I found this inspiring idea on Handmadenews.com. How cool is this?
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September 22, 2009 | By Kristin Walters
Here in the marketing department at handmadenews.org, we’re all about helping YOU find new and successful ways to market your handmade shop. There is one group of sellers on Etsy that does the same, but with a different twist – the S.N.E.A.K. (Sneakers Notorious on Etsy for Attacking with Kindness) team.
What makes this team unique is that they seek out sellers with zero (or few) sales, and then organize a “sneak attack.” Members of the team – and anyone else who wants to participate – go www.handmademovement.com at scheduled times throughout the week to find out which seller is being highlighted. Then, they visit that shop to view, make purchases, and promote.
Do these sneak attacks really work, you might ask? The team reports that in the past year there have been 147 sneak attacks on a total of 241 shops, resulting in 2768 sales. How’s that for results in one year?
Though a sneak attack isn’t a long-term marketing solution, it is very valuable in that it lifts the spirits of the sellers and can give them the boost they need to forge ahead in their shop. These previously “unknown” sellers are also meeting a supportive team of people who can help them with advice and tips as they go further in their handmade career. In my opinion, that has the potential to be worth more than any sales they may get that day.
One marketing tip I can’t stress enough is to join a team (on Etsy) or guild (on Artfire). I’ve personally found it to be a great way to get honest, one-on-one advice and feedback from other sellers. I’ve learned more in a shorter amount of time from my fellow teammates on Etsy than I have reading tutorials and tips online – plus, I’ve been able to ask them questions when needed. It’s also been an excellent treasure trove of marketing tips, mentoring opportunities, and even the occasional sale.
Artisan Michael Phipps started these sneak attacks just about a year ago, and the S.N.E.A.K. team was soon to follow. On Thursday, September 24, they are throwing a big party full of giveaways to celebrate. To learn more, and to enter, visit them at handmademovement.com. The “big celebration” may be this week – but the sneaking up on sellers will continue long after. Make sure you visit handmademovement.com to see how you can support them in the future!
Sandria (aka Pixie)
