So, you've just opened your shop and listed a few items. It's an exciting moment! But wait — maybe you could be doing something better. After all, this is a new endeavor. Is this banner eye-catching? Are the photos attractive? Does this description make sense? Should you have a policy about returning items? Oh no! Self-doubt creeps in. Where to turn for help?

There are a lot of great resources on Etsy that offer tips for improving one's shop. The How-To section of the Storque is a wealth of information. With the beginning of the new year, we kicked off a series on Shop Makeovers. There are also lots of other great articles by Etsy staff and community members that provide valuable info on promoting your handmade business, photography techniques and general business strategies like pricing. Another great source of info is the EtsyWiki — a community-edited encyclopedia of Etsy. There are fantastic submissions here from experienced Etsians on just about every subject from how to make a banner to a variety of small business concerns.

But perhaps you've read all the resources available, and you still just want the personal opinions of your peers to reassure you. What you need is a critique! Just pop over to the Crafting & Business section of the Forums. Before you post a new thread looking for feedback, we have a few points of advice about critiques, for both the critiquers and critiquee. (And yes, I did just totally make up those words.)

For the critiquee (seller seeking advice):

• Post your thread in the Crafting & Business section and be clear about your intent. State which parts of your shop you want help with: photography, banner, descriptions, etc.
• A critique is not a promo in disguise. If you ask for a critique, expect a critique. Do not use the platform as a sneaky way to get more people to look at your shop. This will probably irritate more people than it will bring you new customers.
• Stay involved in the thread. Be a part of the discussion with those offering advice. Don't expect them to just give you all the answers.
• Have a thick skin. Remember, you asked for advice, and people are trying to help you. It can be a vulnerable feeling to be the subject of a critique. Don't take it personally if they have a lot of suggestions.
• Take it all in stride. It's up to you which ideas you use or ignore. Just because someone offers an idea does not mean you need to make a change. You're still in control of your shop.
• Don't be too stubborn. You asked for input, so obviously you actually do think something could be improved. Evaluate the ideas and make changes if needed.
• Be gracious and polite. Thank those who have offered you ideas. This is a voluntary process.

For the critiquers (those offering advice)

• Be tactful. Asking for a critique is a humbling experience for some people. Be gentle as you offer constructive suggestions for improvement. "Your shop stinks" is never an appropriate comment in a crit.
• Offer constructive criticism, not just compliments. It's great if you genuinely like something. But remember that this person is asking for ways to improve, so carefully consider that and offer some advice instead of just saying something is cool.
• Unsolicited advice isn't always nice. Remember to keep your suggestions for the threads where people specifically ask others' opinions.
• Don't be too pushy. You may be speaking from experience, but remember, it's not your shop. It's okay if someone doesn't take your advice.

One last helpful resource worth mentioning: each week, the Etsy Labs offers a live shop critique session in the Virtual Labs. One or two brave sellers are selected ahead of time. During the workshop, both Etsy staff and other members have the opportunity to offer advice to the spolighted shop. Sitting in on one of these sessions is a great way to get ideas for your own shop. You can also sign up for the list to volunteer for your shop to be critiqued: see this forum thread. These workshops are announced in the How-To section of the Storque, so you can mark your calendars.

Share your thoughts & tips on critiques in this Forum thread: Seeking a critique? See here first!

In the Forum Decorum series, Lauren (stellaloella) and RobWhite of the Community team explain some of the finer points of cultural etiquette in Etsy's community spaces. When something is an official site rule, we'll be sure to link you up to the DOs and DON'Ts or Terms of Use. Simply consider these as tips for avoiding a forum faux pas.