Boost Your Etsy Sales Using Proven Marketing Strategies with Jacinta Gandy

In the competitive world of Etsy selling, standing out and growing your business can be a challenge. Many sellers start their journey by listing a few products, hoping the platform will handle the rest. But as Dylan, host of the Etsy Seller Success podcast, highlights, “Etsy doesn’t just bring customers to your door—it’s up to you to market effectively and scale your business.”

This episode dives into actionable marketing strategies for Etsy sellers, featuring expert insights from Jacinta Gandy, founder of Social Circle, a full-service marketing agency specializing in branding, web design, and digital marketing. Let’s unpack the key takeaways to help you elevate your Etsy shop.

The Missing Link: Why Marketing Strategies Often Fail

Many Etsy sellers struggle with marketing because they lack a clear strategy. According to Jacinta, “Putting products online isn’t a strategy. It’s a step, but what’s your next move?” 

Sellers often fail to:

• Fully leverage Etsy’s platform tools
• Define clear goals for success
• Understand their audience and how to connect with them

Success requires more than just action—it requires intentional, consistent marketing efforts.

Essentials for Marketing Your Etsy Shop

Jacinta shared some fundamental steps for creating an effective marketing strategy:

1. Start with Friends and Family: Friends and family can act as beta testers for your product, providing valuable feedback before you launch to a broader audience
2. Leverage Social Media: Use platforms like Instagram and TikTok to engage with potential customers. But don’t just post and wait—be proactive by commenting, sending direct messages, and building relationships
3. Partner with Complementary Brands: For example, if you sell hats, consider collaborating with jewelry or accessory brands to expand your reach
4. Tell Your Story: Authenticity resonates. Share why you created your product and the problem it solves. This personal connection can transform casual browsers into loyal customers

Consistency Is Key

When asked how long it takes to see results from marketing efforts, Jacinta emphasized the importance of consistency. Whether you’re using social media or paid ads, growth requires time and regular engagement.

“The beauty of social media is that there are so many people out there who would love your product—they just don’t know you exist yet. It’s your job to make the first move,” she said.

Ads: A Shortcut to Visibility

For sellers short on time, paid advertising can be an effective way to reach new customers. Jacinta advises starting small and testing different ad strategies:

• Audience Segmentation: Run ads targeting different groups to see which audience responds best.
• Messaging: Experiment with various ad copy and visuals to identify what resonates most.
• Analyze and Adjust: View early ad spends as a learning investment. Use data to refine your campaigns for better results.

Content That Converts

When creating content for ads or social media, focus on storytelling and demonstrating your product’s value. “Don’t just lead with discounts,” Jacinta advises. “Instead, showcase the transformation your product provides.”

One example she shared was a viral video for a convertible handbag. The brand simply showed how the product worked, captivating viewers with its functionality. Similarly, Jacinta’s client who designed hats for larger heads gained traction by sharing her personal story and the challenges that inspired her to create the product.

TikTok vs. Instagram: Where Should You Focus?

Jacinta’s advice is to use TikTok for inspiration and trend discovery, then apply those insights to Instagram. “TikTok is often ahead of the curve,” she said. “By the time trends reach Instagram, you’re already late.”

She recommends streamlining your content strategy to work across both platforms. Focus on video-first approaches that align with trends, and don’t be afraid to repurpose content.

Balancing Sales and Connection

Many sellers worry about coming across as too “salesy.” Jacinta suggests weaving product promotions into lifestyle content.

For example:

• Share a “day in the life” video featuring your product
• Collaborate with influencers to showcase your product in use
• Use subtle hooks to pique curiosity rather than pushing direct sales

Building a Brand People Care About

To truly stand out, you need to connect with your audience on a deeper level. “Make it about them, not just your product,” Jacinta says. Highlight how your product fits into their lives or solves their problems.

Final Thoughts

Marketing your Etsy shop requires a mix of creativity, strategy, and persistence. Whether you’re just starting or looking to revive a stagnant shop, Jacinta’s advice offers a clear roadmap for success. Remember to engage proactively, leverage storytelling, and experiment with both organic and paid strategies.

Want to learn more from Jacinta Gandy? Connect with her on Instagram at @Jacinta_Gandy or visit her website at socialcircleinc.com.