Best Practices: Vendors & Artists
The pandemic has resulted in a rise for virtual events. For vendors and artists setting up their virtual shop for the first time can be nerve-wrecking. So, here’s a couple of preliminary points to keep in mind while creating your page.
DOS:
1. Highlight your logo/brand!
2. Create an appealing page by having:
a. Multiple views of each product.
b. A detailed description of each item.
c. Insights or stories about the product.
d. Clean categories to classify and search.
e. Clearly label return and refund policies.
f. If you have an artwork, show it on a wall, or in a showroom! Give examples so potential customers can use their own imagination!
3. Differentiate between your product and profile pictures.
4. Set up your shop WEEKS in advance:
5. Use Youtube videos for:
a. Storytelling.
b. Booth setup.
c. A glance at how your work is created.
d. Testimonials.
e. Success stories.
6. Connect your page to all your social media!
7. Market yourself through personal channels AND the event channels.
a. TAG everyone to get the most exposure.
b. Repost, comment, share as much content as you can.
8. Have good packaging with customized notes.
9. Ask customers to “follow” you & follow up with customers after they’ve received the items.
10. List as many products you can! The platform and the “Virtual” booths give artists the chance to show off their larger and/or more unique pieces! Artists & vendors do not need to carry these items “in-person”, they just need to be listed online!
a. Statistics show: Artists and Vendors who have 40+ items do 4x better in sales.
11. Be aware of the products you’ve listed.
12. The platform will show “sold out” when items are no longer available, but make sure to restock or add the option of pre-order.
DON’TS:
1. Do not set up your shops last minute!
2. Do not focus too much on Zoom. It’s an added bonus!
a. Zoom aids with helping customers understand details and closing the deal, but will not help with getting the products noticed!
3. Avoid generic language when listing/describing the product!
4. Do not complain or bash on social media (& other platforms) about not selling products, other vendors/ artists, events, or personal frustrations.
a. Please remember everything shows up on Google, and this can affect your brand image.
b. Be mindful of the language used in any conversation.
Looking for a place to set up your virtual shop and become involved in a international virtual marketplace? Check out www.eventeny.com!