Total Shop Review Module

Members of the Dorset Team have completed the Total Shop Review; a module by Etsy for Etsy sellers.

Whilst these modules are set up to work with a partner, the way the Dorset Team run these is via a thread on our Dorset Team page on the Etsy Website.  Each Tuesday, we independently gather over our laptops, tablets etc and have a 'live chat' on the thread.

The topics and workbooks provided by Etsy are always really informative and what is really valuable is getting advice from others in the team.  This time, we critiqued each other's shops and this proved extremely helpful in focussing where to best use our time before the next live chat.

The best chats are always the ones where there are lots of team members chatting- it really doesn't matter whether you're a seasoned Etsy seller or a newbie:  every opinion counts.

It would be great to hear what other team members felt about the Review, particularly if there is any constructive criticism.

Even though I'm unsure when the next module will be, I'm looking forward to the next Dorset Team Etsy School live chats already! 

Ruth

Total Shop Review: What we did

On Tuesday evening a number of Dorset Team members sat at their chosen electronic device and engaged in the live chat.

In the first week, we discussed what target we would give ourselves for the duration of the Etsy school.  The majority of us are focusing on retaking photographs or increasing stock.

We then had a look at team member's shops who had invited a critique from other team members.  I think most of us found this very useful. 

It was lovely to get to know other team members and get useful advice- it really is a friendly place the Dorset Team!! 

If you're kicking yourself and want to join in, why not take a look at the thread and get in touch with Rachel...

See you Tuesday eve, 7.30pm!

Total Shop Review- Week One

A little plug and an introduction to how the Dorset Team take part in Etsy school modules...

So the first live chat takes place tonight- everyone who is part of the team is welcome to sign up.  We converse using the specific discussion thread labelled something obvious like 'week one Total Shop Review' within the Dorset Team community page on Etsy.

If you're having trouble, just get in touch!  We've all been there, feeling a bit nervous and unsure- be assured that we are a friendly bunch, happy to help!

If you're still not convinced, why not sign up and keep quiet during the chat or even have a look when the chat is over!

There will be a little summary and a chance to comment on how you're getting on here each week, so  why not learn something new, meet new people across the internet and also make your Etsy shop more successful?

What to consider in February

What to Remember, Consider, Ponder, Discard?! in January

A Reflection on the Dorset Team Christmas Fair

It's here!

Christmas fair countdown tip

It's here!

However much preparation you put in, you'll still be running round like a blue-arsed fly the day (and probably night) before a fair.

So our final tip to try and soothe the soul is have a big old checklist and have fun ticking tasks off as you do them. On a practical level, it means you won't forget anything. On a psychological level, it will calm you down and get you in the right frame of mind for tomorrow.

Your list will be personal to you, but we have a starter one here that you can tack your own items to.

Do you have your…
Float
Money tin/apron/bag
Business cards
Bags
Receipt book
Stall props
Table cover
Shop sign or signs
Stall decorations
Price tags
Stock – create a separate list with everything

Emergency pack
Sticky tape
Safety pins
Clamps
Pens
Pencils
String
Spare price labels and however you attach them
Mints (to avoid coffee/talky too muchy breath)
Bus fair home (joking!)

When deciding what to wear, comfy shoes are essential, as are layers. Who knows how hot it will be, so ensure you can layer up or strip off.

Finally take some snacks and drink in case you are so overwhelmed with customers that you don't get chance to buy anything.

Have the best of times and here's looking forward to the next one!

Go big

Christmas fair inspiration tip

Go big

If you have a specific type of product or a very strong brand, don't be afraid to go all-out on your stall.

The example below shows how a table has been transformed into a mini shopfront. It is incredibly eye-catching and no doubt attracts a lot of potential customers.

The beauty is that once you start dissecting how it has been put together, there is nothing too intimidating.

Look at the stall top. While the suitcases are lovely, there isn't anything particularly revolutionary. The genius comes with the simple frame that holds what looks like a curtain rod, which in turns holds the fabric backdrop and string lights.

There is a little bit of room to the left of the stall, so the owner can be seen, but the main focus is all on the products.

To see the original pin, plus view some extra inspiration examples, head on over to here.