Unveiling Etsy's Share and Save Program: Worth it or Not?
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What is the Etsy Share and Save program?
- How to join the Share and Save program
- Clicking join now
- Terms and conditions
- How the Share and Save program works
- Refunds on transaction fees
- Authorized channels for sharing
- Tracking URLs
- Pros and cons of participating in the Share and Save program
- Pros
- Easy to join
- Potential for refunds on transaction fees
- Cons
- Limited eligibility for refunds
- Restrictions on sharing links
- Alternatives to the Share and Save program
- Etsy Affiliate program
- Creator Co program
- Comparison with Share and Save
- How to opt out of the Share and Save program
- Understanding legal implications and disclosure requirements
- Federal Trade Commission guidelines
- Disclosures for affiliate links
- Why Etsy introduced the Share and Save program
- Advertising cost savings
- Benefits for sellers and Etsy
- Conclusion
Introduction
In this article, we will explore the Etsy Share and Save program, a rebate program offered by Etsy to eligible sellers. We will discuss how the program works, how to join, and the potential pros and cons of participating. Additionally, we will provide information on alternative programs such as the Etsy Affiliate program and the Creator Co program. It is important to understand the legal implications and disclosure requirements when participating in such programs. Lastly, we will delve into the reasons why Etsy introduced the Share and Save program and its potential benefits for sellers.
What is the Etsy Share and Save program?
The Etsy Share and Save program is a rebate program offered by Etsy to eligible sellers. It is not an affiliate program, but rather a program that provides sellers with a refund on their transaction fees for qualifying transactions. This program allows sellers to receive a 4% refund on their transaction fees for each qualifying transaction made through links shared on authorized channels.
How to join the Share and Save program
Joining the Etsy Share and Save program is simple. As an eligible Etsy seller, all you need to do is click the "join now" button on the program page. Unlike the Etsy Affiliate program or the Creator Co program, no application is required. However, it is important to review and understand the terms and conditions of the program before joining.
How the Share and Save program works
When a seller participates in the Share and Save program, they have the potential to receive a refund on their transaction fees for qualifying transactions made through shared links. These links should only be shared on authorized channels such as owned and operated social media pages, websites, blogs, and emails. Transactions concluded via URLs shared or linked on the Etsy platform itself are not eligible for refunds.
To ensure proper tracking and eligibility for refunds, it is important to use the provided tracking URLs and include the entire code in the link. This tracking code helps Etsy identify and credit the qualifying transactions to the participating seller. It is also worth noting that any transaction refunds or customer refunds will affect the eligibility for refunds under the Share and Save program.
Pros and cons of participating in the Share and Save program
Pros
- Easy to join: The process to join the Share and Save program is simple and requires just a few clicks.
- Potential for refunds on transaction fees: Participating sellers have the opportunity to receive a 4% refund on their transaction fees, providing some cost savings.
Cons
- Limited eligibility for refunds: Only transactions made through shared links on authorized channels qualify for refunds. Transactions concluded via URLs shared or linked on the Etsy platform itself are not eligible for refunds.
- Restrictions on sharing links: Sellers are prohibited from sharing links on the Etsy platform, including the Etsy app. They must also ensure they are not violating any spam laws or engaging in unsolicited promotion.
Alternatives to the Share and Save program
If the Share and Save program does not meet your needs or you are looking for alternative programs, there are a few options offered by Etsy.
Etsy Affiliate program
The Etsy Affiliate program is specifically designed for bloggers and social media influencers who primarily drive traffic to Etsy through their websites or social media platforms. It allows sellers to earn a commission for referred sales, including sales made from their own shop. The program offers more flexibility in terms of promoting other sellers' products and provides the opportunity to earn a commission on a broader range of purchases.
Creator Co program
The Creator Co program is aimed at individuals who primarily drive traffic to Etsy through their social media platforms and do not necessarily have a dedicated blog or website. Similar to the Etsy Affiliate program, it allows sellers to earn a commission for referred sales, including sales made from their own shop. The Creator Co program provides additional tools and resources for social media promotion.
Comparing these alternative programs with the Share and Save program can help you determine which one aligns best with your selling strategies and goals.
How to opt out of the Share and Save program
If you decide that the Share and Save program is not suitable for your needs, you can opt out of the program by following the instructions provided on the program's page. There is a clear opt-out button to click, which will remove you from the program.
Understanding legal implications and disclosure requirements
When participating in programs like the Etsy Share and Save program, it is important to understand the legal implications and disclosure requirements. The Federal Trade Commission guidelines state that disclosures are necessary when promoting affiliate links unless the relationship between the seller and the product is clear to the customer. In the case of the Share and Save program, where there is a direct relationship between the seller and the product being promoted, disclosures may not be required. However, if you are promoting affiliate links outside of this program, it is essential to comply with the disclosure guidelines to avoid legal issues.
Why Etsy introduced the Share and Save program
Etsy introduced the Share and Save program as a way to leverage the existing seller community to drive traffic and reduce advertising costs. By giving sellers the opportunity to share links and potentially receive refunds on transaction fees, Etsy can benefit from increased visibility and sales without incurring significant advertising expenses. The program also provides a means for sellers to support and promote their own shops, further enhancing their selling opportunities on the platform.
Conclusion
The Etsy Share and Save program is a rebate program offered to eligible sellers, allowing them to receive refunds on their transaction fees for qualifying transactions made through shared links on authorized channels. While the program has its limitations and restrictions, it offers an opportunity for sellers to potentially save on their fees and contribute to increased sales on Etsy. It is important to understand the terms and conditions, legal implications, and the alternative programs available to make an informed decision about participation.
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