What I Have Learned on Teachers Pay Teachers-Part 2

 

This is Part 2 of a series on What I Have Learned on Teachers Pay Teachers.  To read Part 1, click here.

As a teacher-author who’s a bit older than the average, I’ve gone through (and continue to go through) the trials and tribulations of venturing into the world of all that is Teachers Pay Teachers.  Here are a few of my top finds from the time I’ve spent on this adventure.

EasyHyperlinks.com
I had no idea what a hyperlink was when I started Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT). While watching the top sellers, I noticed they linked other products in their product descriptions. I started reading about how sales increased when sellers used hyperlinks in their descriptions and on credit pages. So I searched for the most recommended site for creating hyperlinks: easyhyperlinks.com.  He has a video link there which I watched (about 20 times). Now I’ve mastered the process, though I hear the site is so inundated with TPT sellers that it shuts down periodically. I copy and past hyperlinks from other product descriptions into new product descriptions.  It’s an easy link to other items in my store.  Here’s a shot of my description with the links to other products:

 

 

 

Explore TPT’s Home page
One summer day, I discovered Charity Preston’s videos on the main TPT page. I don’t know why I hadn’t taken the time to explore the home page, but there I was, on the floor of my living room with a notepad, watching one video after another. I wish I had watched them when I started TPT, but we all have our journeys.  I can’t find them any longer, but there’s a great “HELP” section in the upper right corner of your home page.  Loads of answers there!!  Additionally, there’s TPT University.  I’d recommend starting there.

 

Google It
There is so much help out there. Right now, I’m struggling with all the facets of blogging. I need to remind myself (still) that there’s help at my fingertips. Google it. Videos pop up, tutorials are available, and even live chat help. It sounds ridiculous, but I still forget that I can “Google it”.

 

 

Read the Forum
EVERY time I visit the TPT forum I learn something. Most recently, I learned about two new sites for photographs (I’m using them more and more for covers and for products). Also, I had no idea what key word loading was, and what a no-no it is. I’m glad I read all the posts because I’m far more aware of my product descriptions and also the descriptions of other sellers with whom I collaborate. On the forum I learned how to make it so a product could have both landscape and portrait pages (rotate the page!!!), how to save and secure a pdf, and what Adobe Acrobat is (although I still need more on this). When I’m at my wit’s end, I seek help on the forum.  I ALWAYS get and answer, and more often than not, it’s exactly what I need to continue my work.  I HIGHLY recommend spending regular time on the forum and sharing your knowledge.  I also think it helps drive traffic, but that’s just my humble opinion.

 

Collaborate with Others

More than likely, there’s a group of teacher-authors in your general vicinity.  My group is six hours away (physically), but online we regularly collaborate.  Just reading about the concerns, discoveries, and successes of others helps me learn.  We give each other a heads-up when something new is happening.  We discuss issues with marketing, product creation, etc.  In February, I drove the six hours to meet up with a few of them and a larger group from the west coast.  Meet-ups are a fantastic way to connect with others and continue collaboration.

I’d love to hear a few of your favorite tips for TPT success.

 

Thanks to I Teach.  What’s Your Superpower?  for the clipart and numbers and to  A Little Peace of Africa for my new design!!