#the old set had instagram carousel labels this set is better

[waffledoctor2]

Throw dirt on me and grow a wildflower But it's, "Fuck the world", get a child out her

Tyler. More than meets the eye. You got any snacks? You got games on your phone?

Send HOOK.

@ troubledtaco

[cindylouwho-2]

RECENT NEWS, RESOURCES & STUDIES, July 19 2020

Welcome to my latest summary of recent ecommerce news, resources & studies including search, analytics, content marketing, social media & Etsy! This covers articles, podcasts, videos and infographics I came across since the late June report, although some may be older than that.

I‘m still working on Etsy search testing and a few new blog posts and pages for my website, so it is still difficult for me to get this summary out more than 1-2 times a month. All suggestions on solutions to my time crunch are welcome. 

If you have an questions, comments or suggestions about my Tumblr or my blog, please contact me here or on my website. I’d love to know what you think! 

TOP NEWS & ARTICLES 

Latest change from Google: the free Google Shopping listings will now show up in US organic search as part of product knowledge panels. Unfortunately, since they are only doing this for product knowledge panels to begin with, it likely won't help handmade sellers, but could be useful to sellers of vintage & supply items that are known products that will have a knowledge panel. It may be a sign that they are planning on moving free ads to more Google "surfaces" over time, however. Note that it appears that all product knowledge panel ads will be free starting this summer (US only), so that means that any Etsy paid ads for these types of items will become free ads that you won't have to pay EOA fees on if you get a sale. Google claims the free ads are bringing more searcher engagement to Shopping.  

Amazon announced they will begin to show US sellers’ business name and address on the Seller Profile page as of September 1. The same requirement already exists in Europe, Japan and Mexico. 

The USPS will no longer be delivering mail as promptly every day, to cut costs. This potentially affects anyone shipping to a destination in the United States. 

How 7 different companies grew profits during the last recession - there will still be business opportunities during the upcoming recession, but you have to be positioned to take them. 

ETSY NEWS 

Etsy Labels no longer offer USPS international shipping options for all packages under 4.4 pounds other than Canadian orders, replacing them with the Global Postal Shipping Program (GPSP). Many US sellers dislike the GPSP, and have moved on to outside providers that integrate with an Etsy shop and other services, such as Pirate Ship, Shippo, Stamps, and Shipstation. 

The quarterly category & attributes updates are limited to face mask & hand sanitizer attributes for July. Etsy also made some other minor updates recently, including allowing us to set a message auto reply for up to 5 days. 

You may have noticed that Etsy is really pushing Etsy Ads on sellers right now, despite the numerous complaints about the average cost per click becoming far too high last year. I’ve turned mine off permanently, but if you are interested in trying them or fine-tuning them, Etsy released an article and a related podcast with a transcript.

Louisiana and Mississippi have been added to the list of states that Etsy collects sales tax from. 

Etsy raised fees on Reverb to 5%, “to make further investments on behalf of our sellers.” 

Etsy will release the second quarter results on August 5. We already know that April and May were record-setting, and June was also probably pretty good. 

The site has continued to receive decent media coverage for the mask initiative; Etsy is mentioned in several articles/broadcasts a day as a place to get masks, including stylish ones. This article briefly interviews a seller and looks at what Etsy will do next, as the mask demand peak might be over. 

Now that people think of Etsy for things like face masks, Etsy is continuing to market itself as a place to buy everyday items, something it shied away from for a few years. (Remember when Etsy was all about “owning special”?) They’ve added ���Everyday Finds” links & Editors Picks pages, and have published tips on what pandemic shoppers are looking for. (Note that the year over year values compare this April to last April, and so were during peak lockdown for the US.)  “Keeping surfaces clean is top of mind these days, and shoppers are searching on Etsy for many types of cleaners, from all-purpose scrubs to washable sponges...134% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “ceramic sponge holder.”...”74% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “mug”...”352% YoY increase in searches on Etsy containing “diy”.

Please correct me if I am wrong, but this page on the search and ads algorithms appears to be relatively new. 

SEO: GOOGLE & OTHER SEARCH ENGINES 

The sea change in online buyer behaviour during the pandemic may mean that you need to update your keyword research. Keyword volumes have changed, some very dramatically. For example “‘adult bikes’ shows a massive upturn.This represents over ten times as many searches for this term compared to just under a year ago. If you projected this back in 2019 you’d probably be laughed at.”

Speaking of keyword research, if you need a refresher on why you should do it and how to approach it, here is a recent article. 

There are many different ways to get backlinks; here are a few that are pretty easy [video & text]. 

Are longer blog posts better for SEO? Not necessarily, as long as you cover the topic well. The exception is that blog posts under 300 words are usually not worth writing. 

Most SEOs think there was an unannounced Google update around the third week of June. Some are reporting that sites that specialize made gains, as opposed to those who have more general material. That same study reports Etsy had one of the largest traffic increases, but not as much as Pinterest (I’ve been seeing a lot more pins when Googling lately, so this seems likely.) Government websites also seem to have received better visibility. “As Google has described in their document on how they fight disinformation, they describe that their systems are designed to prefer authority over other factors “in times of crisis”. If this truly is related to what we saw happen in June, these changes could possibly be reversed once the worldwide pandemic situation improves.”

Bing released a few basic tips on how to use its keyword planner. 

(CONTENT) MARKETING & SOCIAL MEDIA (includes blogging & emails) 

TikTok has moved out of Hong Kong, while the US government may be looking at banning them, following India’s move on July 6. With TikTok in peril, many people are now downloading its competitor Byte. 

If you use Facebook for your business, please read up on the changes required to comply with California’s new privacy law. 

Instagram is now testing an Instagram Shop tab, which allows users to filter by category. 

Twitter is planning on starting a subscription service, but deleted some of the details  from the job listing just hours later. 

One of the results of the big Twitter hack on July 15th was Google removing the Twitter carousel from its search results. 

Pinterest searches involving Christmas started way earlier this year, with a 77% increase YOY in April. “That includes a 3x increase in searches for “Christmas gift ideas”, while other queries like “holiday recipes” and “Christmas” were up more than 90% and 80% respectively.” These are good stats for marketers to have, helping us decide when to release and promote new products.

ONLINE ADVERTISING (SEARCH ENGINES, SOCIAL MEDIA, & OTHERS) 

Spending too much on Facebook ads? Here are some common mistakes and some suggestions on fixing them. 

If you already know that ROAS stands for “return on ad spend” then some of this article may be old news to you. 

STATS, DATA, OTHER TRACKING 

If you are using Google Shopping with your website, be aware that the Google bots may be inflating your abandoned cart rate. 

Google Analytics can help you track the effects of changes to your website, or other business conditions. You can also get alerts when certain types of events happen, or when traffic is abnormal. 

ECOMMERCE NEWS, IDEAS, TRENDS 

Walmart is expected to launch Walmart+, similar to Amazon Prime, this month. But note that while many brick & mortar businesses are now doing a lot more business online, it is more expensive for them. 

For those of you who use Stitch Labs, they have been purchased by Square, and the existing services will likely be cut in 2021. 

Deja vu for Etsy sellers - eBay was apparently offering incentive payments for signing up for their new Managed Payments system by mid-July. (Etsy did the same with its Etsy Payments system, but only for Americans.)

Is Amazon Handmade as good for small makers as it claims? Maybe not. If you sell on Amazon, consider these strategies to protect your core business from being swamped by the big A. 

Wix has introduced an ecommerce version with a lot more options and integrations. 

Shopify’s new “Shop” app has some good features but also some issues. [podcast & edited transcript]

BigCommerce filed to go public, and added Ayden as a payment option. More details on the Ayden move here. 

Did you know there are sites you can use to sell your ecommerce business? Here are 10 of them. 

BUSINESS & CONSUMER STUDIES, STATS & REPORTS; SOCIOLOGY & PSYCHOLOGY, CUSTOMER SERVICE 

US ecommerce sales are now expected to grow 18% this year, while overall retail is predicted to be down 10.5%. “In a pandemic economy, consumers have gravitated toward trusted and reliable retailers. As a result, we can expect the top 10 ecommerce retail businesses to grow at above average rates (21.8%). Amazon will gain US ecommerce market share this year, while Walmart's accelerating ecommerce growth will take it to the No. 2 position for the first time.”

Fear of missing out (FOMO) is a factor you can use to drive sales; here are 6 tips. 

Generation Z is acutely attached to internet use, and is more likely to be planning on starting their own business than any other generation. 

MISCELLANEOUS 

It’s possible that the increase in people working from home will lead to more work hours and therefore more burnout.

[wazzuptonight]

New York, NY – With the Entertainment Industry revolving on a never-ending carousel; it’s the power players behind the scene that’s withstanding its uncertainty.  With that being said, Ladies and Gentlemen, I formally Introduce you to one of the most influential Industry heads in the biz, Ms  “Onyx”.  For the past 10 years, just about every name in the music and fashion industry has crossed paths with Ms. Onyx in one facet of the game or another. Publicist/ Manager/ Artist/ Songwriter/ and Executive Producers are just a few of the hats hanging in Ms. Onyx closet these days. While amassing an impressive track record, she has become one of the most sought after execs in Music with her keen ability to sniff out potential and nurturing it into stardom. It’s been powerful women like Onyx that is holding the game down as the industry undertakes a total shift in the face of switching from analog to digital streaming applications.

  It all began in early 2000 when Onyx arrived in Killeen on a mission to excel in the realm of entertainment. For those who may not be aware Killeen, Texas lies roughly 45 miles north of Austin and is considered one of the fastest growing entertainment hubs in Texas. Onyx noticed immediately upon arrival, the growing landscape for hip-hop was present; however, the field was untapped with talent in search of an identity. There at that moment, a vision was birthed thence giving way to a strong desire fueled by a passion for changing lives.

Vision without action is merely a dream. Action without vision just passes the time. Vision with action can change the world. ~Joel A. Barker

 Onyx went to work using the brick and mortar approach of setting goals to provide avenues and lanes for artist a priority.  One thing led to another and just like that a spark was ignited that would later mature into a movement. Deemed the last of a dying breed, Onyx personifies the true meaning of an A&R / Talent Scout / and Personality all in one. What better person to be considered an authority on the subject of the needs and concerns of the independent artist? The answer is simple, an artist. Onyx trials and tribulations as an independent artist can be accounted and attributed to dropping her own projects. Onyx scored commercial success with the hits, “Cut wit U”, and “Slow Wine” featuring TIa Evette which solidified her place on the R&B charts. However, its Onyx first love of educating and mentoring up and coming artist that draws close to her passion. In 2010, Onyx opened up a full-service Entertainment Conglomerate, equipped with a fully functional website www.queenofkilleen.com which serves as a one-stop shop for aspiring artist providing everything from music consultations to songwriting arrangements.  Greatness comes with a charge, and with that charge comes the challenge to go further and beyond.  

 Further and beyond can only explain the path that has led Onyx to her destiny. Somewhere along the path where many detour to complacency, Onyx holds it in the road with faith at the wheel. In 2011, through a leap of faith, Onyx created her very own online radio show, labeled the Cut after her hit “The Cut”. Through networking and connections, the show was later added to Jermaine Dupri’s Global 14 network and subsequently named Global 14|The Cut which she serves as Executive Producer alongside her co-host Goldenfleece. The rest is history folks! From Eric Bellinger, Dj Scream, Musiq Soulchild, and even the likes of R&B sensation JR Castro, Onyx has had the distinct pleasure of bringing superstars into our realm of reality. While utilizing the skills from her many guest and visionary pioneer Jermaine Dupri, Onyx is in a great space with an unlimited cap to reach epic milestones.  

From the ways things are looking for 2017, it would take a nation of millions to hold Onyx back. As the youngsters would proclaim in these days’, she is plain and simply referred to in many circles as the plug! Deservingly so, Onyx network is bound by an affiliation that runs deep and threaded from coast to coast. Besides being a member of the #1 record breakers in the nation (XSquaddj’s), Onyx also serves as the founder of ThePostUpShow = A newly formed pop up informative show which features live interviews from kids on subjects that kids like.  Wow, its concepts and ideas that keep Onyx one step ahead of her competition. Whether it’s interviewing the next up and coming artist, Producing a live show, or managing a hot roster of artist (Young Mayne).

Analyst predict the Music Industry will produce numbers exceeding 300 Billion for the 2017 fiscal year.  You can rest assure, Onyx will definitely stakes her claim as she continues to trailblaze with a passion that won’t be denied. ~ Renzo

Tune In Every Wednesday

Global 14| The Cut

Twitter || Instagram | Website

We caught up with Onyx in Las Vegas for an all access Interview

January 2017

WT: Who is Onyx? Where did your love for entertainment originate? Onyx: Ohio made, Texas raised.  For as long as I can remember I have always had a love for the Arts.  I’m sure my mother had a lot to do with that seeing as how she was a pageant winner and vocalist.  Although we never had a chance to meet, my grandmother was a model and activist during her time.  I grew up listening to a lot of Earth Wind & Fire, Stevie Wonder, Anita Baker, Nat King Cole and others alike. At age 4 I knew what I wanted to be.  I declared it by the way of a classroom speech at the age of 6 when asked, What do you want to be when you grow up?” Nothing has changed.

  WT: With the industry changing to a streaming format, where do you see the industry heading in the foreseen future?  Onyx: This might sound very vague but I truly just see it continuing to evolve and open more doors for the everyday Joe.  We have already learned that in some cases, you really don’t have to start off with any connections or ties for an opportunity anymore.  When I first began in promotions|marketing we had myspace and facebook was a year old.  I was hitting the pavement up and down the highway like crazy shaking hands…collecting cards.  I don’t have to do it as much as I did before.  It’s going to be more profitable to remain independent hence there are so many companies trying to get to their consumers and the labels just don’t have the same budgets like they used to.  They put it where it belongs and look more for a partnership.  These checks are rolling into the creator directly and they’re not bouncing.  What’s good for some will be a disadvantage for others.  You’re going to have to be multi-faceted but I don’t think us millennials are going to have any trouble with that at all.

  WT: What is a typical day like for Onyx? Onyx: Each day is different but what remains consistent is I’m a mother first.  My twin sons share the music, business, and sports gene so they are busy lol. Kirk Franklin Praise and Jeezy while I tend to the domestics, cooking, bills and a corporate hustle that requires weekly calls to tend to.  My background is Hospitality– Director of Catering and Global Accounts.  I put in a few hours a week to a separate gig remotely.  I have about 3 calendars I utilize to make a to-do-list before I rest, and when I wake up I reorganize the list based upon received emails, texts, or social media correspondence.  I have to check about 4-5 emails a day, multiple times.  We recently hired staff for the show so that cuts down on some of the technical sides but I carry the bulk load of the weight.  It just comes with the position.  

  WT: The number 1 advice you would give to independent artist out there today? Onyx: Set  goals. There really is no right or wrong way into the industry or any business for that matter.  Everyone’s journey is different.  Keep in mind goal setting often requires some research of some sort.  If we inform you that the music industry is a business then treat it as such.  Set a goal, then set another one.  Your goal may be to move to New York, find an investor, or protect your music.  If you find that something isn’t working for you, then try another way or another lane.  It’s so important to set goals so that you can work towards achieving it.   That’s 101.

  WT:  How important would you say the focus on one’s brand should play in building a musical career? Onyx: Your brand is everything. It should definitely be a priority when establishing your foundation as an artist, producer, or whatever the position of choice.  Licensing, publishing and corporate companies are great avenues to explore.  Take some time out to read up on marketing techniques, current trends, and take advantage of the easy scores around you.  The viral “challenges” though sometimes oversaturated, are a great loophole to gain some notoriety.  It’s up to you to keep it.  

  WT: 2014 SEA Internet Hustler of the Year, what an impressive honor; what made your plight different, and what did you do to stand out? Onyx:  Thank you so very much, winning the SEA Internet Hustler of the Year Award was truly an honor!  In 2013, I attended my first SEA conference.  That year I was pretty much at every music event trying to put a face to the show while spreading the word that we were based online! Don’t get it wrong, that didn’t mean we didn’t hustle when we were offline!  I wanted people to know I did it all and I knew many aspects of “the game.”  With the combined efforts of the heavy movement and power moves at the time, my nomination came about the following year.  I didn’t expect to be nominated or win, nor did I campaign regarding winning.  I take pride in that award, and I’m thankful that people saw exactly what I was doing. WORKING by any means necessary!

  WT: Tell us about Hosting Global 14 the Cut?  Your experience with working w/ Jermaine Dupri? Onyx: Executive Producer, I feel privileged to also Host Global 14| The Cut.  The Show was originally part of a station concept then later became the sole foundation. I created the show in Nov 2011 and named it “The Cut” in honor of my first promotional record that landed two radio stations within my area entitled “Cut wit U.”  I share the live stream with the other host Goldenfleece.  If a listener were to browse our archive, they might take notice that we were ahead of the wave in regards to today’s trends in urban media.  We base the show more on core journalism practices rather than any of the gossip, but we definitely make mention of those as they come about.  For me, it’s always about finding a balance. We’ve gone viral a few times but try to focus on our guest experience and their fan interaction.  My goal was to do something different.  I think we’ve been able to accomplish, and progress a little along the way.

  My experience with Jermaine Dupri comes thru his platform global14.com.  He allowed me the opportunity to utilize the brand while creating for my own betterment.  I don’t spend time with him during his day to day, but have always had his full support and encouragement from the beginning.  I like that he will congratulate, take notice, or s/o our small yet recognizable efforts. He’s an innovator and a visionary much like myself so it’s always nice to have affirmation that you’re headed in a dope direction from someone of his stature.  He’s clearly a living legend with many accolades.  It’s an honor to be able to open a few doors thru the strength of his reputation.I have the utmost respect and admiration for Jermaine Dupri and will forever be grateful for the encouragement he has shown me thru these years.

  WT: What’s your affiliation with X Squad Dj’s and US Dj’s? Onyx: I became a member within the Xsquadd Djs Coalition by way of a merger from Lucky of Indianapolis.  The CEO, Damel genuine vision and work ethic personifies greatness. The USDJS was founded by a man named Poncho who I’ve known for many years.  We were from the same city so the support was automatic, but my schedule didn’t permit me to fully engage in more than one coalition.  I support his company from afar, and he continues to do the same for me.  

  WT: Tell us about your artist Young Mayne? Onyx: Young Mayne is near and dear to my heart.  He is extremely talented and passionate about his craft.  Our delay with his career was mainly due to legal matters & decisions that led to incarceration.  My belief in Young Mayne ability as an artist is so strong that I set aside my love for singing to help him pursue our dream.  He’s my older brother so this talent thing really does run thru our veins, lol.  Young Mayne’s raw, but gritty Southern tone has an undertone that is musically influenced from pioneers such as Jay-Z, B.I.G, Scarface and the Legendary Tupac.   

  WT: What’s next for Onyx? Onyx: I’m literally headed for the Mogul status.  I wish I could speak on all of my projects but I don’t believe in presenting the floorplan until at least the ink is dry lol.  I currently offer services available by accessing my website or contacting me thru social media.  I’m a music professional and I often write articles/blogs pertaining to the areas of my expertise and more.  I just took on one of my younger brothers, Brandon Nichols, as a sports client.  He’s my first under division.  I’m still working on my own songwriting placement endeavors while developing my artist, and the radio show is headed towards new heights.  Mayne and I are actually creators of artwork as well.  I’m talking canvases, portraits, designs and more.  Another family gift among others we collectively share.  I do a lot, but I can’t yet speak on it all.  I hope I can circle back once it all comes to fruition and share more.

Onyx “Queen of Killeen” Gallery

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Wazzup Xclusive | The Making of A Mogul: Onyx ~ Queen of Killeen | @wazzuptonight New York, NY - With the Entertainment Industry revolving on a never-ending carousel; it's the power players behind the scene that's withstanding its uncertainty.