Set Your Shop Above The Rest

As the Holiday buying season approaches, we need to be sure we're doing all we can to reassure our potential customers. Today we're inundated with stories of fraud, poor packaging that led to broken items, sellers that refuse to offer refunds for wrong items, and more. We can combat this and set our stores apart with a few basic words & practices. Some sellers hide behind their descriptions, leaving out information so the item will sell faster. You are building long term customer relationships-treat your clients as you wish to be treated. 

Vintage Ceramic Rooster offered by VintageInBloom

First of all, congrats! Being a member of the Etsy Vintage Team is a great seal of approval to have. The high standards set by this team mean that buyers can relax, knowing that they're dealing with a reputable seller. 

Antique Treenware Kitchen Set offered by birdie1

But it's going to take more than just a badge to get an insecure buyer to click the Add to Cart button. The first impression of your shop is vital, just as it is with people. Is it well laid out? Are colors & textures balanced-not too much of one color on a side, silver items spread evenly throughout the page, clothing balanced out with jewelry? If you're unsure, try this: back away from your computer screen a little ways and squint your eyes. You'll quickly assess what needs to go where.

Vintage Tole Metal Tray offered by tparty

Are your descriptions thorough? Be sure you're eliminating all guesswork for the potential buyer. Provide what the item is made of, what its measurements are and all elements of condition. Avoid the dreaded: "in good condition for its age"-it's far too subjective. Be specific: There is a 1/4 inch long crack along the side, the binding is tight & the pages all present, the leather is supple, there is consistent crazing, etc. 

Silver Kangaroo Ring offered by evalena

Are you providing extra information that other sellers neglect to provide? One such example is black light testing. It brings out the hidden flaws and repairs your naked eye may have missed, thus providing another level of security for your customer. Do you mention if the item smells fresh and is free from smoke? I consider this a vital piece of information when I'm buying, since I'm seriously allergic to tobacco smoke. 

1970s Maxi Dress offered by JojosRetroandVintage

Being willing to offer fast exact shipping is good idea for last minute shoppers. Providing tracking numbers and insurance is another way to give reassurance to a wary buyer. As I've mentioned before, it's always better to provide a variety of shipping rates so your buyer feels confident. 

Antique Lusterware Open Salts offered by vintageatchirp

Layaway is a popular option now; just 2 or 3 payments can make a world of difference. I've had 3 sales for over $400 lately done this way and they've all paid on time. If you do offer it, advertise it. 

Modernist Sterling Brooch Offered by darlingblu

In these uncertain times this extra level of service reassures the buyer and shows them you're sensitive to their needs. Since most of our shops are going to do the bulk of their business during the holidays, now is the time to be sure we're providing a top level of customer service. 

Just One Eensy Weensy Step

1940s German Travel Alarm offered by calloohcallay

We're all thrilled when an item sells. It's a great feeling to send it out, knowing your vintage find has found a new home and you've just made more room for your next vintage treasure. But what if sending it off wasn't the final act? What if pressing down that last bit of tape was just one little step towards another sale? 

1960s Floral Containers offered by Flyingace

I like to buy from my fellow vintage sellers, especially ones that are members of the Etsy Vintage Team. In this spirit, when I needed a hat form recently I searched within the team and found a neat green colored one from tippleandsnack. When I received her neatly wrapped package, I found a cool insert inside.

Example of tippleandsnacks tag, included in each package

It drew my attention: cute cellophane envelope, the shop logo, & a vintage cardboard milk top. This little extra step reinforced the shop logo in my mind and made me happy-a little cute freebie! It was the perfect balance of what a package insert should be. Occasionally when I've purchased from artists they've sent a pile of discount cards that are confusing and don't do anything to reinforce their own brand. Keeping it simple is key. 

Tangerine Orange Buttons offered by AddVintage

A few customers lately have asked us to refrain from including invoices since the item is a gift. We've gone the extra step and included a birthday note. That has brought in rave reviews! We're also willing to wrap a gift if asked-who doesn't love to unwrap gifts? 

Boy Was I Mad Book offered by wonderdiva

To help provide extra incentive, we always include a card with our logo & a discount code. Just had a customer take advantage of that last week-she had received a birthday gift from her Mom through us and used the discount that we sent. That is such a great feeling-our small effort resulted in a sale. Repeat customers are a vital part of a stores ongoing success. 

Vintage Peony Blouse offered byBirdsChasingBugs

What you choose to include with the item is also critical to your future with that customer. A clean tight box with no questionable logos is one great, but what's the extra step? Wrap things in rice paper instead of tissue? Tucking in a valued freebie instead of just a business card? Wrapping a charming piece of vintage ribbon around your tissue encased item? Every little small piece of the sales puzzle plays a role in your potential future customer relations. 

Picton Ontario Postcard offered by TheOldBarnDoor

It's never just about the item. It's about how the experience is perceived. Your beautiful wrapping, professionally packaged box or creative insert can cause the item to be seen in a totally different light. Take the extra care and enjoy repeat customers, over and over again!