When an Etsy user searches for a product, Etsy’s advanced search algorithm goes to work in order to return the most accurate and relevant results. As a seller, understanding this algorithm and adapting your listings accordingly can significantly boost your visibility on the platform.

In this guide, we’ll share insights into how Etsy’s search system works and offer essential tips on how you can optimize your shop and listings.

Understanding Factors Influencing Etsy’s Search Placement

Etsy uses a combination of factors to ascertain which items will appear in a search and their respective order. It should be noted that these factors do not carry equal weight in determining the final results.

1. Relevance of Tags and Titles

The relevance between an item and a buyer’s search query is paramount; items that do not match the search terms will not be included in the results.

For instance, if someone searches for “banana backpack,” only items with both “banana” and “backpack” in their listing tags or titles will show up. Furthermore, the placement of these words matters - exact phrase matches are given more importance than individual word matches, with words at the beginning of titles carrying more weight than those nearer the end.

2. Relevance of Item Attributes

Much like keywords used in item tags and titles, relevant attributes provided about an item also play a role in its visibility on Etsy search. It is therefore advised to include as many accurate attributes as possible when listing your product. Here is additional guidance on how best to use attributes with your items.

3. Listing Quality

Etsy’s search algorithm also considers the potential success of individual items in search results, referred to as “listing quality.” If an item is clicked on, favorited, or purchased after appearing in a search result, these actions contribute positively to the item’s quality score.

Note: New shops and listings start with a neutral quality score.

4. Customer & Market Experience

Etsy values buyers’ experience. Therefore, a shop’s customer service record and its adherence to Etsy’s policies also factor into the placement of its items in search results. A strong track record of positive reviews, a comprehensive ‘About’ section, and detailed shop policies can all enhance your visibility in searches. However, past infringements or recent disputes can negatively affect your ranking.

5. Recency

In order to maintain fresh content for frequent shoppers, Etsy regularly updates its search algorithm to favor recently listed or relisted items.

6. Shop and Buyer Location

The location of both seller and buyer can influence Etsy’s search results. For example, many buyers from the EU prefer purchasing from local sellers or those based in neighboring countries. As such, local items may be slightly more prominent when searched from these specific regions. Furthermore, certain listings may be suppressed due to regional laws or restrictions.

Importance of Listing Translations in Search Results

It is crucial that all listing information including titles and tags are written in your chosen shop language upon registering on Etsy; otherwise, they won’t help improve your visibility. Etsy offers automatic translations but you are also free to translate yourself if preferred. To check your shop’s default listing language navigate through Shop Manager > Settings > Languages and translations. Read more about translating into other languages.

Enhancing Your Shop’s Visibility through Improved Search Factors

The power of keywords on Etsy cannot be overstated - they are the bridge that connects your unique products with potential buyers. The careful use of keywords in your tags, titles, listing descriptions, categories, and attributes can significantly improve the visibility of your listings. When these match a shopper’s query, your items have greater chances to appear in the search results. Several recommendations for optimizing your Etsy shop and listings are outlined below:

1. Use Specific Categories for Your Listings

Think of categories as additional tags for your product. By choosing the most specific subcategory for each item you list, you increase its chances of matching more searches. For instance, if you list an item under “Nail Stencils,” it will appear in all related category searches like “Craft Supplies” and “Makeup and Cosmetics.” Therefore, avoid duplicating phrases from categories in your tags.

Including additional specific information in your listings can help attract the right buyers, thereby improving your visibility.

2. Optimize Your Tags and Titles

Crafting Keyword-Optimized Titles:

While keywords in titles aid in matching user queries, they’re just one factor considered by Etsy’s search algorithm which looks into all provided information including categories and attributes.

Focus on writing concise yet descriptive titles keeping buyer behavior in mind rather than a computer algorithm. Overstuffing titles with long lists of keywords can confuse or deter potential customers. Take an approach that combines essential keywords while maintaining readability such as:

Confusing: “Personalized dopp kit men’s leather dopp kit groomsmen gift add a monogram”

Clear & Concise: “Monogrammed leather dopp kit groomsmen gift”

Remember to stick to accurate descriptors that comply with Etsy’s policies. Useful tips for crafting compelling titles for your items can be found here.

Tags: Your Secret Weapon for Enhanced Visibility

Tags are an essential tool on Etsy, acting as gateways that match your unique product with a shopper’s search. Each tag you add increases the chance of connecting with a buyer’s search, so it’s crucial to make full use of all 13 tags allowed by Etsy.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Tagging:

• Do use all 13 tags: Every tag is an opportunity to match with a shopper’s search.
• Do use multi-word phrases: Rather than single words, multi-word phrases offer more precision. For example, “custom bracelet” is stronger than “custom” and “bracelet.”
• Do consult your Shop Stats: Refresh the tags on listings getting less traffic and diversify the terms.
• Do consider synonyms and regional phrases: If you sell flip flops known as “thong sandals” in Australia, include both terms in your tags.
• Don’t repeat tags or categories and attributes: Duplicating these only limits opportunities for matching with diverse searches.
• Don’t include misspellings or multiple languages in your tags: Etsy’s system redirects shoppers who make common spelling errors, and auto-translates keywords based on the language set up during your shop’s creation.
• Don’t worry about plurals: Etsy’s search algorithm bases its matches on root words, meaning a search for “diaries” will still match listings tagged with “diary.”

Brainstorming Ideas for Tags:

To utilize all 13 tags effectively, consider what makes your products unique and how shoppers might search for those items. Your tags could fall into several categories:

• Descriptive Tags: These should clearly and accurately describe what your product is. For instance, “1920s cat brooch,” or “set of four coasters.”
• Materials and Techniques Tags: Highlight the uniqueness or custom nature of your product. Examples include: “hammered cuff,” “custom embroidery,” etc.
• Target Customer Tags: Think from the perspective of someone shopping for a gift. Use tags like: “gifts for boyfriend,” or “teacher gift.”
• Shopping Occasions Tags: Consider different events that might prompt a purchase, such as: “first anniversary” or “stocking stuffers.”
• Solution-Oriented Tags: If your products solve a particular problem or need, use tags like: “workout headbands,” or “lunch box decal.”
• Style-Based Tags: Use tags that describe the unique style of your products to reach shoppers who know what they’re looking for such as: “art deco lamp,” or “minimalist ring.”
• Size-Based Tags: Describing the size and shape of your products can help connect with shoppers looking for specific dimensions.

By strategically using all 13 tag opportunities provided by Etsy and following these guidelines, you can significantly boost visibility in search results while catering directly to shopper needs

3. Ensure Accurate Item Attributes

Attributes are extra details about your listings that act like additional tags to match shoppers’ queries. These include general aspects such as color and material or specifics like pattern or room type depending on the category chosen. It’s crucial to add all relevant attributes even if they’re broad - think “pink” over “magenta” or “Plants & trees” instead of “nature-inspired.”

Make sure you select the most relevant and appropriate attributes for each item. A comprehensive guide on using attributes is available here.

4. Encourage Shopper Engagement

• Showcase items with clear product photos that entice potential buyers.
• Ensure proper formatting of item thumbnails using the cropping tool.

5. Foster a Positive Customer Experience

Taking these steps will enhance customer experience and increase chances of receiving positive reviews:

• Accurately represent processing times through shipping profiles.
• Complete orders promptly to allow buyers to know when to expect their items.
• Craft an enticing About section by sharing your unique story (Here’s how).

For further assistance, consult the Seller Handbook which provides numerous resources on customer service.

6. The Role of Listing Descriptions

Listing descriptions play a crucial role in Etsy’s search ranking algorithm, contributing to the first phase of search ranking known as query matching. Aim to incorporate relevant keywords within the first few sentences but avoid simply copying your title or listing top keywords. Craft a sentence or two incorporating a few top keywords that maintain your brand’s voice and provide valuable information about your product.

With these strategies, you can effectively optimize your listings for Etsy’s search algorithm, increasing visibility and connecting with the right customers.

Need Further Help Optimizing Your Listings For Etsy Search?

Join the Community Forums to request a shop critique from experienced sellers or enroll in an Etsy U class to learn more about optimizing your listings for search.

Conclusion:

Mastering Etsy’s search algorithm is an instrumental part of your journey as an Etsy seller. By understanding and implementing the factors that enhance your product visibility, you can optimize your listings, gain more exposure, and ultimately, increase sales. Remember, success on Etsy isn’t just about listing items; it’s about strategic positioning in a dynamic marketplace. Regularly updating and fine-tuning your shop based on these guidelines will ensure you stay ahead of the competition and keep attracting customers to your unique products. There’s always more to learn in this ever-evolving platform — so stay curious, keep adapting, and watch your business grow!

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