Writing for an Online Audience: How-To

FancyFreeMe

Story by FancyFreeMe

Published on Feb 25, 2008 in Seller Handbook

Photo by peasap on flickr

Hi! My name is Deanna Roux, aka FancyFreeMe on Etsy. My last job was for a corporate communications department, in employee communications. I was assistant editor for an employee magazine and online publisher for an employee intranet.  My experience granted me some valuable knowledge on the difference between writing for a print publication and an online audience. I have some helpful information to share that I think you can use for writing up shop listings and on your blog.

Let me begin by saying this – I’m not done learning.  Times change, technology changes, and people’s needs change. Things are always evolving and you have to keep up if you want to stand out.

With that said, here’s where we were last I checked.

What’s in it for me?
People have little time and even less patience.  Readers want to know “what’s in it for me?” in the first few seconds, otherwise they’ll move on. Potential customers want to connect with you through your writing. Wow them with your art, but grab them with your voice first.  And don’t wait until the end of your blog post to present a call to action (e.g. sign up, join, visit me, etc.).


[bowl by vesselsandwares]

Headlines and Titles

  •  Shorter is better
    • Susie’s Sassy Salsa NOT Sue Roberts Homemade Recipes Hot and Spicy Salsa – Hot
  • Words that pop
    • Mohair Harry’s Skullcap NOT Black Hat With Hair-Like Fringe Around the Edge
  • Assign attributes
    • Juicy Gemstone Choker NOT Watermelon Tourmaline, Ruby, Peridot, 14K Gold Filled 16” Necklace
  • Work a rhyme
    • October 25, Blossoms Alive NOT My Garden is Still Blooming on October 25

KISS – Keep it Simple and Short
Yes, you need details, but don’t overwhelm the reader right to the nearest exit.  Reserve space for sharing your personal views, techniques and inspirations.  Go back and read what you wrote.  Remove big words only used to impress and redundant information.  Don’t drown your clever cut of meat with too much gravy.


[exemplary description by vesselsandwares]

Speed Bumps
It’s your job to slow the online eye.  Give your reader something to stumble upon.  Instead of using a large block of text, break it up.  Use bullets to make a list easier to read.  Use caps and/or boldface to make subtitles in your post pop.  The use of whitespace will give the eye a break and it’ll make your blurb easier to read.

Write As If Your Audience Doesn’t Know Anything
You are the expert of what you create.  You know the size, length, and dimensions.  You know the materials and components.  Your words should tell the story your photos can’t.  Don’t make them search.  A shopper wants to know if it’s sterling silver or plated; cotton or rayon; and porcelain or ceramic.

Things You Need

  • Word Processing Application: Type up your entries in Word or another application — it just helps to have an active spellchecker.
  • Camera: a digital camera is best for an easy snap and post.
  • Time: Don’t fake it — if you don’t have the time just put down the basics in a draft and fill it out later.

Things That Would Help

  • PFF (Proofreading Friend Forever): Have someone you trust take a peek for typos and general comprehension.
  • Photo Editor: Photoshop, Google’s free Picasa, or something like it — make your photos go from sloppy snapshots to pretty pics.

Ultimately, the challenge is not “writing.”  The challenge is “taming the writer within.”  So here’s your whip and here’s your chair. Now go tame!

So what do you think? Are you up for the challenge?  Comment below with any tips you have to share!

For more information on writing for your shop, check out these helpful articles. 

Discuss: 250 comments

250 comments

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  • PoPkO

    PoPkO says:

    deanna, this is helpful to me. i find that i want to write in my blog and love advice on how to grab people right away. i will definately be reading and re-reading this when i make my new postings! heres the blog that i will be improving thanks to you! http://popko.blogspot.com

    4 years ago

  • heidiburton

    heidiburton says:

    This is fantastic! Will refer your advice when blogging, and describing items in my shop. Thanks a lot Deanna!

    4 years ago

  • bombalurina

    bombalurina says:

    In terms of blogging and general communications, this is unbeatable advice everyone should heed -- I just don't totally agree with the titling aspect based on my experience with Google, not based on any experience as someone who reads copy. I hate to be a contrarian pain, but one issue that I know I struggle with is the issue of good writing versus good SEO. SE's like all the ugly descriptors like "14K gold fill, watermelon tourmaline chain necklace" more than "Julie necklace" and they really like them in titles and headlines, which forces me to do some icky things I don't like with my titles.

    4 years ago

  • SabreStash

    SabreStash says:

    Thanks for doing this, it should help a lot of people including me. :o)

    4 years ago

  • TwoObsessed

    TwoObsessed says:

    Great article! Thanks for sharing your tips! :o)

    4 years ago

  • artesprit

    artesprit says:

    nice article deanna! nice to see you popping up here!

    4 years ago

  • BettysJewelry

    BettysJewelry says:

    Thanks for your help - it was informative, friendly and gave me a sense of who you are. You told me upfront 'what's in it for me.' Wonderful use of my time.

    4 years ago

  • papapots

    papapots says:

    Ditto what bombalurina said.

    4 years ago

  • Corpseknit

    Corpseknit says:

    Fabulous article! This is useful information for every seller.

    4 years ago

  • Glory2727

    Glory2727 says:

    Taking the time to write this article is a blessing for those who read each.Thank you for sharing. Good work always shows through and you will be blessed for it.

    4 years ago

  • wishupon

    wishupon says:

    Fantastic! Thank you.

    4 years ago

  • wittyworkshop

    wittyworkshop says:

    terrific article, thanks!!

    4 years ago

  • crazyfunkycool

    crazyfunkycool says:

    congrats! some great advice here too. i'm gonna check out picassa... my photos look like snapshot sometimes, I'd really like to improve them for a better presentation. :c ) Thanks!

    4 years ago

  • candypegram

    candypegram says:

    totally believe in keeping it short..takes the pressure off of the writer as well... not having to sit down and write an article everyday.

    4 years ago

  • waterfall

    waterfall says:

    Darn good! Now I gotta rewrite it all....whaaa

    4 years ago

  • FluffyFlowers

    FluffyFlowers says:

    Good tips. I've had an article published in the Storque and I used a few of these :)

    4 years ago

  • tnkgrl

    tnkgrl says:

    Thanks so much!! It truly helped me :)

    4 years ago

  • StartsandFits

    StartsandFits says:

    Fabulous!

    4 years ago

  • tinnaeik

    tinnaeik says:

    This is great advice! I actually started naming all my paintings after the color they are. Like White, White I and White II since they aren't really of anything. But then I started thinking and came up with actual names that I think make them more interesting. I have to check on my descriptions though, they still aren't good:S

    4 years ago

  • TaraTaraTara

    TaraTaraTara says:

    I love Microsoft's Picture It Platinum Edition Home publishing software! It's super user friendly.

    4 years ago

  • TaraTaraTara

    TaraTaraTara says:

    I also use the FREE WORLD WIDE DOWNLOAD called Irfanview... it's got a squished red teddy bear Icon. You can open your oversized images, go to REDUCE and the SHARPED and resave! It takes only SECONDS to do!!! I reduce all my digitals with Irfanview!!

    4 years ago

  • karabu

    karabu says:

    These are great tips for grabbing and keeping your reader once you have them, but I have to agree with bombalurina on her points too. A bla, keyword rich title will help your readers find you better in the first place. As far as titles go, we need to remember that we're writing those not just for the client, but also for the search engines (in and off of Etsy).

    4 years ago

  • Studio410

    Studio410 says:

    Thanks! I find writing about what I make the hardest.

    4 years ago

  • barbjensen

    barbjensen says:

    Keywords in the tags can cover the search engine issue. I agree that appealing titles are really useful. the example, 'darn cute pink bowl' is just great! Simple and expressive of the character of the piece and the maker. The 'ugly' descriptions can go at the end of the appealing description to help buyers getr all the info they may need.

    4 years ago

  • lindsaykristine

    lindsaykristine says:

    Thanks, Deanna! Excellent advice, especially for a newbie like myself. Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge.

    4 years ago

  • susyluxe

    susyluxe says:

    thank you!! this was a really well-written article, and i have learned a lot. i'll definitely use this info next time i'm writing my descriptions. xx susy

    4 years ago

  • BeanersBandanas

    BeanersBandanas says:

    Great article. The info is helpful and I will use it as I post new pics. Thanks much!

    4 years ago

  • Beejoyfulquilts

    Beejoyfulquilts says:

    Thank you so much. This is a new experience to me and I needed this.

    3 years ago

  • yellowwalls

    yellowwalls says:

    Thanks! great tips!

    3 years ago

  • silkbagsntreasures

    silkbagsntreasures says:

    Deanna, Thanks so much for this wonderful article. I'll use your advice to rework my descriptions so that folks can really "feel" the silk in my bags! :)

    3 years ago

  • JulieWebb

    JulieWebb says:

    Thanks Deanna! I'm about to launch into writing my profile, I'll have your wise advice in mind for sure! ;-)

    3 years ago

  • Pinache

    Pinache says:

    just getting started. Your article is sending me in the right direction, Thank you!

    3 years ago

  • Toomanytreasures

    Toomanytreasures says:

    I just love your tips Thanks for the great info!

    3 years ago

  • TrixieAndBeever

    TrixieAndBeever says:

    Many thanks for the advice! If anyone wants to really dive into online writing tips, I've run across copyblogger.com, and it seems helpful if taken in small doses.

    3 years ago

  • temno

    temno says:

    Great advice! REally needed this, thanks!

    3 years ago

  • RokGear

    RokGear says:

    here is a fyi tip for spellcheck if you do not have a PFF or Word Processing Application and you use OE Windows mail box. you can lay out your post in e.mail and e.mail it to yourself Outlook has a spell checker to correct what it sends.

    3 years ago

  • MonasMane

    MonasMane says:

    I really have to go back and do some major housecleaning. These articles are so helpful!

    3 years ago

  • Sun2Create

    Sun2Create says:

    Great article. I will need to re-write some things in my shop.

    3 years ago

  • banyantreeclothing

    banyantreeclothing says:

    This is very helpful. I know that people are impatient (myself included) when it come to being online. I think a good balance is what's important. I am on the other end and feel I don't describe my items enough, so I will be working on that. Thanks!

    3 years ago

  • craftsbyposie

    craftsbyposie says:

    Very helpful! Thanks Deanna!

    3 years ago

  • JunoArt

    JunoArt says:

    This is total great, now where do I find info on how to get people reading, I write it all for myself since no one's ever read my blog?

    3 years ago

  • pacificadesigns

    pacificadesigns says:

    I better get to work on my shop! Thanks for the helpful info!

    3 years ago

  • ArtbyCarolSweetwood

    ArtbyCarolSweetwood says:

    Wow, good advise. I even think my user name is boring now. I guess after someone actually clicks on your site we should get their attention and peak their interest.

    3 years ago

  • lissilulu

    lissilulu says:

    Thank you!

    3 years ago

  • marciejanedesigns

    marciejanedesigns says:

    Great info, thanks for the help!

    3 years ago

  • artbysusmitha

    artbysusmitha says:

    Thank you for all the information. It truly is helpful! :)

    3 years ago

  • wireknot

    wireknot says:

    thanks

    3 years ago

  • BethanyOgle

    BethanyOgle says:

    Thanks for the article. Makes me rethink a few things.

    3 years ago

  • SimplySusanJewelry

    SimplySusanJewelry says:

    Thanks for these great tips. Im a newby to etsy and I can use all the help.

    3 years ago

  • smilingbluedog

    smilingbluedog says:

    This article is so helpful! I appreciate the tips. I waste a lot of time trying to write descriptions, and touching up my bio. Thanks for taking the time to help your fellow Etsy neighbours. :)

    3 years ago

  • Hatdiva

    Hatdiva says:

    Brilliant and totally to the point!

    3 years ago

  • jcgrace

    jcgrace says:

    Wow you wrote this almost a year ago and you're still getting great feedback! I will surely take all this info into consideration when working on my listings. Thanks.

    3 years ago

  • KelseysKreations
  • Silverdustis

    Silverdustis says:

    I'm starting to get it! Thanks to you.

    3 years ago

  • anne48

    anne48 says:

    Thanks! I think I'm getting it.

    3 years ago

  • alfastudio

    alfastudio says:

    Thanks for the great info !!!

    3 years ago

  • magicmuse

    magicmuse says:

    This is perfect timing for me. I am preparing to open a shop and doing as much research as I can before I upload my first designs, profile, avatar, and policies. Just writing those seems a daunting task! It really is a lot to take into consideration when I look at how encompassing Etsy is, and I want to make the most of it from the beginning; minimizing mistakes I could so easily make. This really helps! Thank You!

    3 years ago

  • artworksbycathyj

    artworksbycathyj says:

    Thank you! I worry that I don't say enough when actually less is better! That takes a little stress out of listing!

    3 years ago

  • jooliciousjewelry

    jooliciousjewelry says:

    Your advise is great, thanks! Less is more.

    3 years ago

  • ApplewoodHandwovens

    ApplewoodHandwovens says:

    Thank you, good simple suggestions and guidelines.

    3 years ago

  • goodegear

    goodegear says:

    Thank you for advise!

    3 years ago

  • dandelionland

    dandelionland says:

    Thanks! Very helpful information.

    3 years ago

  • DecoupagebyToni

    DecoupagebyToni says:

    Thanks so much, this is so helpful. I still haven't had a sale and I'm wondering why. I'll look at everything again. Advice from anyone who has done this awhile is appreciated.

    3 years ago

  • norakaren

    norakaren says:

    thanks I really apreciate the hints...

    3 years ago

  • themefragrance

    themefragrance says:

    Helpful to many people!

    3 years ago

  • paulinesfashions

    paulinesfashions says:

    Thanks so much, Deanna. I really liked the picture you gave as a buyer 'entering my home'. Such good advice and ideas - lots to consider and re-do.

    3 years ago

  • AnuraDesignStudio

    AnuraDesignStudio says:

    Thanks for the whip and chair. It's so easy to get carried away. Often forget to step into the buyer's shoes.

    3 years ago

  • ReneeRobbins

    ReneeRobbins says:

    great tips- thank you!

    3 years ago

  • exquisiteaccessories

    exquisiteaccessories says:

    Thanks so much Deanna, I will be going right through my text straight, away you have given me some ideas to clean out my on line house cheer's :)

    3 years ago

  • moderncard

    moderncard says:

    Great advice. Thank you!

    3 years ago

  • chARiTyelise

    chARiTyelise says:

    yea-- Jeanette is a master! i am definitely guilty of carrying on and on at times, i think i am inspired to go and pair down my descriptions. a lot of blah blah blah.

    3 years ago

  • knottysleeves

    knottysleeves says:

    Great article. As a writer/editor in my "day job" I can't emphasize enough how important it is to spellcheck AND proofread your listings! It's all about putting forth a professional image. When I see a listing with multiple typos and grammatical errors, it makes me wonder how "detail-oriented" the seller is when making their items. ;-)

    3 years ago

  • artnomadix

    artnomadix says:

    Wonderful to have this kind of info feedback from a buyer ! Thankyou

    3 years ago

  • TownCountryJewelry

    TownCountryJewelry says:

    Good food for thought...lots of good points....thanks for writing this!

    3 years ago

  • bijougirldesigns

    bijougirldesigns says:

    Thanks for the tips! All good reminders!

    3 years ago

  • bittersweetdesign

    bittersweetdesign says:

    great info - thanks for sharing your expertise!

    3 years ago

  • sakizome

    sakizome says:

    This is brilliant. So helpful. Thanks!

    3 years ago

  • TheNightjar

    TheNightjar says:

    i have marked this article for sure! thanks for the helpful advice and tips

    3 years ago

  • butterflykissforyou

    butterflykissforyou says:

    Thanks for the article. It has been very helpful. I'll probably have to go through my things and rethink some of them.

    3 years ago

  • ideasthatbloom

    ideasthatbloom says:

    Great advice! I'll be renaming some of my items with catchy short titles. You can tell the sellers who have sold at other online sites, because they basically use "tags" in their titles. I like the short and sweet ones. Thanks!

    3 years ago

  • esmeraldadesigns

    esmeraldadesigns says:

    haha!!! Very good advice ::esmeraldadesigns goes to find whip and chair:::

    3 years ago

  • 18ontheAlley

    18ontheAlley says:

    great tips! thanks!

    3 years ago

  • copperlilly

    copperlilly says:

    Great advice!

    3 years ago

  • amandarobbins

    amandarobbins says:

    Awesome article, but I have to definitely disagree with the title suggestions. You're not going to sell at all if people don't find you through search engines, including Etsy's. Those titles are prime real estate for search engine optimization (SEO), especially because the title of the item becomes part the page title tag AND is marked with the h1 tag in the page. The title and h1 tags are so important, probably one of the most important considerations in SEO right now. Considering etsy embeds the CSS in the pages and uses tables, its even more important to take advantage of those crucial tags since the extra code makes it harder for the search engines to find the relevant content in the page. I always like to put the user's (or in this case, buyer's) needs first when possible, so I agree about keeping things short and clear, but you can't fulfill their needs if they can't find your product. As a buyer I like cute names for products as well, but you shouldn't skip describing the item entirely. There is no reason you can't say "The Juliet - peridot & 14k gold bridal necklace" which would be a lot more helpful to a buyer searching for and scanning your pages for items they want. Etsy is unique in that the search default ranks by "most recent" listings, which is why relisting is important since it keeps your items higher in the list, but outside search engines are more likely to rank by relevancy than by what's recent. Balance is the key!

    3 years ago

  • yaffaknit

    yaffaknit says:

    I am so thankful to Etsy training team - after all my uni learning I still teachable - that's encouraging :) So helpful! Thanks!!!

    3 years ago

  • Gwendolynsdesign

    Gwendolynsdesign says:

    THanks! Great tips to keep in mind! KISS - gotta keep that on my desktop! tHAANKSSSS... opps need spell check!!!! LOL

    3 years ago

  • DreamingPhoenix

    DreamingPhoenix says:

    Excellent article- thank you Deanna! Thanks to Amanda Robbins too. Great info for a newbie like me.

    3 years ago

  • Mozo

    Mozo says:

    Very informative! I am off to check my words.

    3 years ago

  • GoldenSilhouette

    GoldenSilhouette says:

    Thanks so much for this advice...it's exactly what I've been looking for!!

    3 years ago

  • shawndrathea

    shawndrathea says:

    There is so much to learn about online sales!thanks

    3 years ago

  • yaffa

    yaffa says:

    THANKS! go to revise L>>>L...L...

    3 years ago

  • lucymaedesigns

    lucymaedesigns says:

    seriously, thank you!! I always make the title more about contents. But I'm going to revise them in hopes of better grabbing shoppers attention!

    3 years ago

  • pinkiekinch

    pinkiekinch says:

    Very helpful, thanks so much. I am a bit of a Ronnie Corbet sitting in a black leather chair! I have a whip and am ready to tame. Shots for online sales are so much different than print or shop display. It's how you manage the change. My brother in law is a brilliant editor, it's getting his time that's the issue. Thanks so much. Pinkiekinch

    3 years ago

  • particlesofstone

    particlesofstone says:

    amandarobbins has it exactly right--a short catchy title is nice, but functionally we must use words that people will put into search engines to find things like ours. The trick is to find balance so that the titles will be caught by search engines but don't sound like search-engine word-strings. I also don't like that "exemplary description" because it leaves out the exact dimensions of the bowl. I'm a stickler for dimensions. :-) Otherwise, a most helpful article. Thanks!

    3 years ago

  • kindregards

    kindregards says:

    I have a habit of making a short story long so this is definitely helpful advice! I'm going to have to start trying to rewrite...with a bit more "less is more"! :) Thanks!

    3 years ago

  • GracePainter

    GracePainter says:

    This was good for me to read up on. Since I'm pretty new to Etsy, I need all the suggestions I can get. Thanks!

    3 years ago

  • mulberrymoose

    mulberrymoose says:

    great article!

    3 years ago

  • loopylocks

    loopylocks says:

    If I could "KISS" you to say thanks, I would!

    3 years ago

  • ThingsUnseen

    ThingsUnseen says:

    Oh Wow..... with article like this in the end of the day if I do not sell anything on etsy I learned heaps for sure. Thank you very much!

    3 years ago

  • mycountrytreasures

    mycountrytreasures says:

    I am just a beginner at this and this was alot of help. Thank you very much

    3 years ago

  • jmliss

    jmliss says:

    Helpful, thanks -jml

    3 years ago

  • SEOWebDesign

    SEOWebDesign says:

    You are very much on target when you say "People have little time and even less patience. Readers want to know “what’s in it for me?” in the first few seconds, otherwise they'll move on." This is a hard concept to convey to Web site clients who want to talk about themselves all over the first page. That is not what a potential customer is looking for. Each visitor to Web site or an Etsy shop or even one item listing, is looking for a product or service that will solve a problem. That potential customer will quickly move on to the next Web site or Etsy shop, etc. if you do not show within at least 8 seconds how you can solve the problem. It takes organization, planning and a lot of work to get this right but the rewards for your work will be there in more buyers and business. Thanks for saying it succinctly and saying it well.

    3 years ago

  • brownbelly

    brownbelly says:

    thanks for the tips! very helpful indeed!

    3 years ago

  • artdelight

    artdelight says:

    Very true, thank you. I need to set some time aside and do it right.

    3 years ago

  • signsofmylife

    signsofmylife says:

    2 heAds are BeTteR than 1 - thAnK yoU

    3 years ago

  • unemployeddesigner

    unemployeddesigner says:

    Excellent article - I have issues with brevity, so this is good incentive to get over it and shorten the descriptions!

    3 years ago

  • coveredinart

    coveredinart says:

    thank you very much! I immediately re-wrote everything!

    3 years ago

  • FeltandWeave

    FeltandWeave says:

    Now totally confused - all prevoius information has been saying to get key words into title and first line of description to come up in google searches and hopefuully get customers inti your shop - if someone googles for black hat are they going to use the search terms 'mohair harrys skullcap'

    3 years ago

  • ReluctantChameleon

    ReluctantChameleon says:

    Deanna, this was excellent guidance - I'm just setting up my VERY FIRST Etsy shop this week so it's great to learn that clever/cute titles are better (or at least as good as) straight material info - I wasn't sure which to do... Thank you!

    3 years ago

  • virsaq

    virsaq says:

    Thank you sooo much for sharing this. Sometimes's it's just difficult to keep it short and simple..;) but from now I think I will do just that, esp with the title..:D.

    3 years ago

  • moondogtreasures

    moondogtreasures says:

    I love simplicity! Trying hard to KISS!

    3 years ago

  • bazketmakr

    bazketmakr says:

    wonderful tips! thanks so much for sharing them.

    3 years ago

  • twocutedollclothes

    twocutedollclothes says:

    --Excellent!

    3 years ago

  • Crossmyheartjewelry

    Crossmyheartjewelry says:

    Thanks For the article. I started renaming my pieces to actually make it sound more interesting. I still need lot's of help though!

    3 years ago

  • pchickki

    pchickki says:

    Great tips! Thanks so much for sharing

    3 years ago

  • LGReclamation

    LGReclamation says:

    Thank you for taking the time to explain those great tips. it is very helpful . thanks again.

    3 years ago

  • coeurdepierres

    coeurdepierres says:

    I feel a lot better now with my brief descriptions! :) Wonderful article! Thanks!

    3 years ago

  • BewilderknitsGwynne

    BewilderknitsGwynne says:

    Thanks Deanna. I liked the part about using the white space. I have a tendency in real life to run-at-the-mouth. I should take the written format as an opportunity to slow it down and keep it shorter & sweeter!

    3 years ago

  • KempGhaniClothing

    KempGhaniClothing says:

    Thanks for the tips.....I'm new to Etsy and the online shop concept so everything's useful. I'd like to generate more traffic through my shop though as well as being well presented when the buyer gets there! Still, 'every little helps'.

    3 years ago

  • JudiFitzPatrick

    JudiFitzPatrick says:

    Fantastic advice, thanks so much for sharing.

    3 years ago

  • JKistlerStudios

    JKistlerStudios says:

    Thanks for this great article! I always figured that way of titling items was for "other people", but this made me think I can (and should) do it too! So I went through my shop and redid the titles. At first I was hesitant because of a recent article about SEO. But I figured if I saw two identical listings, I would be far more intrigued to check out the item (and artist) for the one with the more creative, less-cluttered title! So now I'm using my descriptions, tags, and shop announcement for SEO as best I can, and made my shop title and item titles a little more interesting. (I probably still need to tweak my descriptions more!) Hopefully it will pay off!

    3 years ago

  • BelladonnasJoy

    BelladonnasJoy says:

    Hi Deanna, Thank you for the excellent, professional advice. Much appreciated!

    3 years ago

  • reTroReVUE

    reTroReVUE says:

    Geez--Thanks! Are there forums where sellers can bounce their descriptions off one another? I Loooooove to proofread and will trade for creative ideas!

    3 years ago

  • Rose442

    Rose442 says:

    Great article less is better!

    3 years ago

  • TurnitoverTreasures

    TurnitoverTreasures says:

    Great article! Thanks for taking the time to share!

    3 years ago

  • joanfrydenlund

    joanfrydenlund says:

    I new and appreciate the great advice. It is a little daunting but I have decided to open the door and then keep improving it. THANK YOU!

    3 years ago

  • JackieMello

    JackieMello says:

    Great tips - thank you so much. I took a class in Information Design in my undergrad degree but I'd forgotten a lot of what I had learned. This is bringing it all back. I'm just starting out on Etsy, and I love to read this blog. What an awesome cooperative community this is!

    3 years ago

  • shepherdsgrove

    shepherdsgrove says:

    I'm new to Etsy and appreciate the advice. Making my descriptions and titles catchy is one of my biggest challenges. Having written a lot of scientific reports in graduate school, where my professors took a red pen to anything other than the facts, makes it difficult now to "flower" up my words. But I shall prevail.

    3 years ago

  • whiteowl

    whiteowl says:

    Thanks for the great advice...very helpful! :) ~Christina

    2 years ago

  • DesignzbyCyndi

    DesignzbyCyndi says:

    This is great advice! As a newcomer to internet selling I have used some of your techniques for my shop. I try to keep things simple but yet inviting. It is important to keep our customers happy and give them the best details and pictures of our handmade designa. It is beneficial to check out other seller's shops to see how they are offering items and learning from each other. Thanks for your help! Cyndi

    2 years ago

  • BBJUD

    BBJUD says:

    Words are not my strong side - so thanks a lot for your generous help !

    2 years ago

  • WATTOonline

    WATTOonline says:

    Thanks for the advice.

    2 years ago

  • ancientfragments

    ancientfragments says:

    Very helpful!

    2 years ago

  • christinstoufflet

    christinstoufflet says:

    This was super helpful! Thanks!

    2 years ago

  • Fruitfulhandproducts

    Fruitfulhandproducts says:

    Thanks a LLLOOOTTT!!

    2 years ago

  • TodoCecilia

    TodoCecilia says:

    thank you so much :D I am new to all this and gobbling it all up :D

    2 years ago

  • Tina669

    Tina669 says:

    Great info, thanks for the help!

    2 years ago

  • ottobone

    ottobone says:

    Sometimes I forget about all of this great advice... thanks for the reminder etsy!!!

    2 years ago

  • evagodeva

    evagodeva says:

    Great advise! Thanks so much! Now I have to go back and do some houscleaning in my store, but as usual, sooo helpful!

    2 years ago

  • CrossStreetPress

    CrossStreetPress says:

    Very 'to the point' and just the advice I need...will now go and amend my shop. Thank you for keeping us all on our toes!

    2 years ago

  • anothertimeantiques

    anothertimeantiques says:

    a little baffled about the short titles versus important keywords for search engines.

    2 years ago

  • MartaWeaverJewelry

    MartaWeaverJewelry says:

    Thanks Deanna, I'm so glad I took the time to read your excellent article! Blessings, Marta

    2 years ago

  • grannyssquare

    grannyssquare says:

    I agree with most of what you said, but, like many others, have questions about the ability of people to find items that just have a cute name vs. key word descriptive titles. Everything else you addressed was great and very helpful.

    2 years ago

  • jenningspiper

    jenningspiper says:

    This article was so very helpful. Sadly I am guilty of many of the do nots. Writing is not my strong suite but I am hopeful that I will improve and this article has brought me just a little bit closer :)

    2 years ago

  • EcoInspired

    EcoInspired says:

    Thank you. Easy to read, helpful tips. I'll have a go with my next listing.

    2 years ago

  • BeadedJewelryBySusan

    BeadedJewelryBySusan says:

    Right on! Excellent advice on writing online. Especially the part about breaking up text, being specific, and keeping it short.

    2 years ago

  • CreationsdeFlorence

    CreationsdeFlorence says:

    Lots of great advice. I see so many Etsyans who have wonderful, short, witty listings. Now need to apply all this to my listings :). Also, getting Photoshop Elements 7 to improve my pix.

    2 years ago

  • SewSpecials

    SewSpecials says:

    Thanks. I tend to be wordy, and I'm still not really up and running because I don't know how to do the pictures. Wish I could afford those Photoshop things! I am a Mac 10.4.11 user.

    2 years ago

  • yasmintoo

    yasmintoo says:

    Thank you, I started off smart and snappy, then forgot to keep it interesting. Extremely helpfu.

    2 years ago

  • bittersweetboo

    bittersweetboo says:

    wow thanx so much! This is probably the best article I've come across yet :)

    2 years ago

  • Mausica

    Mausica says:

    Thank you so much! This was really helpful and gave a little insight as what to do and what not to do. :o)

    2 years ago

  • AuntHattieCollection

    AuntHattieCollection says:

    Great to hear what needs doing!!!

    2 years ago

  • davjack

    davjack says:

    Wow! Thanks so much...this really helped. DJ

    2 years ago

  • eclecticbysari

    eclecticbysari says:

    Thanks for the awesome advice. It's interesting how similar writing for marketing and journalism are. When I studied the latter I would apply a lot of the same logic :)

    2 years ago

  • Kjmakes

    Kjmakes says:

    Cheers this is just what the doctor recommended, for the health of my shop...I will go and try re-write my descriptions.

    2 years ago

  • mammysshop

    mammysshop says:

    I found this to be very helpful!

    2 years ago

  • BigGirlJewelry

    BigGirlJewelry says:

    I spent 20 years in retail, so the last place I want to go EVER is the mall. I do virtually all of my shopping (even groceries) online. My biggest pet peeves as a buyer are spelling errors and poor grammar. These mistakes make sellers look unprofessional and uncaring. I figure if a seller doesn't pay attention to those details, what else are they ignoring?

    2 years ago

  • DalkullanJewelry

    DalkullanJewelry says:

    Many useful ideas! Thanks for the article. I do think giving exact dimensions, and using a title that is SEO friendly is very important, though, as several people have already noted.

    2 years ago

  • pinestreetmakery

    pinestreetmakery says:

    Great tips! Thanks for the information. I will definitely refine my listings and use more spacing. It seems important to give the eyes a break!

    2 years ago

  • ArrayedAndAdorned

    ArrayedAndAdorned says:

    That is great! Thanks!

    2 years ago

  • ScrapHappieAZ

    ScrapHappieAZ says:

    great information I am ready for the challenge, not sure I am able.

    2 years ago

  • PatAdamsArt

    PatAdamsArt says:

    Thanks for taking the time to spell out all this information. It is very helpful

    2 years ago

  • glassymountain

    glassymountain says:

    Thanks for the tip. I am slowly getting my shop ready for a grand opening in September.

    2 years ago

  • BlessedRepublic

    BlessedRepublic says:

    Thank you so much! Very helpful information!Very well put into words!

    2 years ago

  • MightyMadgecreations

    MightyMadgecreations says:

    Thanks for the helpful tips. I am new to etsy and online sales and am looking for all the help i can get. Thanks again

    2 years ago

  • vrixa

    vrixa says:

    Thank you so much. Its of great use. Keep going.

    2 years ago

  • memories2112

    memories2112 says:

    thanks

    2 years ago

  • LondonParticulars

    LondonParticulars says:

    Awesome tips, thanks!

    2 years ago

  • mruxndesign

    mruxndesign says:

    COOL ARTICLE! THANKS + HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND! kris http://mruxndesign.blogspot.com/ http://www.mr-uxn.com/jewellery.htm http://puredesign.ning.com/events http://mruxndesign.wordpress.com/

    2 years ago

  • MossimoL

    MossimoL says:

    Great tips! I need all the help that I can get. Thanks so much!

    2 years ago

  • notionbyleandra

    notionbyleandra says:

    Thanks for the info! Now I got to get started.

    2 years ago

  • itsybitsyknitting

    itsybitsyknitting says:

    Thanks for the information and great tips! I can definitely incorporate them in my listings.

    2 years ago

  • goodegear

    goodegear says:

    Nice tips thank you!

    2 years ago

  • pollyputsthekettleon

    pollyputsthekettleon says:

    Wow, this was written forever ago, but still so useful!

    2 years ago

  • MeAndBoo

    MeAndBoo says:

    Good advice, am always looking for ways to improve. I find descriptions so hard to write, sometimes they just work, sometimes, not so much!

    2 years ago

  • coocolor

    coocolor says:

    Thanks~~

    2 years ago

  • birribe

    birribe says:

    Very good advice I have to start changing my descriptions

    2 years ago

  • DanielMontoyaStudio

    DanielMontoyaStudio says:

    Great advice!

    2 years ago

  • BlondiesVintage

    BlondiesVintage says:

    Thanks for sharing! I tend to be long winded at times w/descriptions..something I need to work on.

    2 years ago

  • sacredjewelry

    sacredjewelry says:

    Great advice. I usually give my designs names that evoke what the specific jewelry piece makes me feel like (or can make the customer feel like), while keeping in mind the search engines, too. Not an easy task!

    2 years ago

  • NanLawson

    NanLawson says:

    great advice! and thanks for using my "i love my typewriter" print in the e-mail! so cool!

    2 years ago

  • kidgiddy

    kidgiddy says:

    thanks - i needed that!

    2 years ago

  • forsythecompanystore

    forsythecompanystore says:

    another one to mark...I can't keep up with all the changes. I'm off for a new year's cockatail!!

    2 years ago

  • SEOWebDesign

    SEOWebDesign says:

    EVERYTHING that Deanna writes about online writing is true. Online Web page visitors ARE impatient. Decisions about your Web site, blog or online shop are made within a few seconds. ALSO, including keywords that the search engines use along with your catchy titles and descriptions is very important to the search engines. Using both compelling writing and keywords is difficult and challenging but it can be AND IS done by all larger better web sites. Good article.

    2 years ago

  • vixensnaturaljewelry

    vixensnaturaljewelry says:

    Thanks! I like the idea of something eye catching and to the point. Very helpful!

    2 years ago

  • fuchsiabloomstudio

    fuchsiabloomstudio says:

    very helpful advice!

    2 years ago

  • smilingbluedog

    smilingbluedog says:

    Very helpful tips, Thankyou! I especially like the "KISS" acronym.

    2 years ago

  • RoughMagicCreations

    RoughMagicCreations says:

    Fabulous writing tips and PERFECT TIMING too -- January 1 and I'm already fired up to freshen up my shop! . Many thanks!!! :)

    2 years ago

  • thumbuddies

    thumbuddies says:

    Thank you for the writing tips:)

    2 years ago

  • KasualBead

    KasualBead says:

    I want to thank you for sharing that information. I really need to do a lot of work updating my shop.

    2 years ago

  • underhiswing

    underhiswing says:

    great tips, thanks!

    2 years ago

  • purplepajamas

    purplepajamas says:

    Amazing! Thanks!

    2 years ago

  • littlestarclothing

    littlestarclothing says:

    fantastic tips, thanks!!

    2 years ago

  • reinaldovalentin

    reinaldovalentin says:

    ADVICE ADVICE ADVICE ! You can never get enough GOOD advice. Thanks

    2 years ago

  • WrappedToPerfection

    WrappedToPerfection says:

    I'm new to Etsy and this is great advice! I need to go back and review all my items and tweak the descriptions, etc.! Thanks so much!

    2 years ago

  • lavendarblue

    lavendarblue says:

    Since my things are vintage, in my new shop, think I now need to go back,re-write to describe why I myself love them, to do more than just listing the measurements, colors etc and making a precise description.

    2 years ago

  • MelissaCaronJeweller

    MelissaCaronJeweller says:

    Thank you, great tips!

    2 years ago

  • kittybblove

    kittybblove says:

    This article is well written and so helpful. Thanks so much for your knowledge. I'd love to see more articles like this in the future :D

    2 years ago

  • sureynot

    sureynot says:

    THANK YOU!

    2 years ago

  • Lily1010

    Lily1010 says:

    You ROCK! I need words that POP and sometimes, when inspired I will establish a listing of words in WORD of terms that might be useful in future listings. The bullet points could be helpful rather then a paragraph of a description. I will attempt this on my next listing. I am getting so excited about all of these great suggestions. One that I may want to add: I feel that one needs to allow time to write the proper listing, take the best photographs, ( I still remain in a critical area in this segment) and spend the time doing research if there are any materials that you are using in which you are unfamiliar, educate yourself as to what they are. I guess I would have to say that you cannot just make a great product. Half of it is the photos, description, and the POP, I should know, I have sold six items since inception. . Thanks for listening/reading anyway! Happy New Year!

    2 years ago

  • betwigsandbetrees

    betwigsandbetrees says:

    Wonderful words of wisdom. Thank you!

    2 years ago

  • zueeuz

    zueeuz says:

    Thanks for the advice, off to tame.....

    2 years ago

  • willkaystudios

    willkaystudios says:

    Very good advice and also the Etsy people who are commenting give extra good advice too, thanks to you all!!!!!

    2 years ago

  • CocoHoney

    CocoHoney says:

    Thanks for the tips.

    2 years ago

  • danceswithclay

    danceswithclay says:

    Great tips Deanna. I went through my shop and up dated all my descriptions, leaving spaces between paragraphs. They are so much easier to read now. Thank you.

    2 years ago

  • WishesAndSpells

    WishesAndSpells says:

    Hmmmm! Sometime you just need someone to state the obvious. Thanks for the tips!

    2 years ago

  • coritwss

    coritwss says:

    thanks, that's great! I've got some fixin' up to do :)

    2 years ago

  • paintingpam

    paintingpam says:

    Yeah, I need to write short and to the point for the online audience!

    2 years ago

  • DestinysTreasures

    DestinysTreasures says:

    Great artical. Thank you:)

    2 years ago

  • glassali

    glassali says:

    I love reading descriptions that are well-written and fun and show the seller's personality. I have friends who claim they always check out my descriptions just for the fun of reading them. Or maybe they just feel sorry for me. Either way, they need to buy something. :)

    2 years ago

  • BeelightfulCreations

    BeelightfulCreations says:

    Your article has inspired me to returnto all my descriptions and proof them for brevity and interest. Thanks!

    2 years ago

  • BeelightfulCreations

    BeelightfulCreations says:

    Oh, and maybe I should proof for spelling and spacing - oops.

    2 years ago

  • BeadedTemptation

    BeadedTemptation says:

    Thanks for the need info.

    2 years ago

  • HazyDaisy

    HazyDaisy says:

    Great tips! I didn't know you could create live links in item descriptions, I've started already. I'm going to try for more punchy titles for my items too. Oh yes,and proof read my descriptions too-my typing is atrocious! Thanks so much!

    2 years ago

  • mbaengraving

    mbaengraving says:

    Very helpful information...

    2 years ago

  • faerydance

    faerydance says:

    I found this very helpful. Thank you so much!

    2 years ago

  • magpieantiques

    magpieantiques says:

    "don't drown your clever cut of meat with too much gravy" what an absolutely brilliant phrase! I've filed that in my brain,and will keep it there for daily reference. Thank-you!

    2 years ago

  • chikahisastudio

    chikahisastudio says:

    Thanks- helpful!

    2 years ago

  • designsbycorrine

    designsbycorrine says:

    Awesome advice for a new seller. Thank you for saving me from some marketing mistakes!

    2 years ago

  • MountainSpices

    MountainSpices says:

    Thanks a lot for this article. and God Bless

    1 year ago

  • ReminisceWithMia

    ReminisceWithMia says:

    Terrific Overview & Tips. Thanks.

    1 year ago

  • minusplusminus

    minusplusminus says:

    Thank you for useful advice.

    1 year ago

  • SimplyByBex

    SimplyByBex says:

    I am finding a lot of good information to enhance my etsy shop! Thanks :D

    1 year ago

  • ipson

    ipson says:

    Thanks So Much! I am New, Get usful information from you. Thank you!D;

    1 year ago

  • ReDFindz

    ReDFindz says:

    Great info. Thanks.

    1 year ago

  • MommyTyme

    MommyTyme says:

    Wow.. I have been doing the exact opposite. I had been told to give details and use words that are easily found in the search engines or words that would commonly be used in the search! Thanks for this, I am rewriting tonight!!!

    1 year ago

  • gypsyjeweler

    gypsyjeweler says:

    Thanks! Its hard to get started on Etsy, so all advice helps!

    1 year ago

  • retronoir

    retronoir says:

    Very helpful!

    1 year ago

  • jaguarlipstick

    jaguarlipstick says:

    thanks so much for taking the time to share your advice with us! its easy to be creative but hard to learn how to edit!

    1 year ago

  • tammyann343

    tammyann343 says:

    You rock!

    1 year ago

  • LauraKAiken

    LauraKAiken says:

    Deanna, I just read your article and found it most interesting. I have been on Etsy for a good while but always trying to improve. Thanks for the tips! laura.

    1 year ago

  • karadanieljewelry

    karadanieljewelry says:

    always helpful to have an outside eye, thanks!

    1 year ago

  • Noni529

    Noni529 says:

    As a newbie on Etsy this advice will be of great benefit to me. Thanks so much.

    1 year ago

  • JacquelineJewelry

    JacquelineJewelry says:

    Whew! I love your examples of words that POP! I'm still in list mode. Right now I'm finishing photographs, but I see I have to go back and pop up my descriptions and titles.

    1 year ago

  • thePieceDeResistance

    thePieceDeResistance says:

    Speed Bumps = Pure Genius! Applying that ASAP!

    1 year ago

  • larrysleatherwork

    larrysleatherwork says:

    Very good. Descriptions I am not good at. Thanks for the help. I'm learning.

    1 year ago

  • FantasyJewelryGoddes

    FantasyJewelryGoddes says:

    Thank you. I am still learning and so I guess that I need to iron out those "speed bumps" that you refer to lol.

    1 year ago

  • forgottenstore

    forgottenstore says:

    thanks you very much!!

    1 year ago

  • JulianneDesignsSD

    JulianneDesignsSD says:

    Great advice before I'm ready to post my pieces for the first time!

    1 year ago

  • FlairWares

    FlairWares says:

    Points well taken. I have a catalog background, so it's good to re-access my audience. Thank you for the information!

    1 year ago

  • ishigallery

    ishigallery says:

    Great info, thanks for taking the time to write this!

    1 year ago

  • LizzieAndGirls

    LizzieAndGirls says:

    GREAT tips and advice! Thanks so much for sharing your expertise. :)

    1 year ago

  • Astella19

    Astella19 says:

    super helpful :]

    1 year ago

  • Plainweaves

    Plainweaves says:

    Your advice was very helpful. I am a novice and feel like the elephant in the room. You have told me how but I still don't know where and when. Pat

    338 days ago

  • DCFabricArt

    DCFabricArt says:

    Thank you for this. I will be opening my shop this weekend and this advice will be very helpful.

    254 days ago

  • pachamamalove8

    pachamamalove8 says:

    Great advice. Thank you. Very helpful

    253 days ago

  • BucksCountyImages

    BucksCountyImages says:

    My shop name changed to Gina Waltersdorff Art. I took notes, I read somewhere never write in the first person with I, I will take your advice and go to my 90 items and rewrite in the first person. It was very time consuming to rewrite titles and tags. It took me three weeks at this busy time of the year. As I did this unwanted task, I realized it was badly needed. Thanks for the helpful advise. I hope things will change. I sold two small items in ten months. My art photography sells well at craft/art shows. I know I am buried under 900,000 other Etsy Shops. I don't give up easily.

    182 days ago

  • BettysBeadSoup

    Betty Winslow from BettysBeadSoup says:

    Good advice! As a professional freelance writer, I wince whenever I see words spelled or used incorrectly and read copy that is blah or confusing. I second the comments about wondering what other details have been overlooked. I would be happy to barter copy edit/spellcheck/grammar tips, if anyone's interested. I'm also up for any comments y'all might have about my shop.... http://www.etsy.com/shop/BettysBeadSoup

    37 days ago

  • customheirloomart1

    Custom HeirloomArt from customheirloomart1 says:

    Excellent.Just short and simple...I will see if I can do it.

    36 days ago

  • BarkWagFetch

    Ronilee from BarkWagFetch says:

    What a great post - wish I'd come across it sooner!

    27 days ago