The Etsy SEO Search Visibility PROBLEMS Continue (what sellers can do now)

Etsy sellers are experiencing decreased traffic and sales, potentially due to an algorithm update, category changes, and the broader economic climate. While Etsy has not been transparent with sellers regarding these changes, the speakers suggest that sellers focus on controllable aspects like SEO, conversion optimization, Etsy ads, and email marketing to mitigate the impact and increase sales.

Etsy SEO Update Impact

• 00:00:00 Etsy sellers are reporting a significant decrease in traffic and sales following a recent SEO update. This update, possibly implemented around October 1st, has caused widespread issues. The speakers suggest that the algorithm changes, combined with broader economic factors, have negatively impacted Etsy sellers, creating uncertainty and a need to adapt.

Algorithm Shift and Changes

• 00:00:48 Etsy's recent algorithm update has changed how listings are ranked and displayed, impacting seller visibility and sales. The update coincided with broader changes to Etsy categories, further impacting sellers' ability to manage listings effectively. This has caused confusion and frustration among sellers as they struggle to understand how the changes will affect their businesses.

Seller Actions to Increase Sales

• 00:09:30 To address the decreased traffic and sales, the podcast suggests four actionable steps: double-check and optimize SEO to ensure listings are visible and properly categorized; optimize listings for conversions to ensure they effectively convert viewers into buyers; increase Etsy ad spending to expand reach and target new customers; and build and leverage an email list to promote sales, new products, and exclusive offers.

Etsy's Lack of Communication

• 00:08:16 Etsy's lack of clear communication and transparency about the recent algorithm updates and category changes is a major point of concern. The speakers believe that Etsy's failure to communicate effectively with sellers has led to frustration and distrust. They encourage Etsy to provide more information regarding the platform's performance and updates in order to rebuild trust and confidence amongst sellers.

Etsy's Future

• 00:09:02 Etsy's future depends on regaining seller trust and confidence. The speakers argue that Etsy's actions have sown seeds of distrust that may linger even if the broader economic environment improves. If sellers continue to lose faith in the platform, Etsy could lose its seller base and face serious challenges long-term. Etsy needs to improve its communication and be more transparent to avoid losing the platform's most valuable asset: its sellers.