Common Misconceptions About Marketing Yourself on the Web (for woodworkers)

I wanted to share with you some of the most common misconceptions amongst custom woodworkers that we've encountered as we've talked to more and more folks about our service.

1) Customers will come to my website directly through search engines:

Most Consumers don't stray from the first page of search results. We typically rank #1, which means you will gain far more exposure on our site than you have ever received from search traffic.

2) Doesn’t your website just make it too easy for customers to comparison shop (get multiple quotes from multiple woodworkers)?

Yes, but your customers are doing that anyways. In this economy, customers are doing more research before making a buying decision. By being on CustomMade.com, you are saying your work is going to be perfect for certain buyers, and you want the exposure to these buyers.

3) I don’t have the time to take pictures, write item descriptions, and “manage” an on-line profile. I build furniture – that’s what I love to do.

We actually heard this one at a furniture show. Our response was to point out that in 2 hours, you can have your entire profile up and searchable on CustomMade.com, you will also gain exposure to hundreds of thousands of visitors. In contrast, the gentleman at the furniture show spent a day packing his truck, a day driving, and two days manning the booth. All to have exposure to 750 people. There is no comparison.

4) I’ve been doing just fine for X years building my business on my own – why do I need you, and why now?

Everyone knows the economy is tough right now. However, what we see is a resurgance of shopping for quality. Why buy from China when you can buy local and you can customize your own piece? We expect the market for Custom Woodworking to grow sizeably in the next few years, and CustomMade.com is dedicated to making this happen for our customers and the woodworking community

5) You guys aren’t woodworkers – you’re web marketing geeks from Boston! Don’t I want a woodworker helping me market myself on the web?

Yes and No. We may be web marketing geeks, but we also listen to our current subscribers and future subscribers. Plus, we have some pretty cool ways to get you LOTS of exposure. Not being from the woodworking industry has helped us look at common issues (like marketing oneself) with new ideas.

6) Most of my business is word of mouth. I never get my money’s worth when I do “marketing”

The internet is changing how word of mouth works. In the age of Facebook, Twitter, and blogs, you need an online presence. You dont need a website, but you need something online. We help you with that.