Summer Series 9: How to Scale Your TPT Business: Simple Steps to Grow Beyond the Basics

As we wrap up this summer series, I can’t help but reflect on how far we’ve come. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been selling on Teachers Pay Teachers for a while, I hope you’re feeling more confident and excited about what’s possible for your teacher business. Now it’s time to talk about how to scale your TPT business.

Because once your TPT store is up and running, once you’ve created a few products and figured out some systems… the question becomes: how do I scale this business I’ve built?

Let’s talk about it.

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you choose to purchase through them. I only share products I truly love and recommend!

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First, a quick reminder:

If you’re serious about scaling your TPT business, there are a couple of non-negotiables:

A product or offer to lead them to. Whether it’s a freebie, a signature product, or something that complements your TPT resources, having a strategic product pathway makes growth intentional.

An email list. Yes, I’ve  mentioned it often – and for good reason. An email list is one of the most powerful tools you can use to connect with your audience, build trust, and make consistent sales.

So how do you actually scale?

Unlike TPT’s marketplace, where traffic already exists, expanding beyond TPT means becoming your own traffic driver. That sounds intimidating, but it’s incredibly empowering. You’re no longer relying on someone else’s algorithm – you’re in control.

Want help with setting up your digital product, designing a sales page, and building a funnel that works? My Hey, Digital Product Playbook walks you through the exact steps to bring your product to life and get it ready to sell. It’s everything you need to move from idea to income – with tech tutorials included.

And while that may sound overwhelming, here’s the truth: you only need to start with one strategy. Pick what works for your schedule, your energy, and your strengths.

Here are seven tried-and-true ways to start scaling your TPT business:

1. Instagram

Instagram is powerful for connection and community. With consistent content – like Reels, carousels, and strategic captions – you can start to position yourself as an expert in your niche. Posting daily has helped me grow, but even a few times a week can make an impact. Using an automated system, such as ManyChat, will help you stay consistent. The key? Stay focused on your niche. Teach through your content. And be consistent.

2. Pinterest

Pinterest is one of the most underrated tools for driving traffic. It’s essentially a search engine, which means your content has a much longer lifespan. You can use Pinterest to lead people to your email list freebie, your blog, your TPT products – wherever you want them to go. If you’re new, just start pinning. A blog helps, but it’s not required to begin.

3. TikTok

Similar to Instagram, TikTok allows you to create short, relatable, and educational videos. It’s a great space to build awareness quickly if your content is engaging. The algorithm favors creators who post consistently and niche down.

4. Blogging

Blogging is a slower burn – but it’s a strategic one. Blog posts can bring in traffic for years (I still see visits from posts she wrote in 2017!). Use SEO to write helpful content that answers your audience’s questions. It takes time, but it’s worth it.

5. YouTube

If video comes naturally to you, YouTube might be the perfect fit. Whether it’s tutorials, behind-the-scenes content, or product walkthroughs, this platform allows you to connect deeply and establish authority in your space.

6. Podcasting

More of a talker than a writer? A podcast can help you build trust fast. And here’s a pro tip: record yourself while podcasting and upload that video to YouTube – double the content, double the exposure.

7. Facebook Groups

This is an amazing way to build a loyal community. Whether you’re helping parents, teachers, or homeschoolers, a Facebook group lets you connect directly with your audience. Ask questions, offer support, and grow your list in the process.

Ready to scale your TPT business?

You do not have to do all seven.

Start with one. Master it. Then layer in another, if and when it makes sense for your life and business.

I started with blogging and Pinterest. You might prefer Instagram or YouTube. The beauty of scaling your TPT business is that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. There’s only what fits you.

Think about your bandwidth. Think about your personality. Think about how you like to show up. And then start there.

And remember – this doesn’t happen overnight. But with strategy and consistency, it does happen.

If this summer series helped you even a little bit, let me know! Send me a DM on Instagram and let me know what you’re working on. 

Former teacher Lindsay Bowden, standing and holding a teacher resource, helping educators learn how to sell on TPT

About Lindsay

Former teacher Lindsay Bowden, standing and holding a teacher resource, helping educators learn how to sell on TPT
Lindsay is a former high school math teacher turned full time online biz owner. She has earned over $320K in revenue from Teachers Pay Teachers.

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About Lindsay

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Lindsay has been creating math resources for over 10 years and now helps other teachers and moms create and sell their own digital products. Shop my resources or learn how to monetize your skills!
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