WEEK 9: SELLING YOUR ARTWORK
Who would have imagined there was so much that goes into running an art business besides making and selling art, am I right?!
Not sure what I mean? This is week 9 in our 10 week series ‘Concept to Launch’ where we point out and get you thinking about all the things that you could be considering as you embark upon the adventure that is starting your own art business. Head over HERE to start at the beginning with Week 1: Creating a Business Plan.
We’re finally getting to the selling part this week. From creating an online store to offering excellent customer service, we’re listing off everything you need to know about to close the deal and make sales. Follow along and set your mind to researching these concepts this week.
Let’s explore proven techniques to close the deal and make the sale.
- Create an Online Store
- E-commerce Platform: You already have your website set up and ready to make sales
- Product Descriptions: Be sure to write detailed product descriptions. Include the title, medium, dimensions, and inspiration behind each piece. Collectors love to know a little something special about the piece. It can help them form a connection to it, and heavily influence their buying decisions.
- Offer Multiple Payment Options
- Payment Gateways: Offer multiple payment options like credit cards, PayPal, and Apple Pay. This makes it easier for buyers to complete their purchase.
- Installment Plans: Consider offering installment plans for higher-priced pieces. This can make your art more accessible to buyers.
- Create a Sense of Urgency
- Limited Editions: Offer limited edition prints. This creates a sense of urgency and exclusivity.
- Time-Limited Offers: Run time-limited offers and discounts. This can encourage buyers to make a purchase.
- Provide Excellent Customer Service
- Communication: Respond to inquiries promptly. Provide detailed and accurate information about your work.
- Shipping: Offer fast and reliable shipping. Provide tracking information and ensure your art is well-packaged.
- Follow Up with Buyers
- Thank You Notes: Send a thank you note with each purchase. This shows appreciation and encourages repeat business.
- Follow-Up Emails: Follow up with buyers after they receive their purchase. Ask for feedback and offer additional products.
- Build Trust and Credibility
- Testimonials: Display testimonials from satisfied customers on your website and social media.
- Guarantees: Offer a satisfaction guarantee or return policy. This can reduce buyer hesitation and build trust.
Selling your art is about creating a seamless buying experience so that the collector has nothing to focus on except the connection that they feel to you and your art. It’s your chance to deepen that connection and turn them into a true fan who will follow every phase of your art career with enthusiasm. And hopefully, it will make it easier for them to buy from you on more than one occasion.
This may feel like the end of the process, but there’s one more thing we need to cover. Don’t miss next week when we share our tips for measuring your success and planning for the future.
In the meantime, if you’re feeling a little disconnected from your art practice, give our Colour My Numbers tool a try. It’s free to download here.
