor.”

5. Categories & Attributes:

   • Fill these out completely—Etsy uses them to match your listings to searches.

Easy SEO Steps for Etsy Beginners

1. Brainstorm What Your Buyer Would Type:

   • If you were shopping for your own wreath, what would YOU search?

   • Ask friends what they’d type, too!

2. Update Titles, Tags, and Descriptions:

   • Sprinkle those keywords in, but keep it natural—no robot talk!

3. Don’t Stress Perfection:

   • SEO is a work in progress. You can always tweak your listings as you go.

   • Test different keywords to see what brings in views.

Tip:
Use Etsy’s search bar to start typing a product name and see what suggestions pop up—those are real keywords people use!

Start Small & Take Action

Look, SEO might sound intimidating, but it’s really about helping your perfect customer find you. Don’t let the techy talk scare you off! Start by updating ONE listing with better keywords and tags, and watch what happens. Little changes add up, y’all!

Photography Basics: Using Your Phone

Photography Basics: Lighting Tips

Photography Basics: Editing

Edit Photos on Phone Using Lightroom

In this video quickly learn how I edit photos for my Etsy shop or social media using the Lightroom app. You can download the app from your app store on your phone. Use the free version.

Instructions are for iPhones but I’m sure it’s available on Android.

Social Media Basics: Why Social is Important
(Even if You're Introverted)

Hey y’all! Let’s be honest—social media can feel a little overwhelming, especially if you’re an introvert or you just prefer your own creative bubble. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to be “on” all the time to grow your business online. Social isn’t just about going viral or being the loudest in the room. It’s about making real connections with real people who want what you offer.

Why Social Matters:

• Visibility: Social media is where your audience hangs out—if you want to be found, you’ve got to be where they are!

• Relationship Building: People buy from those they know, like, and trust. Social gives you the chance to show the real, everyday YOU, not just your products.

• Learning & Inspiration: You’ll learn so much from your community and others in your niche—new trends, what people want, and where you can shine.

• Control Your Story: Even small, quiet brands can make a big impact. You get to tell your story your way.

For My Fellow Introverts:
You don’t need to share everything. Start with what feels natural—maybe it’s sharing a quick tip, a pretty photo, or just cheering on someone else’s post. The more you do it, the easier it gets!

Tip: Batch your content when you’re feeling up to it, then schedule posts to go out while you’re off doing your thing.

Remember, it’s not about being perfect or performing—it’s about showing up, however that looks for you. Every post is a chance for someone to discover you and what you love!

Social Media Basics: Choosing the Platform that Fits your Life

You’ve heard “be everywhere!”—but let’s be real, nobody’s got time for that (especially busy business owners and mamas). Instead, let’s pick the platform that works for you, not the other way around.

How to Choose Your Platform:

1. Where is Your Audience?

   • Younger folks? Maybe Instagram or TikTok.

   • Creative community? Pinterest.

   • Looking to build a network? Facebook Groups or LinkedIn.

2. What Feels Easiest for You?

   • Love quick tips and photos? Instagram’s your jam.

   • Enjoy teaching or longer demos? YouTube or Facebook Live.

   • Hate being on camera? Pinterest or sharing pre-recorded videos is a great option.

3. What Fits Your Lifestyle?

   • Short bursts when you have a minute? IG Stories or Facebook Stories.

   • Want to set and forget? Pinterest lets you schedule in advance.

Tip:
It’s better to be consistent on ONE platform than to fizzle out on five. Start small and grow when you’re ready!

Give yourself permission to not do it all. Choose what works for you, your family, and your season of life. That’s how you’ll stick with it!

Social Media Basics: Behind-the-Scenes vs. Polished Content

Y’all, here’s a little secret: people love seeing the “real” side of your business just as much (sometimes more!) than the picture-perfect posts. The good news? You don’t have to pick one or the other. Let’s talk about blending behind-the-scenes with those polished, pretty moments.

What’s the Difference?

• Polished Content:

  • Your best photos, finished products, graphics, styled shots—these are great for your main feed, shop listings, or Pinterest.

• Behind-the-Scenes (BTS):

  • Sneak peeks of your workspace, supplies, packing orders, your pet “helping” in the studio, or even your coffee break!

  • Stories, Reels, or quick lives are perfect for these.

Why Both Matter:

• BTS builds trust and makes you relatable—folks want to see who’s behind the brand.

• Polished content shows your skill and inspires confidence in your product.

• Together, they make your brand approachable and professional.

Tip:
Don’t overthink it! A quick phone pic of your messy table or a short video of you prepping an order gives folks a peek into your world—and that’s what they remember.

You don’t have to be a social media superstar to build a following. Just mix in a little bit of “real life” with your best work. You’ll attract people who love YOU for who you are.