In the ever-evolving landscape of eCommerce, understanding where and how to sell your products can make a world of difference. Recently, I sat down with Dylan Jahraus, an e-commerce expert with a decade of experience under her belt, to explore the nuances of selling on platforms like Etsy and Amazon. Here’s a detailed insight into our conversation, aimed at helping you make more informed choices for your business.
Meet Dylan Jahraus
Dylan resides in San Diego, California. Her journey into e-commerce began with a solid corporate background working with brands like Zappos and Zulily. However, the nature of her husband’s military career, which required frequent moves, prompted her to shift gears, one of which was launching successful side hustles. Her venture into Etsy turned out to be a gold mine, eventually expanding into platforms like Amazon and Shopify.
The Value of Selling on Multiple Platforms
One of the common misconceptions among product businesses is the underutilization of sales channels. Many entrepreneurs stick to selling through their websites, overlooking platforms like Etsy and Amazon which can offer substantial visibility. Dylan emphasizes how these platforms provide an avenue for customer acquisition and brand visibility which can be a game-changer for any business.
Understanding the Unique Audience of Each Platform
Dylan points out the distinct differences in the audiences that frequent these platforms. For instance, Etsy tends to attract customers looking for unique, often handmade items, while Amazon has a broader appeal, often associated with quick retail purchases. Knowing your audience allows you to tailor your strategies to better suit the platform’s strengths.
Starting Small and Scaling Smart
For those entering the Amazon space, Dylan advises starting with your proven best-sellers instead of your entire product range. Personalized products, she notes, provide a significant edge when it comes to returns policies on platforms like Amazon.
Tools and Strategies for Scaling Your Business
Investing in tools such as lasers for customization has been a pivotal move in Dylan’s journey. She shares insights into how such investments can drastically reduce production times and increase profitability. Additionally, thinking outside the box and leveraging B2B sales can be a vital growth strategy. Engaging with teams or groups can result in bulk orders that bolster your business’s bottom line.
The Benefit of Market Research and Adaptation
Dylan underscores the importance of continuous market research. She advises not to rely solely on Etsy for trend-spotting as it generally lags in the latest market shifts. Instead, check out platforms like Pinterest or TikTok to gauge upcoming trends and market demands.
Considerations for Pricing and Margin
Dylan suggests looking at pricing as a flexible lever rather than a fixed constraint. As a business scales, volume becomes a pivotal factor in determining profitability. Early on, establishing a broader customer base may be more valuable than maintaining a specific profit margin.
Conclusion: The Power of diversification and Proactivity
The wealth of ideas and strategies shared by Dylan highlights the importance of not limiting your e-commerce business to one platform. With minimal effort, your products can gain tremendous exposure. Explore these avenues and be proactive in reaching out to potential bulk buyers. With tools, strategy, and a willingness to adapt, scaling your business effectively is within reach.
For more tips and personalized advice, you can find Dylan Jahraus on her YouTube channel or connect with her on Instagram @DylanJahraus, where she is eager to engage with businesses and provide insights tailored to your needs.
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