MAKING PROGRESS
For those of you that are established bloggers and solopreneurs, you probably recall when you first began and had to wade through the waters filled with terms such as squeeze page, SEO, meta, keywords, evergreen, content, and marketing. These have inundated my brain this past week to the point that I’ve been unable to create any new products for my TpT store. I was on a roll and created three products that I’m proud of, and then…nothing.
This was due to the fact that I had to switch gears and work on my marketing strategy, which includes blogging, social media interactions, learning about SEO, choosing a social media scheduler, and creating Pinterest and Instagram covers. I’m struggling with managing to do all of those things PLUS create products, but just imagine how difficult it will be when I have to also teach! Where will I find the time? My summer is almost at an end, and I feel woefully behind on my side business.
There’s also the issue of me being in front of my laptop every free minute I have due to the vast amount that I still have yet to learn and do. This has led to immense guilt from not spending this time with my family while I can. Luckily my family understands (or so they say), and I make sure that when we go out and do that things that I’m very present and in the moment. That way when I’m back in front of my computer, I can feel like summer wasn’t a bust.
SOCIAL MEDIA MANIA
Back in January I’d read some information about how to successfully be a seller on TpT. I recall that one of the biggest factors for TpT success was being involved with Pinterest to promote one’s products. I’ve done just that, however I’ve also realized that Pinning isn’t enough. I need to interact with teachers organically through Instagram, Google +, and even Facebook (although I’m holding off on that for now).
I researched the various social media schedulers available, and tested out Buffer, Later, Tailwind, and Hootsuite. Out of these four, I decided to invest in Buffer. Not only does it allow me to post to Twitter, Google+, Instagram, and Pinterest, I can schedule posts from blogs and news sites that I frequent. The Pinterest options aren’t as robust as Tailwind, but it’s much more cost-effective for me, particularly since, at the time of this post, I have yet to sell a product.
I’ve DEFINITELY seen an increase in activity since using Buffer! I have far more followers on all platforms, and have been reTweeted and rePinned more than ever! It also helps with the insane task of promoting my products. I know that there’s more I can be doing, such as using promoted Pins on Pinterest, but I really need to make some money before I spend more!
SEEKING OUT MY TEACHERS
It’s hard to imagine how I will make an impact in an industry inundated with such talented solopreneurs. There are people on TpT that have been in the business since 2009! However, I have to just have faith in myself and believe that what I have to offer will be of value to someone. The trick is connecting with that someone who will buy my product.
Luckily there are a plethora of resources and experts who have helped me along the way. I listen to the Social Media Examiner’s podcast for tips on how to maximize my presence on social media, and Problogger’s podcast for how to improve my blog and visibility. What I love about listening to podcasts is that I can be doing something else like getting ready in the morning, and I’m still receiving valuable information. I look through Pinterest to find tips from other successful bloggers and sellers, and have also been encouraged through several Facebook groups that I belong to. While I’ve seen a few paid courses out there for successfully selling on TpT, I’m hoping I can figure out most of this on my own and with the support of others.
YOU GET WHAT YOU PUT INTO IT
If you’re at all considering be a seller on TpT, be advised that it’s more than just uploading a worksheet. I mean, sure, you could do just that, but don’t be surprised if your products don’t make it to the computers of many teachers. There are thousands upon thousands of products on Tpt, so you have to make sure your stuff is seen by a wide audience. Don’t be discouraged by the amount of work, since all of that hard work now will pay off in passive income down the line!
If you’re also just starting out and want to share your journey, or if you’re a veteran and have advice, please leave a comment below or reach out to me through social media!
This is such an important topic! Balancing creating content with marketing the content you’ve created is so hard, and takes a TON of time. I’ve noticed my eyes are straining so much because I spend so much time at my computer. I find I have to take breaks every once in a while to make sure I’m not hurting myself in my attempt to better myself by starting a blog/business.
I agree Nicole, taking breaks is important when you’re staring at the screen so much! I actually ordered some new glasses with a special blue-light filter on them that are JUST for looking at computer screens!
The worksheet is a good idea. I try to do my social media scheduling and blog posts gradually during the week by making notes of what I want to post then over two days posting it to be scheduled. So you have to make time 🙂
Melissa,
Thanks for your comment! Do you have a certain schedule that you keep or a social media scheduler?
-Kim