Etsy is an online marketplace that has gained immense popularity over the years. It is a platform for creative entrepreneurs to sell their handmade, vintage, and unique goods to customers worldwide. However, with over 4 million active sellers on Etsy, it can be challenging for sellers to stand out from the crowd and get their products noticed.
One way to improve the visibility of your products on Etsy is by optimizing your listings with tags and keywords. While tags and keywords may seem like the same thing, they serve different purposes. Tags are part of the metadata for your Etsy listing and exist only to tell Etsy’s search engine what your item is. On the other hand, keywords are essential when it comes to query matching, the first phase of search ranking, within Etsy’s search algorithm. Understanding the difference between the two and how to use them effectively can help sellers improve their chances of getting found by potential customers.
Understanding Etsy Tags
What are Etsy Tags?
Etsy tags are part of the metadata for your listing and are used to tell Etsy’s search engine what your item is. They are different from keywords in that they are not meant for the customer and are not visible on your listing. Instead, tags are used by Etsy’s algorithm to match your item to relevant searches.
Tags should be specific and descriptive, using words that accurately describe your item. You can use up to 13 tags per listing, so choose them carefully. Think about what words shoppers might use to search for your item and include those in your tags.
Why are Etsy Tags Important?
Etsy tags are important because they help your item get discovered by shoppers. When someone searches for an item on Etsy, the search algorithm looks for listings that match the search terms. If your tags are relevant and accurate, your item is more likely to appear in the search results.
Using relevant tags can also help improve your overall search ranking on Etsy. When you consistently use accurate tags that match your item, Etsy’s algorithm will recognize your shop as a trustworthy source of information. This can lead to higher visibility in search results and more sales for your shop.
Understanding Etsy Keywords
What are Etsy Keywords?
Etsy keywords are the words or phrases that you use to describe your products in your listings. These keywords are used by Etsy’s search engine to match your listings with the search terms that buyers are using. The keywords can be found in your listing titles, descriptions, tags, categories, and attributes.
Why are Etsy Keywords Important?
Etsy keywords are important because they help buyers find your products. If you use the right keywords, your listings will show up higher in the search results, which means more visibility and more sales. However, it’s not just about using any keywords; you need to use the right keywords.
To use the right keywords, you need to think like a buyer. What words or phrases would someone use to find your product? What are the unique features of your product that make it stand out? Use specific and descriptive keywords that accurately describe your product.
It’s also important to note that Etsy’s search algorithm takes into account the relevance of your keywords. This means that using irrelevant or misleading keywords can actually hurt your search ranking. So, make sure to use keywords that accurately describe your product and are relevant to what buyers are searching for.
The Difference Between Etsy Tags and Keywords
Definition of Etsy Tags and Keywords
Etsy tags and keywords are both used to help Etsy’s search engine understand what your item is and what it’s about. However, there is a key difference between the two. Keywords are what the customer types into Etsy search to find items. Tags, on the other hand, are not for the customer. Tags are part of the metadata for your Etsy listing. That is, they exist only to tell Etsy’s search engine what your item is.
How Etsy Tags and Keywords are Used
When a customer types a word into the Etsy search bar, Etsy’s search engine looks for listings that match that word. It looks at all the information you add, including your categories and attributes, to find keywords that match a shopper’s search. The search engine also looks at the tags you’ve added to your listing. If the tags match the customer’s search, your listing will appear in the search results.
Examples of Etsy Tags and Keywords
Here are some examples of Etsy tags and keywords:
| Etsy Tags | Etsy Keywords |
|---|---|
| Handmade | Statement Earrings |
| Unique | Boho Necklace |
| Minimalist | Dainty Bracelet |
| Sustainable | Upcycled Clothing |
In the table above, the tags are descriptive words that give a general idea about the item. The keywords, on the other hand, are specific words that describe the item in more detail. When creating tags and keywords, it’s important to think about the words that your potential customers might use to search for your product.
Etsy tags and keywords are both important for helping your listing appear in Etsy search results. While they serve a similar purpose, they have different roles in how they help the search engine understand your item. By using both tags and keywords effectively, you can increase the visibility of your Etsy shop and attract more potential customers.
Best Practices for Using Etsy Tags and Keywords
How to Choose the Right Etsy Tags
When choosing Etsy tags, think about what words a potential buyer might use to search for your item. Use descriptive words that accurately represent your product. Avoid using tags that are too broad or too specific, as this can make it harder for buyers to find your item.
How to Choose the Right Etsy Keywords
When choosing Etsy keywords, think about what words a potential buyer might use to search for your item. Use long-tail keywords that accurately describe your product. Avoid using keywords that are too broad or too specific, as this can make it harder for buyers to find your item.
Tips for Using Etsy Tags and Keywords Effectively
- Use all 13 tags available to you.
- Use a mix of single-word tags and long-tail tags.
- Don’t repeat tags or keywords.
- Don’t use irrelevant tags or keywords.
- Don’t use tags or keywords that violate Etsy’s policies.
- Update your tags and keywords regularly to stay relevant.
By following these best practices, you can increase the visibility of your Etsy shop and attract more potential buyers. Remember to use descriptive and accurate tags and keywords, and to update them regularly to stay relevant.
Conclusion
While Etsy tags and keywords are often used interchangeably, they serve different purposes. Tags are part of the metadata for your Etsy listing and exist only to tell Etsy’s search engine what your item is. Keywords, on the other hand, are the words that customers use to search on Etsy.
By using strong keywords in your listing, you create an opportunity for your items to be shown in search results. However, it is important to note that simply using popular keywords does not guarantee success. It is essential to use relevant and specific keywords that accurately describe your item.
I hope you found this guide covering the difference between Etsy tags and keywords, useful! To learn more Etsy tips and tricks, check out the Thrive on Etsy Blog!