Did Etsy Kill October Traffic? The REAL Cause

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Did Etsy Kill October Traffic? A Deep Dive into the Podcast Episode

Hey there! In my latest podcast episode, I tackled the big question: Did Etsy kill October traffic? There’s been a lot of buzz about this lately, and it’s easy to get caught up in the fearmongering. In this blog post, I’ll break down what I discussed in the episode, covering everything from Etsy’s algorithm changes to unexpected events that impacted sales. Let’s dive in!

Etsy Traffic Concerns: October Drop in Traffic

Right off the bat, I addressed the main concern: traffic was noticeably down for a lot of Etsy sellers this October. If you’re an Etsy seller, you probably noticed the dip, and I get it—it’s frustrating. But it wasn’t just Etsy sellers who were affected. Many sellers on platforms like eBay, Poshmark, and Mercari reported similar trends.

Overview of October Traffic Decline Across Platforms

It’s easy to blame Etsy alone, but a broader look at the market shows a trend across different platforms. So, what’s going on? The spotlight fell on Etsy because of a recent update that made changes to their SEO algorithm. Naturally, when sales slow down, it’s human nature to look for a cause—and Etsy’s update became the focus.

Impact of Etsy’s Algorithm Change

Etsy rolled out an SEO update in October, placing more emphasis on shipping and offering incentives for lower-cost shipping. The update aimed to make search results more relevant and to prioritize listings with better shipping options. But whenever there’s a change to the algorithm, some shops get hit harder than others. And that’s what sparked a wave of “Etsy killed my traffic” claims.

Etsy’s Goal: Increasing Purchases Through Algorithm Adjustments

I want to set the record straight. Etsy’s not out to kill anyone’s traffic. The goal of any algorithm tweak is to get more buyers to make purchases. Etsy’s changes are about aligning search results with what buyers are most likely to purchase. It’s not about sinking shops; it’s about improving the shopping experience for buyers.

Effective SEO Tactics for Etsy and Beyond

So, what should you do when Etsy’s algorithm shifts? Don’t try to hack the system. Instead, focus on tried-and-true SEO strategies that work not just for Etsy, but for platforms like Google too. Long-term success comes from using solid SEO tactics—like smart keyword usage and well-structured listings—not from trying to game the system.

Importance of Structured Listings and Keywords

The secret sauce to succeeding on Etsy, even during traffic dips, lies in data. I talked about how crucial it is to structure your listings with strong keywords. Give the algorithm what it needs: clear, concise, and relevant data. That’s how you make sure your products get seen, no matter what changes are happening behind the scenes.

October’s Natural Disasters Impacting Sales

One thing that’s not being talked about enough is the role that October’s natural disasters played. We had two major hurricanes that impacted a significant portion of the East Coast, where a large percentage of the U.S. population resides. These hurricanes certainly took a toll on online shopping. It’s hard to think about buying on Etsy when your home is dealing with flooding or wind damage, right?

Influence of External Factors on Online Sales

Disasters, global events, and local crises all impact online sales. It’s easy to overlook these things when you’re analyzing your Etsy shop’s numbers, but external factors can make a big difference. So, before blaming the algorithm entirely, consider what else might be happening in the world.

How to Handle Fluctuating Sales Trends

Fluctuations in traffic are a natural part of online selling. If you’ve been in the game for a while, you know sales ebb and flow. The key is knowing how to ride those waves and not getting discouraged when things slow down. My advice? Focus on what you can control—your business, your listings, and your strategy.

Focus on Business Improvement During Low Traffic Periods

In the podcast, I shared tips on how to use these slow periods to your advantage. Dive deeper into your business and find areas for improvement. Are there ways you can tweak your listings? Is there a new product you can introduce? Use low-traffic times to strategize, so you’re ready to bounce back when sales pick up again.

Successful Sellers: Focusing on Actionable Strategies

I’ve noticed that the most successful Etsy sellers aren’t spending their time complaining about changes in traffic. They’re busy working on their business. Complaining doesn’t bring in sales—action does. So, stay focused on finding solutions, not on blaming the algorithm.

Dealing with Algorithm Changes: A Productive Mindset

It’s okay to be aware of changes, but don’t approach them from a mindset of trying to “hack” the system. Instead, see them as opportunities. Knowledge is power, and understanding how updates affect your shop can give you a competitive edge. Use that knowledge to become a better seller and optimize your listings accordingly.

Adaptability: Navigating Constant Changes in Online Selling

Selling online is all about change. I shared an analogy from “Friends” where they’re moving a couch up the stairs, yelling “Pivot!” You have to be willing to pivot when things shift in the online selling world. Stay adaptable and keep your eye on the bigger picture.

Final Thoughts: Controlling What You Can

In the end, I don’t think Etsy “killed” traffic. October’s dip was likely a mix of algorithm updates and uncontrollable external factors. My advice is to have a thick skin and focus on what you can control—your shop, your listings, and your approach.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic, so be sure to check out the podcast episode if you haven’t already! And don’t forget to join the Etsy Games for a fun, supportive way to grow your business within a community of like-minded sellers.

Thanks for reading, and I hope this gives you a clearer view of what’s really going on with Etsy traffic and how to navigate it!

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