Avoid These Etsy SEO Fails in 2024

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Myth #1: Editing the keywords of performing listings
3. Myth #2: Not waiting 60-90 days before tweaking keywords
4. Myth #3: Not refreshing eRank data
5. Myth #4: Only using one tool for research
6. Myth #5: Relying too much on Grades
7. Myth #6: Assuming rank is static
8. Myth #7: Starting keyword research too narrow or specific
9. Myth #8: Guessing keywords instead of using a research tool
10. Myth #9: Using Etsy search bar for primary research
11. Myth #10: Incorrectly filling out attributes
12. Myth #11: Not sharing Etsy shop on social media
13. Conclusion

The Top Etsy SEO Mistakes to Avoid in 2024

Are you an Etsy seller who is constantly bombarded with conflicting advice about SEO and best practices? Do you find yourself overwhelmed by the myths, fails, and bad practices that are preached by so-called Etsy gurus? You're not alone. In this article, we will debunk the top Etsy SEO mistakes to avoid in 2024, giving you the tools and strategies to strategize for success in the new year.

Myth #1: Editing the keywords of performing listings

One common mistake that Etsy sellers make is editing the keywords of listings that are already performing well. It may be tempting to tinker with the tags and titles of successful listings in an attempt to improve their performance even further. However, this can actually backfire and harm your listing's visibility in search.

When a listing is already performing well, it means that it is attracting views and making sales. By editing the keywords of a performing listing, you risk removing terms that were bringing in traffic and sales. Instead of making changes to performing listings, focus on optimizing underperforming listings or creating new listings with targeted keywords.

Myth #2: Not waiting 60-90 days before tweaking keywords

There is a common misconception that making changes to your Etsy SEO requires waiting 60-90 days for your listing to be re-indexed. This is simply not true. Waiting 60-90 days is not an indexing period; it is the average amount of time that Etsy boosts new listings in search to observe shopper interactions.

When you make changes to your tags and titles, it is important to give Etsy enough time to observe how shoppers interact with your listing based on the new keywords. Tweaking your SEO every day can interrupt this observation process. So, be patient and give your listings time to settle in before making further changes.

Myth #3: Not refreshing eRank data

If you use eRank.com for your keyword research, it is important to regularly refresh the data to ensure accuracy. eRank pulls data from Etsy's API, which means that it may not always be up-to-date in real-time. By refreshing your data, you can ensure that you are working with the most accurate and current information for your keyword research.

To refresh your eRank data, simply click on the pop-up window that appears when you log in to the platform. By staying on top of your data and using the most up-to-date information, you can make more informed decisions about your Etsy SEO strategies.

Myth #4: Only using one tool for research

When it comes to keyword research, it is important to use multiple tools to get a comprehensive view of the search landscape. While eRank.com is a popular choice for Etsy SEO, it is not the only tool available. There are many other tools that can provide valuable insights and streamline your research process.

For example, eRank's compare keywords tool allows you to compare the stats and search data of several keywords. The trend buzz tool shows you what is trending on Etsy at any given moment. By exploring different tools, you can uncover even more data and discover new keywords and trends to optimize your listings.

Myth #5: Relying too much on Grades

eRank's grading system within the listing audit tool is a valuable resource for ensuring that your listing follows Etsy's best practices. However, it is important not to rely too heavily on grades when it comes to your SEO success. Grades are not indicative of the success of your keywords or overall listing performance.

The grading system is a checklist that reviews your listing for compliance with Etsy's best practices. It does not take into account the in-depth analysis of your keywords or the actual performance of your listing. While grades can provide quick ideas for improvement, they should not be the sole deciding factor in your SEO strategies.

Myth #6: Assuming rank is static

Etsy's personalized search algorithm means that your search results will vary depending on your unique IP address and shopper habits. As a result, it is not possible to check your ranking on Etsy by searching for your listings within the Etsy search bar. This personalized search makes it difficult to gauge your true ranking in search.

To accurately check your rank, you can use eRank's rank checker tool, which shows your average position in search once personalization has been stripped. This tool provides valuable insights into where the average shopper will see your items in search and allows you to assess your SEO performance for specific keywords.

Myth #7: Starting keyword research too narrow or specific

When it comes to keyword research, it is important to start with broad terms and then refine your way down. Starting too narrow or too specific can limit your opportunities for visibility and ultimately hinder your SEO success. By starting broad, you can uncover stronger longtail keyword phrases that may be easier to rank for.

For example, if you are selling a beige wool chunky knit throw blanket, start by searching the term "blanket" in the keyword tool and then explore the keyword suggestions to find more specific and targeted phrases. Remember, specific keywords often indicate shopper intent and a higher likelihood of conversion.

Myth #8: Guessing keywords instead of using a research tool

One of the biggest mistakes Etsy sellers make is guessing keywords instead of using a proper research tool. While you may have a good understanding of what people might be searching for on Etsy, without actual data to support your guess, your efforts may be in vain.

Using a keyword research tool like eRank provides valuable insights into the monthly search volume of keywords and helps you identify the best keywords to use in your listing tags and titles. Additionally, these tools can provide information on search trends and help you optimize your listings for peak search periods.

Myth #9: Using the Etsy search bar as your primary research tool

While the Etsy search bar can provide some indications of popular search terms, it should not be relied upon as your primary keyword research tool. The search bar is consumer-centric and designed to help shoppers narrow down their searches, but it does not necessarily reflect actual search volumes or competition levels.

To get a clearer idea of the search volume and competition for specific terms, it is recommended to double-check the Etsy search bar suggestions using a keyword research tool like eRank. These tools provide more accurate data on search volumes, competition levels, and click-through rates, allowing you to make more informed decisions about your keyword selection.

Myth #10: Incorrectly filling out attributes

Attributes are a great way to categorize your products and provide additional details to shoppers. However, many sellers make the mistake of incorrectly filling out attributes, especially during the holiday season. Adding holiday-related attributes to items that are not themed for those holidays can lead to confusion and potentially harm your listing's visibility.

Attributes are meant to define the products you are selling and bridge the gap between the item and the shopper's search query. Holiday and occasion-specific attributes should only be added to listings that are actually themed for those holidays. Make sure to accurately fill out attributes that are relevant to your specific product to improve your listing's relevance and visibility.

Myth #11: Not sharing your Etsy shop on social media

Contrary to popular belief, sharing your Etsy shop on social media can be beneficial for your SEO and overall brand awareness. Some sellers believe that sharing their shop link on social media could hurt their shop's visibility within Etsy. However, promoting your shop on social media helps to generate external traffic, build brand awareness, and reduce reliance on Etsy SEO alone.

Sharing your shop link on social media can also improve your overall listing quality scores. While conversion rates from organic search within Etsy have a direct impact on your individual listings, external traffic and sales can positively influence your overall brand reputation. By leveraging social media platforms, you can reach a wider audience and attract more potential customers to your Etsy shop.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding and avoiding these top Etsy SEO mistakes can greatly improve your chances of success in 2024. By avoiding common misconceptions and implementing effective strategies, you can optimize your listings, attract more shoppers, and increase your sales. Remember to stay informed, conduct thorough research, and adapt your SEO strategies based on data and analysis. With the right approach, you can thrive as an Etsy seller in the coming year.