Avoid These Etsy SEO Fails in 2024!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

• Overview of the article

2. The Top Etsy SEO Myths

• A look at the false advice and misconceptions surrounding Etsy SEO

3. Myth #1: Editing High-Performing Listings

• The importance of not making changes to listings that are already successful

4. Myth #2: Not Waiting to Update Keywords

• Debunking the rumor that updating keywords resets your listing

5. Myth #3: Neglecting to Refresh eRank Data

• The significance of keeping eRank data accurate and up to date

6. Myth #4: Relying on a Single Keyword Research Tool

• The benefits of using multiple tools for keyword research

7. Myth #5: Placing Too Much Emphasis on Grades

• Understanding the role of grades in eRank's listing audit tool

8. Myth #6: Assuming Rank is Static

• Explaining the personalized search algorithm and how to check your rank accurately

9. Myth #7: Starting Keyword Research Too Narrow

• The importance of starting broad and refining your keyword research

10. Myth #8: Guessing Keywords Instead of Using Research Tools

• Why relying on guesswork for keywords is ineffective

11. Myth #9: Using the Etsy Search Bar as the Primary Research Tool

• How to effectively utilize the Etsy search bar for keyword research

12. Myth #10: Incorrectly Filling Out Attributes

• Understanding the purpose of attributes and avoiding common mistakes

13. Myth #11: Not Sharing Your Etsy Shop on Social Media

• The benefits of promoting your Etsy shop on social media channels

14. Conclusion

• Recap of the key points discussed in the article

The Top Etsy SEO Myths

In the fast-paced and ever-growing world of Etsy, sellers are constantly bombarded with advice on how to improve their search engine optimization (SEO) and increase their chances of success. However, not all advice is created equal, and it's important to separate fact from fiction. In this article, we will debunk some of the top Etsy SEO myths and provide you with the real insights you need to strategize for success in 2024.

Myth #1: Editing High-Performing Listings

One of the most common Etsy SEO mistakes is making unnecessary changes to listings that are already performing well. While it may be tempting to tinker with the keywords and tags of successful listings in an attempt to optimize them further, this practice can be detrimental. When a listing is already performing well, it means that it is attracting views and generating sales. By editing the keywords of such listings, you risk removing valuable terms that were contributing to their success. It is crucial to leave well-performing listings untouched and focus your optimization efforts on underperforming ones instead.

Myth #2: Not Waiting to Update Keywords

Another prevalent myth is that updating keywords resets your listing, requiring a lengthy re-indexing period. This is simply not true. While it is recommended to give Etsy enough time to observe how shoppers interact with your listing after making changes, waiting 60 to 90 days is not necessary. This time period represents the average duration during which Etsy boosts new listings in search to evaluate their performance. After this period, Etsy assigns a listing quality score based on shopper interactions and determines its place in search. It is essential to give your updated keywords some time to settle in, but there is no need to wait several months before making further adjustments.

Myth #3: Neglecting to Refresh eRank Data

If you rely on eRank.com for your keyword research, it is crucial to keep your data accurate by regularly refreshing it. Due to the vast amount of user data, eRank cannot provide real-time information for every user. Therefore, it is necessary to refresh the data whenever prompted by the site or manually by using the provided option. By ensuring that your eRank data is up to date, you can make better-informed decisions regarding your SEO strategies and keyword usage.

Myth #4: Relying on a Single Keyword Research Tool

While eRank is a powerful tool for keyword research, it is not the only tool available. Relying solely on one tool may limit your understanding of customer behavior and trends. Make use of other reputable keyword research tools to gather additional data and insights. For example, the compare keywords tool can help you analyze and compare the stats of different keywords, while the trend buzz tool allows you to stay updated on the latest trends on Etsy. By diversifying your research methods, you can uncover more valuable information and fine-tune your keyword optimization strategy.

Myth #5: Placing Too Much Emphasis on Grades

eRank's grading system, found in the listing audit tool, is often misunderstood. Grades are not the ultimate determinant of the success of your SEO or the keywords you choose. The grading system acts as a checklist to ensure that your listing follows Etsy's best practices. It does not involve any human assessment or in-depth analysis of your keyword usage. Grades can be useful for new listings or underperforming ones that need improvement, but they should not be the sole focus of your SEO strategy. It is vital to remember that grades do not outweigh actual performance metrics, such as conversions and organic search rankings.

Myth #6: Assuming Rank is Static

Etsy's personalized search algorithm makes it impossible to check your ranking accurately by searching for your listings within the Etsy search bar. Each user sees a different set of search results based on their unique IP address and shopping habits. Logging out of your account, using incognito windows, or even utilizing a VPN will not provide an accurate representation of search rankings. The only reliable way to check your rank, stripped of personalization, is by using eRank's rank checker tool. This tool utilizes Etsy's API to show your average position in search, providing valuable insights into how shoppers see your listings.

Myth #7: Starting Keyword Research Too Narrow

Many sellers make the mistake of starting their keyword research with specific terms and phrases, hoping to narrow down their focus quickly. However, it is more effective to start with broader keywords and gradually refine your research. By beginning with general terms and examining the keyword suggestions provided by eRank, you can discover stronger longtail keyword phrases that are easier to rank for. Specific keywords often indicate a higher level of shopper intent, meaning the searcher is closer to making a purchase. By broadening your initial research, you can target a wider range of potential customers.

Myth #8: Guessing Keywords Instead of Using Research Tools

Guessing keywords based on assumptions or intuition is a common error that can severely limit the effectiveness of your SEO efforts. Without actual data, it is impossible to know what people are searching for on Etsy and whether your predictions align with their behavior. To ensure the accuracy of your keywords, it is crucial to employ reliable keyword research tools like eRank. These tools provide valuable information on monthly search volumes, keyword trends, and competition levels. By basing your keyword choices on data, you can make informed decisions and increase your chances of reaching your target audience.

Myth #9: Using the Etsy Search Bar as the Primary Research Tool

While the Etsy search bar is a useful tool for shoppers, it should not be relied upon as the primary source for keyword research. The phrases recommended by the search bar do not necessarily reflect actual search volume or popularity among users. To gain more accurate insights into keyword performance, it is essential to double-check the terms suggested by the Etsy search bar using eRank's keyword tool. This allows you to assess search volumes, competition levels, and click-through rates, providing a more comprehensive understanding of each keyword's potential.

Myth #10: Incorrectly Filling Out Attributes

Attributes play a crucial role in categorizing and defining your products on Etsy. However, during the holiday season, many sellers make the mistake of adding holiday-themed attributes to items that are not specifically designed for those occasions. Attributes should align with the nature of your product and represent its essential characteristics. Adding attributes that do not accurately describe your item can lead to confusion among shoppers and negatively impact your SEO. It is important to correctly fill out attributes and only include those that truly apply to your product.

Myth #11: Not Sharing Your Etsy Shop on Social Media

Contrary to popular belief, sharing your Etsy shop link on social media is not detrimental to your Etsy SEO. In fact, promoting your shop on social media channels can have several benefits. It not only helps to build overall brand awareness but also generates external traffic to your Etsy shop. Sharing your shop link on social media channels allows you to tap into a wider audience and decrease your reliance solely on Etsy's search engine. By diversifying your traffic sources, you increase your chances of attracting more customers and boosting your sales.

Conclusion

In conclusion, debunking common Etsy SEO myths is essential for sellers looking to enhance their online presence and improve their chances of success on the platform. By avoiding the pitfalls of misinformation and implementing effective SEO strategies, sellers can increase their visibility, attract their target audience, and drive more sales. By utilizing a combination of reputable keyword research tools, staying informed on best practices, and constantly analyzing and refining your SEO efforts, you can navigate the ever-changing landscape of Etsy and elevate your business to new heights.