I almost never take something at teach it verbatim. No, that would be the easy way. Instead, I always have to tweak things to make them work for me. And honestly, that's how a lot of my products were created.
And I will admit freely that I grab images from all sorts of places to use as clipart since I don't know how to make my own (and use pop culture references to relate to my students). This isn't a problem in my own classroom, but unfortunately, this means I can't share a lot of my work on TPT. At least not until I learn how to make my own images.
Recently, I analyzed my product statistics and saw that I had some products with many downloads and great feedback. In an effort to actually start generating some money on my site (so I can buy other peoples' products), I decided to start selling some of these items for a couple bucks.

I can't tell you how excited I was when my first few sales started to trickle in!
And then this weekend, I was notified that a buyer had left me feedback on one of my most-downloaded items (when it was free). At first, I will admit, I was defensive when the buyer gave me a less-than-stellar review.
But then I started thinking about her feedback. And even though this buyer clearly didn't understand my original intention, she was right. There were things I could change to make my product better. So, first thing this morning, that's what I did.
So, anyone who has downloaded my protagonist/antagonist/foil activity, there are now pretty task cards included with the set to use for whole-group, small group, and scoot activities I know you all love so much! Make sure you download the newest version!!
I would advise any seller on TPT to truly consider the feedback of your buyers. You many not always agree with everything they say (in this case, I didn't), but it also may help you find ways to reach a broader audience.
In addition, I want to encourage buyers to leave constructive feedback for our sellers. It doesn't always have to be done in a public manner (especially in a way that negatively impacts their rating), but I think I speak for many when I say that we genuinely want to create products that will help other teachers.
Help us help you!

I can't tell you how excited I was when my first few sales started to trickle in!
And then this weekend, I was notified that a buyer had left me feedback on one of my most-downloaded items (when it was free). At first, I will admit, I was defensive when the buyer gave me a less-than-stellar review.
But then I started thinking about her feedback. And even though this buyer clearly didn't understand my original intention, she was right. There were things I could change to make my product better. So, first thing this morning, that's what I did.
So, anyone who has downloaded my protagonist/antagonist/foil activity, there are now pretty task cards included with the set to use for whole-group, small group, and scoot activities I know you all love so much! Make sure you download the newest version!!
I would advise any seller on TPT to truly consider the feedback of your buyers. You many not always agree with everything they say (in this case, I didn't), but it also may help you find ways to reach a broader audience.
In addition, I want to encourage buyers to leave constructive feedback for our sellers. It doesn't always have to be done in a public manner (especially in a way that negatively impacts their rating), but I think I speak for many when I say that we genuinely want to create products that will help other teachers.
Help us help you!
Long time no see my friend!
ReplyDeleteVery useful post! Glad you are starting to see some sales trickling in. I love the orange and blue on your TpT product!
:) Erin
I'm Lovin Lit