Decide in the next 15 minutes
Over the years, I’ve been asked this question countless times, and it’s a hot topic on social media:
I’m on Etsy, but should I stay? Is it time to launch my own website?
The answer isn’t always a simple yes or no. Deciding what’s best for your business depends on a variety of factors, and what works for one person might not be the right fit for another.
That’s why I’ve created this three-part video series to guide you through the decision-making process. We’ll explore the pros, the cons, and everything in between so you can make an informed choice.
By the end of the 15 minute series, you’ll have a clear understanding of the factors involved and the confidence to take your next step, whether that’s sticking with Etsy or building your own website.
Part One (6 minutes)
▶️ Getting real about Etsy
Etsy as a Marketplace: The biggest advantage of Etsy is its built-in traffic. As a marketplace, Etsy brings customers directly to your products.
Challenges of Selling on Etsy:
- Competition: You're competing with countless other sellers on the platform.
- Marketplace Priority: Etsy's main focus is driving sales for Etsy.com, not necessarily promoting your shop.
- Limited Branding Opportunities: Buyers often say, "I got it on Etsy," rather than associating the purchase with your brand.
- Review System: Etsy’s review process can feel one-sided, with limited moderation for fairness.
- Algorithm Dependence: Success on Etsy often depends on navigating their ever-changing algorithm.
- The Biggest Drawback: Lack of control. On Etsy, you're building a business on someone else's platform, which means you’re subject to their rules and limitations.
Should you rely solely on Etsy to grow your business?
In the next video, we’ll explore your options and help you decide the best path forward.
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Part Two (6 minutes)
▶️ Paths beyond Etsy
This video helps you decide whether creating your own website is the right step for your business.
Etsy’s Built-In Traffic vs. Your Efforts:
- Etsy’s main advantage is its built-in traffic—you don’t need to drive visitors to the platform.
- However, if you’re already marketing and sending traffic to Etsy, it’s time to consider creating your own website where you’ll have more control over those efforts.
Diversify Your Sales Channels:
- A sales channel is any platform where you sell your products—Etsy, Amazon, social media, in-person, or your own website.
- Adding a website creates a valuable, controllable asset for your business and helps diversify where your sales come from.
Benefits of Your Own Website:
- Brand Recognition: Build a recognizable brand where customers buy directly from you, strengthening long-term relationships and customer loyalty.
- Marketing Ownership: Control your traffic and marketing strategies rather than relying on Etsy's. If you’re already marketing, redirecting that traffic to your website is a natural next step.
- Full Control: No competition from other sellers, complete customization of your website’s design and functionality, and additional features like blogs, FAQ pages, or size guides to boost sales.
- Cost Structure: Pay a flat monthly fee for the platform instead of a percentage of every sale.
- Beyond a Shop: Your website can include tools like email opt-ins, blogs for SEO, and pages tailored to educate and excite customers, ultimately helping you sell more.
Bottom Line:
A website is a powerful sales and marketing asset that can benefit your business for years to come.
What’s Next?
In the next video, we’ll dive into how to choose the right platform to build your website.
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Part Three (5 Minutes)
▶️ Platform Comparison & Next Steps
Choosing the Right Website Platform: If you're ready to build your website, the next step is choosing a platform.
Why Shopify is the Best Choice:
- Industry Leader: Shopify is the gold standard for e-commerce, used by big brands like Kylie Cosmetics, Heinz, and The New York Times Store.
- Cost-Effective: The basic plan is $39/month, with no transaction fees when using Shopify Payments (just credit card processing fees).
- Flexibility: The Shopify App Store offers nearly endless features, but you can run a fully functional store without paid apps.
- Beginner-Friendly: Designed for ease of use, Shopify doesn’t require coding skills, and there's ample support available.
- Sales Tax Made Simple: Shopify calculates and charges sales tax based on your location; you just need to file the reports.
Your Next Steps:
- If You’re Not Ready Yet: That’s okay! Take your time, and keep learning. Helpful guides and resources are coming your way.
- If You’re Ready to Build: Join the free masterclass to learn how to get started and receive special offers for additional support.
