Podcast Summary: Ep 183 | Free, Underrated Local Resources That Can Help You Grow Your Business -- with Preston Cox
Release Date: May 29, 2025
Host: Lizzie Smiley
Guest: Preston Cox
Introduction
In this episode of "How to Sell Your Stuff on Etsy," host Lizzie Smiley welcomes Preston Cox, a successful Etsy seller and Chamber of Commerce manager from Stamford, Texas. The conversation centers around leveraging local resources to grow an Etsy business, providing listeners with actionable insights and practical advice.
Preston’s Business Update
Preston shares his entrepreneurial journey, highlighting significant growth over the past six months. Since his last appearance in November 2024, his Etsy shop has surged from 100 to over 600 sales, averaging $2,000 in monthly gross revenue.
Preston (04:30): "When I was at 100 sales on my Etsy shop, things took off with the patches. Now, six months later, I've achieved over 600 sales and am averaging about $2,000 a month."
He’s in the process of expanding his business by acquiring a local embroidery shop, aiming to diversify his product line and enhance his customer base.
The Importance of Local Resources
Preston emphasizes the pivotal role local resources play in scaling an Etsy shop. He advocates for Etsy sellers to view their businesses as legitimate enterprises deserving of the same support and resources as brick-and-mortar businesses.
Preston (17:06): "As an Etsy seller, you are a business. Regardless of if it's a side hustle or a full-time gig, you should have access to resources, grants, connections, and networking just like every other business in your town."
Exploring Local Resources: Chambers of Commerce and Development Corporations
Preston delves into the functions and benefits of local Chambers of Commerce (CoC) and Development Corporations (DevC). He explains how these organizations advocate for businesses, provide grants, and offer networking opportunities that can significantly aid Etsy sellers.
Preston (18:02): "Chamber of Commerce is an advocacy group for businesses in towns and cities. They focus on supporting local businesses, promoting tourism, and providing resources like grants and networking events."
He shares personal experiences of how his role as Chamber Manager has facilitated his business growth through grants and infrastructural support.
Preston (21:23): "They helped me purchase my big laser for my laser engraving business. They saw potential and supported me with an infrastructure grant."
Additional Resources: Small Business Development Centers and SCORE
Beyond CoC and DevC, Preston highlights other invaluable resources such as Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) and SCORE Mentors. These platforms offer free or low-cost services like business planning, bookkeeping assistance, and personalized mentoring from experienced business professionals.
Preston (30:58): "Small Business Development Centers are everywhere and provide free resources. SCORE Mentors pair you with knowledgeable individuals who can guide you through various aspects of your business."
The Role of Customer Service and Community Connection
Preston discusses how local engagement enhances customer service and business reputation. Operating within a small community necessitates impeccable customer service to avoid negative feedback on platforms like community Facebook pages.
Preston (38:12): "In a small town, I want to have impeccable customer service. I can't afford to get blasted on the community Facebook page because of poor customer service."
This community-centric approach has taught him to align his products with local demands, such as transitioning from leather patch hats to embroidered alternatives based on customer feedback.
Sales Tax and Community Benefits
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around understanding and appreciating sales tax. Preston explains how sales tax collected from Etsy sales benefits local infrastructure and community projects.
Preston (46:00): "Sales tax is an expense for you, but it's going to your community, helping with roads, schools, and local development projects."
He encourages sellers to view sales tax positively, recognizing it as a contribution to the community’s growth and sustainability.
Networking and Collaboration
The conversation underscores the importance of networking and building relationships within the local business ecosystem. Preston suggests collaborating with local businesses, such as partnering with gyms to sell digital products or leveraging community events to showcase products.
Preston (32:53): "Could you partner with your local gym to sell your guides at their lobbies? There are so many options if you open your field of vision."
This collaborative mindset not only broadens the customer base but also fosters a supportive business community.
Final Thoughts and Information on Connecting
As the episode concludes, Preston and Lizzie reinforce the value of utilizing local resources and building strong community ties to sustain and scale an Etsy business. Preston provides his contact information for listeners seeking personalized advice.
Preston (51:17): "You can find me on Instagram at @277creative or visit my website at 277creative.com. I'm always open to helping local businesses grow."
Key Takeaways
- Leverage Local Organizations: Joining Chambers of Commerce and engaging with Development Corporations can provide essential support, including grants and networking opportunities.
- Utilize Free Resources: Platforms like Small Business Development Centers and SCORE Mentors offer invaluable free or low-cost assistance in areas like business planning and bookkeeping.
- Emphasize Customer Service: In small communities, maintaining excellent customer service is crucial to building a positive reputation and avoiding negative feedback.
- Understand Sales Tax: Viewing sales tax as a community investment rather than a burden can shift perspectives and highlight its role in local development.
- Network and Collaborate: Building relationships with other local businesses can open doors to new opportunities and expand your customer base.
Notable Quotes
- Preston (04:30): "When I was at 100 sales on my Etsy shop, things took off with the patches. Now, six months later, I've achieved over 600 sales and am averaging about $2,000 a month."
- Preston (17:06): "As an Etsy seller, you are a business. Regardless of if it's a side hustle or a full-time gig, you should have access to resources, grants, connections, and networking just like every other business in your town."
- Preston (18:02): "Chamber of Commerce is an advocacy group for businesses in towns and cities. They focus on supporting local businesses, promoting tourism, and providing resources like grants and networking events."
- Preston (46:00): "Sales tax is an expense for you, but it's going to your community, helping with roads, schools, and local development projects."
- Preston (32:53): "Could you partner with your local gym to sell your guides at their lobbies? There are so many options if you open your field of vision."
Conclusion
This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for Etsy sellers looking to expand their businesses by tapping into local resources. Preston Cox’s insights underscore the importance of community engagement, leveraging available resources, and maintaining a customer-centric approach to foster sustainable business growth.
For more information and resources discussed in this episode, visit howtosellyourstuff.com.