How to Use the Right Tags (and All 13 of Them) for Your Etsy Listing

“Etsy listing optimization can be tricky, but mastering it is key! Learn how to effectively use all 13 tags without repetition and boost your product's visibility with simple tips for better Etsy SEO.”

Don’t worry! Etsy tags are one of the best ways to help people find your shop, so it’s worth spending a little time to get them right. Let’s dive into how to choose the best tags and how to make sure you’re using all 13 to their fullest potential.

The Problem: How Do You Choose the Right Tags Without Repeating Yourself?

It seems simple at first: just describe your product, right? But before you know it, you’ve run out of ideas after 3 or 4 tags, and you’re thinking, “Should I just repeat myself? Do I need all 13 tags in my etsy listing?” The answer is yes—use them all! The more tags you use, the more chances you have for your product to appear in search results.

Step 1: Think Like a Shopper (Not a Seller)

The key to choosing the right tags is to put yourself in the shoes of your potential customer. What would they type into the search bar to find your product? Think ‘Who What Where/How'. Who would use it, What would they use it for and where or how would they use it? Start with the most obvious terms, and then think about the variations they might use.

For example, let’s say you’re selling a “boho wall art print.” You can use:

  • “boho wall art”
  • “boho print”
  • “wall art print”

But don’t stop there! Consider the different ways people might search for this same product. Maybe they’ll look for:

  • “bohemian decor”
  • “printable art”
  • “boho room decor”

Keep your shopper in mind and try to cover all the different ways they could search for something like yours.

Step 2: Mix Up Broad and Specific Tags

When it comes to Etsy tags, balance is key. You want a mix of broad terms that apply to lots of products and more specific terms that are unique to yours. The broad tags help you get seen by more people, while the specific ones make sure you show up in searches for exactly what you’re offering.

Broad tags could be things like:

  • “wall art”
  • “home decor”
  • “printable”

Specific tags could be:

  • “boho art print”
  • “sunflower wall art”
  • “minimalist boho decor”

This way, you’re casting a wide net while still targeting the right audience.

Step 3: Use Different Forms of Keywords

People don’t always type the same exact phrase into Etsy’s search bar. They might search in singular form, plural, or even use slightly different phrasing. So, use that to your advantage! For example, if you’re selling a planner, you could use both:

  • “planner”
  • “planners”
  • “daily planner”
  • “weekly planner”

This helps you cover your bases without being repetitive. If someone searches for “planners” instead of “planner,” you’ll still show up!

Step 4: Don’t Forget Long-Tail Keywords

Long-tail keywords are those multi-word phrases that shoppers might use when looking for something super specific. These are gold because they can bring in people who know exactly what they want—and you’ve got it!

For example, instead of just “wall art,” you could use:

  • “boho printable wall art”
  • “minimalist abstract wall art”
  • “instant download wall art”

These longer tags might have fewer searches, but the people using them are ready to buy. Plus, Etsy loves it when you get specific.

Step 5: Include Synonyms and Related Terms

Sometimes, shoppers are searching for something without even knowing the exact term for it. That’s where synonyms and related keywords come in. Maybe they won’t search for “boho wall art,” but they might type in:

  • “bohemian decor”
  • “hippie wall art”
  • “eclectic home decor”

By covering these similar terms, you’re making sure your product shows up even if the shopper doesn’t know the exact name for what they’re looking for.

Step 6: Use Regional Terms or Holidays (If They Apply)

Is your product something people might search for seasonally or for a special event? Include those tags! If you sell seasonal or giftable items, think about how people search at different times of the year.

For example, if you’re selling a digital planner, you could add:

  • “Christmas gift for her”
  • “teacher appreciation gift”
  • “Mother’s Day gift”

And don’t forget regional terms! People from different countries use different words. For example:

  • “colour” vs. “color”
  • “favourite” vs. “favorite”

If your product has international appeal, make sure to use those variations.

Step 7: Check Out What’s Working for Others

A little market research can go a long way. Check out similar listings in your category and see what tags they’re using. This can give you new ideas for terms you might not have thought of. Just make sure you’re still being authentic and relevant to your product.

Step 8: Don’t Waste Tags on Repeats

It can be tempting to repeat your shop name or product name in the tags, but don’t! Etsy already knows your shop name, and repeating the same word in your etsy listing doesn’t give you any extra boost. Use each tag for a new idea to maximize your chances of being found in search results.

Final Thoughts: Maximize Those 13 Tags!

Using all 13 tags on your Etsy listing is like giving your product 13 different ways to be found by the perfect customer. It’s totally worth the extra time to think through your keywords and get creative. Think like a shopper, use variations, and make the most of broad and specific terms.

The more angles you cover, the better chance you have to get your amazing product in front of the right people. So go ahead—fill up those tags and watch your product shine!

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