Running a business involves making decisions about many different aspects of your business. One of the most important decisions that will be faced by any entrepreneur is whether to sell your product or service on an online platform/marketplace such as Etsy or create your own eCommerce website. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, which can be exhausting to figure out.
When it comes to selling your products online, the decision of whether to use a marketplace like Etsy or set up your own website can be a tough one. While there are pros and cons to both options, it ultimately comes down to your individual goals and priorities. If you’re just starting out and don’t have a lot of resources to invest in your own website, a marketplace like Etsy can be a great way to get your products in front of a wider audience without having to worry about things like website design and marketing. However, it’s important to keep in mind that using a marketplace means you’ll be subject to their fees and policies, which can impact your bottom line.
Marketplace Example (not from my business)
There was an order from an Etsy customer where a card was inserted in the orders that offered $1 back on their order for any shout-outs on social media where they tagged my business. So this person ordered a personalized phone case and loved it, they posted on social media, tagged my business, and gave me a shoutout. This was great – then I noticed someone else had responded to their pic saying “Hey, cute phone case, where’d you get it?”
And their response was…“I got it on Etsy.”
Yep – they got it on ETSY. Not from my business, who they literally had JUST tagged. That is a problem with marketplaces (well, one of the problems). You’re just an Etsy seller, one among thousands. You aren’t “you,” if that makes sense. The end result makes it tough to brand your business and get loyal repeat business. Yes, you can absolutely achieve success in marketplaces, but it’s becoming increasingly harder to do.
On the other hand, setting up your own website gives you more control over your brand and the customer experience, but it also requires more time and effort to get up and running. Ultimately, the decision of whether to use a marketplace or set up your own website comes down to what’s most important to you as a seller, so take some time to consider your options and choose the path that feels right for you.
To read more about this topic, you can check out Board & Batten Design Co.’s blog post on this subject.