Double Down on What’s Working: The Secret to Growing Your Handmade Business

How to Focus on Proven Strategies and Maximize Your Bottom Line

As handmade sellers, it’s easy to get swept up in the latest trends, from TikTok Shop launches to brands doing crazy numbers on Faire. But if you want to grow your business and make the most of your time, doubling down on what’s currently working is the most impactful strategy you can embrace vs a bad case of FOMO.

Let’s break down why focusing on what’s already successful is your best move, how to use the data at your fingertips, and where to find the transparency you need to make data-driven decisions.

Why Double Down? The Stats Don’t Lie

The excitement of new platforms and trends can create a serious case of FOMO (fear of missing out). But remember: what works for others might not be the best move for your business. Instead of jumping on every new platform or trend, think about the 80/20 rule: 80% of your results come from 20% of your efforts. If you already have strategies driving consistent results, doubling down on those can bring the most impact to your bottom line.

If you’re already seeing steady growth from a particular sales channel or product line, it’s a clear sign to lean in further. You’ll have more control, more predictability, and can refine your approach to boost your success without spreading yourself too thin. Expanding is valuable, but not at the cost of abandoning what’s currently working.

Measuring Success: Using What’s Transparent and Available

Not all platforms are created equal when it comes to insights. Sites like Etsy, for instance, offer only a limited overview of your performance. This lack of transparency can be frustrating when you’re trying to understand your growth patterns. I’ve been there: one day, you’re making consistent $1,500 sales, and the next day, sales dip to $135 with no clear reason why. Without clear data, it’s tough to know if you’re part of a random test or if there’s something else at play.

On the other hand, platforms like Amazon and Shopify provide much more transparency and control. Amazon, for example, offers powerful tools like Helium 10 that allow you to look under the hood, see detailed insights, and make strategic decisions based on what’s actually happening with your listings.

Shopify, too, offers strong analytics to help you track where your traffic and conversions are coming from.

If you’re selling on a platform that gives you robust insights, use that data to guide your decisions. Track the trends in your sales, understand what products are bringing in the most revenue, and focus your energy on maximizing those areas.

Actionable Tips: How to Focus and Scale What’s Working

Here’s how you can make the most of your winning strategies:

1. Identify Your Top-Performing Products or Channels

Take a look at your analytics—whether on Amazon, Shopify, or through tools you’re using—and identify your best sellers or top-performing sales channels. Which products consistently bring in revenue? Where are most of your customers discovering you? These insights reveal where your business is strongest and can guide you on where to focus.

2. Invest in High-Impact Areas

Once you know what’s working, invest more into those areas. For example, if you’re seeing success with a particular product line, consider adding new variations or expanding it. If a specific platform is bringing you the most customers, allocate more budget or time to optimize your presence there.

3. Optimize Existing Content and Listings

Instead of creating new listings or content from scratch, go back to your top-performing ones and optimize them. Use strong, keyword-rich descriptions, high-quality images, and clear calls to action. This ensures you’re making the most of what’s already driving sales, enhancing visibility, and boosting conversions.

4. Measure What Matters

Focus on metrics that actually impact your bottom line—such as conversion rate, average order value, and customer retention. Tracking these key metrics keeps you focused on growth and helps you avoid getting distracted by vanity metrics (like views or likes) that don’t translate directly to sales.

5. Use Tools for Deeper Insights

If you’re on Amazon, tools like Helium 10 and their robust community provide in-depth keyword data, competitor analysis, and real-time performance insights. Shopify’s analytics can show you where traffic is coming from and which marketing channels convert best. Leverage these tools to dive deeper into customer behavior, adapt quickly, and amplify what’s working.

Expanding Smartly: Balance Growth with Focus

Now, I’m not saying never try new things. Expansion is part of growth, and trying out new platforms can be valuable. But the key is to stay grounded in what’s already working. By focusing on the areas that bring the highest returns, you’ll have the stability to explore other platforms or trends when the timing is right—without compromising what’s proven.

The Takeaway? Stick with Your “Lowest Hanging Fruit”

In a world of endless options, sticking with what’s working is often the smartest way to scale. Double down on what’s driving real revenue for your business. Use data, tools, and insights to your advantage, and remember that sometimes the best strategy is simply to focus on where your business is thriving. You’ll have more clarity, more predictability, and a bigger impact on your bottom line