5 Things to Know About Every Door Direct Mail

In today's digital world, most of the messages we receive as consumers come from online platforms. However, leveraging traditional methods of communication is still effective for reaching customers. According to Newswires, direct mail boasts an average response rate between 2.7% and 4.4%, while email only has a 0.6% response rate.

Direct mail remains a relevant and valuable way for your company to advertise itself to the public. But the idea of unknowingly sending your print materials to random addresses might seem daunting. 

Thankfully, the United States Postal Service (USPS) offers a program that allows you to send your direct mail specifically to your company's target demographic, making it even more effective! This feature is called Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM). Read on to learn more about this helpful option!

5 Things to Know About Every Door Direct Mail

1. Individual Address Are Not Required

One of the advantages of EDDM is that you don't need to know the specific mailing addresses of your recipients.

Instead, EDDM uses zip codes or neighborhoods to send your print materials to every door within that area.

2. Pinpointing Your Target Demographic

EDDM uses official U.S. Census data, allowing you to identify factors such as age, income level, and other demographic statistics for your selected community. 

This feature simplifies targeting areas with the highest likelihood of a positive response from your company's desired audience.

According to CompareCamp, 54% of consumers say they only want to receive direct mail from brands that interest them. EDDM can help ensure that the addresses your mail gets sent to are the customers most likely to be interested in your products or services. 

3. Limitations

Before deciding whether EDDM suits your company, it's essential to consider its limitations.

The program only allows you to send mail to either a mix of residential and business addresses or a list of strictly residential addresses. In other words, if your company's target demographic is solely businesses, EDDM might not be the most profitable option.

Additionally, remember that to use EDDM, your company must send a minimum of 200 pieces of mail and a maximum of 5,000 per day for each selected ZIP code. 

4. How to Start Using EDDM

To begin using EDDM for your direct mail, whether you represent a business or an individual, you'll need to create a USPS account to start using EDDM for your direct mail.

Once you have an account, use the online tool to select the geographic areas where you'd like your mail sent. Take advantage of the demographic filters to refine your target audience!

5. Design and Send Your Direct Mail

When designing your direct mail pieces, ensure they follow the guidelines and requirements for EDDM.

These specifications can be found on the USPS website. Remember to make your mailpiece eye-catching and easy to read, with a clear call to action. Then drop off your mailpieces at a post office or ship them to one with the correct EDDM facing slip attached.

EDDM is a helpful way to increase the effectiveness of your company's direct mail and eliminates the need to purchase or create a mailing list.

Consider using EDDM for your next batch of print materials and see how it can impact reaching your target audience! Contact us with questions about utilizing this tool with your next campaign. 

 

11 Great Print Marketing Ideas to Give Your Business a Head Start This School Year

Back-to-school season is a time for parents, students, and educators to prepare for the upcoming school year. 

It's also an excellent opportunity for businesses to capitalize on the spending rush of starting a new academic term.

73% of back-to-school shoppers plan to shop in late July and early August, so it's not too early to start marketing now. When it comes to promoting your business during back-to-school season, nothing beats print marketing!

11 Great Print Marketing Ideas to Give Your Business a Head Start This School Year

1. Back-to-School Flyers

Create a catchy, eye-catching flyer that targets parents and students with special deals, discounts, or promotions for the back-to-school season.

Have them distributed around local schools and neighborhoods.

2. Bookmarks

Design a unique bookmark to be included in student textbooks or given out as free keepsakes.

Include your logo, contact information, and any relevant offers or discounts for back-to-school shoppers.

3. School Supplies

Brand your line of school supplies with your business logo and colors.

These make great giveaways at local schools or events related to the start of the school year.

4. Posters

Create colorful posters to be hung around schools, libraries, or local businesses in your area.

Feature back-to-school deals and promotions for parents and students to take advantage of.

5. Catalogs

Put together a catalog featuring all the back-to-school products and services you offer.

Have them distributed around local schools and neighborhoods.

6. Special Offers

Send postcards or mailers to local families with special back-to-school deals and discounts.

Include your logo and contact information for added visibility.

7. Stickers

Have custom stickers that feature your business logo, colors, and any relevant offers or promotions for the back-to-school season.

Have them distributed around schools or mail them to local parents and students.

8. Classroom Magazines

Put together classroom magazines filled with back-to-school deals, promotions, and helpful tips for the upcoming school year.

Feature your business logo and contact information on the cover page of each issue.

9. Shopping Lists

Create shopping lists that feature your business's back-to-school products and services.

Include them in mailers or have them distributed around local schools.

10. Postcards

Send postcards with helpful tips for the upcoming school year to parents and students in your target area.

Feature your logo, contact information, and any relevant offers or discounts that you're offering for the back-to-school season.

11. Notebooks

Have custom notebooks made up with your business logo and colors.

These can be distributed to local schools or given as free keepsakes during back-to-school events and promotions.

Businesses can give themselves a real head start by taking advantage of the increased spending around back-to-school season.

Use these 11 print marketing ideas to get the message out about your business and engage with parents, students, and educators during this important time of year.

Don't let the back-to-school rush catch you unprepared! Contact us today to find out how we can help your business capitalize on the excitement of the new school year!

 

9 Genius Ideas for Driving Traffic to Your Blog with Print

Direct mail remains the medium that gives you direct and reliable access to nearly everyone in your target market.

Direct mail marketing is often part of a bigger picture and longer sales cycle. It's the most effective way of reaching people in the comfort of their homes and offices, allowing them to pass along the information to others easily.

When it comes to driving traffic to your blog, combining the tangible appeal of print materials with the allure of your digital content can yield remarkable results. 

Keep reading for strategies to help entice readers to explore the engaging content you offer. 

9 Genius Ideas for Driving Traffic to Your Blog with Print

1. Use Links

Send newsletters with your link on them.

Use a teaser on your printed piece to pique their interest, then follow up with a link to your blog. Create a desire in them to know more about the topics you have written about by giving them glimpses of the information in the newsletter.

2. Grab Attention

Send a postcard with a blog title on it and a statistic that gets people's attention.

This will encourage people to search online for your information.

3. Expand Reach with Print

Create a printed piece that promotes your blog, such as an insert in a newspaper.

By giving people a little bit of information, such as a teaser, you can connect with them and get them to take the next step of going to your blog on their phone or computer.

4. Catch Their Eye

When you decorate your entrance, hang posters that highlight your blog.

Use teasers and fun tidbits that can be found in your blog. Maybe it's a statistic or an interesting piece of information.

5. Be Creative

Make sure your headlines are catchy.

People won't want to visit your site if you are overlooked. Spend time thinking about the headline rather than just using the first one that comes to mind. This is important so that people will be curious and check out more of what you have written.

6. Offer Exclusive Content

Provide coupons or discounts when people go to your blog.

Use a printed piece to introduce them to your latest sales. Then tell them to go to your blog for the rest of the information, then offer them a special deal.

7. Concentrate on Consistency

Coordinate your online message with the direct mail pieces.

If the two are not cohesive, it will confuse the readers, and they won't read on. They must see the two working together to know they've reached the right place.

8. Use QR Codes

A QR code on your printed pieces allows readers to scan them and go directly to your blog.

They are easy for people to use and provide an easy and direct path to where you want the person to go. 

9. Provide Free Reports

This is a great way to get people to go online and see what you have to say.

Make sure you pick topics they are interested in that apply to their businesses. Then, you can inform them exactly where to turn for the information using direct mail.

When printing your next project, be sure to contact us.

7 Top Tips to Create Customer Loyalty Through the Mailbox

You need to build loyalty and trust with your clients when bringing in business. This will keep them coming back. Doing so isn’t hard, especially when you use direct mail.

When people get mail, they are more likely to find it a secure way to receive information. 54% of consumers worried less about direct mail privacy than digital communications privacy.

Employ the ideas below.

7 Top Tips to Create Customer Loyalty Through the Mailbox

1. Send Exclusive Offers

Make your offers attractive so that clients will want to open your mail.

Tease them with discounts and sales on the front of the envelope or postcard.

If you have a new product that they have been waiting for, this is the time to offer a good deal on it and announce it.

2. Personalize Communication

If you send a letter, a newsletter, or even a postcard, try using their name.

This will capture their attention and make them take notice. They will know that it’s not just junk mail.

3. Consistency Counts

Ensure all the pieces work together.

Use the same tone of voice and similar graphic design so that it causes them to remember you. Don’t make each piece wildly different.

4. Use High-Quality Paper

This sends the message that you care and that you are serious about what you offer.

It shows that you don’t skimp on quality, which will increase trust with your customers.

5. Include a Call to Action

Make sure there’s a call to action so customers know what to do next.

Ask them to call, visit your website, or subscribe to a newsletter. This builds loyalty because it causes them to stay in touch with you. It also makes them feel connected regularly.

6. Send a Thank You

Deliver a note to customers personally in a nice letter on quality paper.

Use their name, their buying history, and something personal if you can. This makes people genuinely feel appreciated. When you send things like this through the mail, it’s trusted more than an email.

7. Lead with Your Logo

Send items in the mail that have your logo on them, whether it’s a pen, stationary, or a magnet.

This works to build loyalty because it reminds them daily of your business, and it creates a feel-good situation. They know you appreciate them when you give them items.

No matter your business, there are ways to keep customers coming back. Building loyalty takes time, so the key is to be consistent and not give up. Keep the content coming.

In fact, it’s five times less expensive to keep existing customers than to attract new ones.

If you have a project that requires printing, please reach out. We are here to help!

 

Boost Foot Traffic to Your Store: Two Proven Print Marketing Strategies

In an era dominated by digital communication, print marketing stands out as a tangible and impactful medium that captures attention and resonates with consumers.

According to one recent study, approximately 70% of households with an income of at least $100,000 are newspaper readers. Along the same lines, it has been estimated that about 95% of those under 25 read magazines. Those are just two of the many statistics that help illustrate that print marketing won't just get your message in front of a larger audience - it will help you reach a younger and more affluent one, too.

However, using print marketing materials is only half the battle. You still need to craft a purpose-driven campaign built from the ground up with a precise goal. Case in point: if you want to boost foot traffic to your brick-and-mortar store using print marketing, there are a few proven strategies you can lean into to do it.

Boost Foot Traffic to Your Store: Two Proven Print Marketing Strategies

Master the Art of Color and Emotion

One of the great things about print marketing, in general, is that it is tangible. 

As opposed to something like an email that can be quickly deleted or ignored, print collateral is something you can hold in your hand. You can put it up on the refrigerator and glance at it throughout the day, a factor that small business owners can utilize with the right approach.

Remember that color choice significantly influences people's feelings when exposed to your messaging when designing your collateral. Red, for example, denotes excitement, passion, and even action. This would be a great color to lean into if you were having an in-person event that people wouldn't want to miss out on.

Yellow, on the other hand, conveys feelings like originality and enthusiasm. If you were sending out a print campaign about a new product launch and wanted people to head into your store to check it out in person, yellow would be one of the colors you would rely on to motivate them.

The Power of Personalized Promotions

Another proven strategy you can use to boost foot traffic to your store involves extracting even more value out of the data your customers are already creating each day.

Every time someone walks into your store and makes a purchase, you learn more about them. Based on that insight, you should create personalized promotions and offer relevant rewards that can only be redeemed in person. If you know people who recently purchased Product A, you could send out an in-person coupon for a discount on the price of the related Product B.

Not only does this help get someone to your physical location, but it also goes a long way towards building trust in your business at the same time. These will help you generate more foot traffic and repeat in-person customers.

If you'd like to find out more information about how you can boost foot traffic to your store with the right approach to print marketing, or if you have any additional questions you'd like to go over with someone in a bit more detail, please don't hesitate to contact us today.

8 Trends in Print Marketing to Inspire You This Year

Print marketing remains the most effective way to reach customers and build brand recognition.

In 2023, there have been several innovations in print marketing that can help you make the most of your message. 

Here are eight of the latest trends to inspire your next print campaign.

8 Trends in Print Marketing to Inspire You This Year

1. Variable Data Printing

Customized messages, images, and text can make print marketing more impactful.

Variable data printing makes it easy to use data to personalize messages, images, and designs to grab consumers' attention and make your message memorable.

2. QR Codes

QR codes are gaining popularity in printed marketing materials, allowing customers to quickly scan them with their smartphones for easy access to websites, videos, or other materials.

3. Augmented Reality

Use the latest technology by integrating augmented reality into your print marketing campaigns.

This innovative tactic allows viewers to experience fully-immersive 3D images and videos through their cell phone cameras that can be triggered with a printed QR code, label, or logo on your piece.

4. In-Store Experiences

As online shopping grows, businesses seek to draw customers to their brick-and-mortar stores.

Printed materials placed in-store can create unique customer experiences, encouraging them to purchase.

5. Direct Mail

Reaching customers right where they live is still a powerful and effective form of marketing.

Direct mail can drive sales, interactions, or engagement with your brand. Keep the message simple and use compelling visuals to stand out among other mailers.

6. Business Cards

A business card is essential to networking and is still one of the best methods for making an excellent first impression.

Use creative designs and unique textures to differentiate yourself from the competition.

7. Brochures & Posters

Presenting products with detailed visuals through printed brochures or posters can be a great way to showcase your offerings.

Look for opportunities to use unique materials and textures to make an impression.

8. Custom Packaging

Custom packaging for shipments or promotional materials helps create an experience that customers will remember.

Brands can use unique boxes, bags, or wrap with logos or messaging to make a lasting impression.

What Can These 8 Print Marketing Trends Do for You?

By staying up-to-date with the latest trends in print marketing, you can ensure that your message reaches customers effectively and stands out from the competition.

Ready to put 2023's print marketing trends to work for your business? Let us help! Contact us now to get started.

 

 5 Statistics That Show Combining Direct Mail with Email Really Makes a Difference

The combination of direct mail and email can be a powerful marketing strategy.

Not only does it help you connect with more potential customers, but evidence suggests that combining the two forms of media can even increase response rates.

Here are five statistics that show just how effective this combination can be:

1. Direct mail is six times more likely to result in a purchase than email alone. (Source: U.S. Small Business Administration) 

2. Direct mail response rates are 10-30 times higher than sole digital marketing campaigns. (Source: Amsive)

3. Combining direct mail and email can increase response rates by as much as 50%. (Source: Epsilon)

4. 72% of potential customers enjoy interacting with brands via several mediums before purchasing. (Source: Lead Forensics) 

5. Marketing campaigns integrating direct mail and digital media hold 39% more of a customer’s time than digital campaigns alone. (Source: Canada Post)

What are the Advantages of Combining Direct Mail Initiatives with Email?

Utilizing both direct mail and email can help your business create a comprehensive marketing strategy to reach a wider audience and generate more leads.

Combining these two channels also allows cross-promotion, improving visibility on both platforms and raising brand awareness.

Here are some of the advantages of putting both direct mail and email to work for you:

Longer Shelf Life 

Direct mail boasts a longer shelf life than email, meaning it can be intercepted and influence potential customers even after receiving their email campaign.

More Memorable

Consumers are more likely to remember the messages they receive through direct mail, increasing their engagement with a brand.

Trustworthiness

Direct mail is considered more trustworthy than email or other digital forms of communication.

By utilizing both mediums, you build confidence in your target audience. 

Optimize Your Marketing Budget

Combining direct mail and email can help you reallocate resources and optimize your designated advertising funds, allowing you to make the most of a limited marketing budget.

What are the Most Effective Ways to Link Direct Mail Campaigns with Emails?

There are several ways to link your direct mail and email campaigns. Here are some of the most effective methods:

Personalized URLs

Use personalized URLs (PURLs) in your direct mail campaigns linked to targeted landing pages associated with an email campaign.

QR Codes

Include QR codes on physical mail pieces that link to online content or offers.

Special Offers

Offer discounts, coupons, or other incentives in direct mail campaigns that can be redeemed online.

Social Media

Incorporate social media links into physical mailings so recipients can easily connect with your brand on various platforms.

Call-to-Action

Include a call-to-action or other prompt in your direct mail campaigns encouraging recipients to visit an associated website or sign up for an email list.

Using these strategies, you can create powerful integrated marketing campaigns that maximize physical and digital media.

In doing so, you’ll be able to maximize your reach, increase response rates, and build stronger relationships with your customers.

With the right strategy, combining direct mail and email can be a powerful tool that produces tangible results.

By leveraging the strengths of both media types, you can create effective campaigns that reach more people and promote conversions.

Are you looking to drive your business growth? Integrated marketing campaigns can be powerful and practical tools. Reach out to our team to get started on yours!

 

Use Each of the 5 Senses to Create Unique Direct Mail 

In the modern world that we live in, most consumers get constantly bombarded with sensory and visual information through online platforms. 

It can be tricky to design engaging direct mail in this landscape that will catch the reader's attention as those online ads do. 

However, 75% of people who receive direct mail can recall the brands easily, as opposed to only 44% of brand recall with digital advertisements. Direct mail can be an excellent tool for your company to use!

Make your company's direct mail stand out by appealing to consumers' 5 senses! It's a creative and effective way to make your print materials memorable.

Use Each of the 5 Senses to Create Unique Direct Mail 

1. Sight 

Visually appealing mail will automatically intrigue your customers.

Use eye-catching designs like foil, metallic features, shimmery ink, lamination/different varnishes, and more options to captivate anyone who opens your mail.

Another idea you could try is incorporating a 3-D pop-up feature or a peek-a-boo flap into your design. Ensuring your direct mail is visually intriguing will lead your customers to check out the message and spend more time with it. 

2. Touch 

Focusing on the customers' sense of touch can be essential to making a memorable direct mail.

Consider using embellishments like debossing or embossing (raising or imprinting letters or your logo) or using textured paper to create a sensory experience for your customers. 

You could also include small token gifts, like pens or stickers with your company name or logo! Tangible items will cater to recipients' sense of touch and make them more likely to reach out in the future!

3. Smell

Research shows that there is a powerful connection between scent and memory.

So why not try including a scented element in your direct mail to help consumers remember your brand?

You could use lightly scented stationery or create a scratch-and-sniff feature on your mail that relates to your product. Or get more creative and include a free air freshener branded with your company name and logo!

4. Sound

Appealing to your recipients' sense of sound with direct mail requires creativity, but it will undoubtedly make your mail piece memorable!

You could print a QR code or include a link on your direct mail design to lead customers to a site with a specialized video ready to play. Another idea is to feature familiar lyrics from your company jingle in the text of your mail to trigger their memory of the song.

5. Taste

Although you are most likely unable to include something recipients can taste in your direct mail physically, you can still give them a 'sample'! 

Include a tear-off coupon for a free sample of your product if they visit your store, or list a coupon code in the mail that they can use online for a free trial.

By engaging all five senses, you can create a direct mail campaign to make a memorable impact and drive meaningful interactions with your brand.

Contact us today to incorporate visual appeal, tactile elements, scents, sounds, and even taste-related offers in your next campaign!

 

5 Ways to Use Social Media and Print Marketing Together to Your Advantage

Figuring out which channels to use for your company's next campaign can be tricky: sometimes, a more traditional print-ads approach seems useful, while other times, a social media campaign feels like the way to go. 

But in reality, combining these two channels can create an even more effective result for your company! 

With a few easy things to keep in mind, your company can use print ads to increase social media engagement and use social media to boost the ROI on your printed materials. 

5 Ways to Use Social Media and Print Marketing Together to Your Advantage

1. Use Social Proof from Media Accounts

Potential customers rely on other consumers' testimonials when deciding whether to purchase from your company.

A recent report showed that 93.4% of consumers depend on customer reviews when investigating retailers for the first time. Use this to your company's advantage by bringing those reviews directly to consumers through your print materials.

Include quotes of honest reviews from your company's media accounts on your next direct mail design, and invite consumers to see what others say about your company on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram as a call to action (CTA).

2. Make it Easy with QR Codes and Short URLs

Including information about your social media accounts on your direct mail is a good start, but it won't get you very far if it isn't convenient and quick for people to utilize. 

Firstly, if you include a URL, ensure it isn't too long for people to type into their search engine. You can use websites like TinyURL.com to convert a long URL into one that's easier for consumers to search.

QR codes are the height of convenience, and they can take consumers to one of your social media pages, websites, or online resources with just a quick scan of their phone camera. 

3. Design Exclusive Media-Related Offers

An easy way to use print marketing as a bridge to your online marketing is by using a media-related CTA on your print materials.

For instance, consumers will be motivated to follow your social accounts if you use print for advertising a special offer or discount for new followers.

4. Try Out Hashtags

Include hashtags on your direct mail and encourage customers to post photos of your products or company using that hashtag!

It could become a viral social media campaign, creating something big from a simple direct mail design.

5. Gather Data for Direct Mail Using Media

Social media provides a pre-organized way to discern which pieces of your content consumers are most engaged by. 

If a photo on one of your social accounts has the most likes, use it as the cover image for your next direct mail piece. See which data your customers like, share, and comment on, and use that to your advantage. 

Are you ready to try combining social media and print for your next marketing campaign? Partner with us, and we'll show you how! Give us a call today to get started. Check out how you can increase your Direct Mail response effectively.

8 Creative Summer Special-Day Promotion Ideas

 

8 Creative Summer Special-Day Promotion Ideas

Summer is approaching, and along with the warm weather come dozens of opportunities for your company to connect with customers!

Creative campaigns are one of the best ways to engage customers and inspire them to purchase from you. Why not try discounts and promotions centered around unique holidays? 

Research has shown that consumers respond more positively to special day-themed products and promotions than to ordinary campaigns. So here are eight ideas for special day-themed promotions to use in your direct mail this summer!

8 Creative Summer Special-Day Promotion Ideas

1. June 2nd- National Donut Day 

Who wouldn’t be motivated by a sweet incentive?

Try mailing coupons that read “Bring in this coupon for a free donut with purchase!” to draw customers to your store. 

2. June 5th- Thank You Day  

This is a great time to reinforce connections with existing customers.

Mail out a card from your company thanking your customers for their loyalty and choosing to use your services! 

You could even add a discount code (ex., THANK-YOU-5) to nudge them toward another purchase.

3. June 11th- National Children’s Day

A day to celebrate kids should always be celebrated!

Let your customers with families know you’re supporting them and appreciate them by doing something fun for their kids. 

You could include a kids’ craft or coloring page in your mailing packet and information about a sale on any kid’s clothing, decorations, bedding, toys, or games your company might sell. 

4. June 22nd- Positive Media Day 

This is an excellent opportunity to bolster your company’s social media presence!

Mail out a flier celebrating Positive Media Day and encourage customers to follow your company’s accounts. 

You could also introduce a “challenge” for customers to make a funny or uplifting social media post and use your company’s designated hashtag along with #positivemediaday to be entered into a giveaway!

5. June 27th- National Sunglasses Day 

There are a couple of ways you could get creative with this day.

You could try offering a free pair of branded sunglasses to each customer that stops by, offering a discount for each customer that comes into your store wearing their sunglasses, or an online coupon code such as SUNNIES-10 for 10% off.

6. July 12th- National Simplicity Day

Embrace the simple things at your company with this holiday, and encourage customers to do the same by offering a sale price on the “basics.” 

A great way to do this is to create an “essentials” bundle or package of different services and products at a discounted price. Consider sending direct mail that uses the tagline “Keeping it Simple with a National Simplicity Day Sale” or something similar. 

7. July 15th- National Give Something Away Day

In honor of Give Something Away Day, you could give something away to your customers!

The Zero Price Effect has rationalized that customers perceive free products to have a high value because there’s no risk to it since they’re not spending anything. 

An easy example would be a BOGO (buy one, get one) sale or simply including a product of lesser value as a “gift” with any purchase made on that day. 

8. August 8th- National Dollar Day

A creative design for a direct mail piece celebrating National Dollar Day would be to create a rectangular postcard printed with a dollar bill-like image and advertising $1 off each product or service purchased that day.

Go ahead and use some of these ideas, or create your own, to celebrate unique holidays and engage your customers with your direct mail this summer! And when you are ready to print, give us a call. 

5 Ways to Get Qualified Leads for Your Business

 

In business, a lead is someone who hasn’t used your products or services YET.

And there are many of those out there, just waiting to be introduced to your business. 

So, how do we grab them and turn them into customers?

5 Ways to Get Qualified Leads for Your Business

1. Personalize with print

The ability to personalize is one of the aspects that makes direct mail so effective in generating leads. 

People are more likely to respond when they feel you are communicating with them directly. 

You can customize dozens of data points, including name, age, or geographic location, and QR codes that lead them to a personalized landing page on your website.  

2. Attract attention with email

Use email marketing to attract new customers and re-engage old ones. 

Whether the email invites customers to return to their shopping cart or promotes your new product offerings and business statistics, emails are one of the best ways to retarget your customers. 

Make your email even more effective by combining it with a print campaign. Research shows that marketing campaigns that utilize email and print experience a higher response rate than email alone. 

3. Get buzz with influencers

Influencer marketing is one of the most popular new forms of online marketing, having more than doubled since 2019. 

These people will promote your business and stir up the talk so that you will also get organic praise.

4. Speak at events

Position yourself as an expert in your field, and you will be able to share your insights with others. 

This can also bring you more speaking gigs and more leads. Everyone wants to hear from an expert, and you will open doors if you advertise your services.

5. Attend trade shows

Hosting a booth at trade shows is a great way to generate leads.

You can maximize your potential to generate leads by offering a giveaway. Collect their contact information, and they can win a prize in exchange. 

Be sure to give them your business card, then follow up with regular postcards, brochures, and catalogs.  

There are many ways to promote your business, but these should help you find more leads. We are here to help you reach your potential. Contact us today to get started!

4 Print Marketing Materials Your New Business Needs

 Entrepreneurs and startup owners have so many things on their plates that it's not uncommon for certain items to get pushed to the bottom of the list. One thing you don't want to overlook is the can't-miss benefits of print marketing materials!

When done right, your print materials can catch someone's eye — in a way that text, photos, or graphics on a screen can't capture. 73% of consumers prefer printed materials because they can read them whenever needed. After all, people see digital ads second after second, and it all tends to blur together. Here are four materials that a new business can't afford to skip. 

4 Print Marketing Materials Your New Business Needs

Business Cards 

Business cards may seem like a traditional marketing tactic, but that's because they work!

When you are making and exchanging contact information with potential customers or business partners, accuracy is important. Instead of asking for someone's phone so you can input your contact information or risk mishearing a potential client's contact information, give them your business card. Even if they take a photo of it immediately, you're confident they have the correct information.

Include everything about your business, like what you do, who you help, your hours, and the best way to get in touch. Remember: you're a new business, so spell it out. 

Brochures 

A printed brochure about your products or services allows people to delve into the material.

Instead of scrolling through page after page, people can flip at their leisure and take the time to absorb the details.

If your business offers a wide variety of customer options, brochures can also be a great way to break down your marketing into different audiences. For instance, if you run a toy store and sell equally to children and collectors, you could have two separate brochures based on the target demographic. 

Postcards 

This marketing tactic is a massive opportunity for new business owners.

Not only can they catch the attention of people thumbing through their mail, but they're also similar to a business card in that you can condense a lot of pertinent information so that people can quickly grasp the main takeaways. 

Whatever your competitive edge is, whether it's lower prices or a truly stellar staff, don't be afraid to come out of the gate swinging. In addition, you can consider using postcards for various reasons, such as an invitation to a grand opening or an announcement of a new service. 

Thank You Cards 

Your first few customers will be some of the most critical sales ever.

Not only are these people supporting you right off the bat, but they're also the people who will either brag about you or tell their friends and family to stay away. 

It's important to remember that customers typically have a lot of empathy for new businesses, as they realize that most operations will have a few growing pains to contend with. That being said, colorful and sincere thank you cards that tell customers how much you appreciate their support can go a long way. 

Print marketing for new businesses may differ from several decades ago, but its efficacy is undeniable. When you're starting, you'll need people to see your name and business model multiple times before they remember you.

Contact us today to create a list of the materials you need to reach prospective customers for your business! 

6 Key Steps to Crafting a Winning Print Campaign

 Your current and prospective customers want to hear from you in an engaging, thought-provoking, and welcoming way. Print marketing is the best and most effective way to do just that!

Done right, print marketing raises awareness of your brand, drives new leads to your business, promotes the sales of new and existing products, and reaches people offline at home.

In fact, 79% of consumers find reading physical mail more convenient than going online.

But where do you start? Let's navigate the worthwhile road of print marketing together.

6 Key Steps to Crafting a Winning Print Campaign

1. Define Your Mission

Before thinking about fonts, images, and colors, set a clear goal or mission.

What exactly are you trying to accomplish? Do you have a new product ready to hit the streets? Are you trying to attract new customers, grow loyalty with your current customers, or increase your company's awareness?

How you answer this question will set the tone for your print marketing campaign.

2. Identify Your Target Audience

One of the most common challenges you'll likely run into is marketing your product or service to the appropriate audience.

Research and gather as much information about the demographic of your customer base. How old are they? Where do they live? Where do they work? What's the average salary in the area?

Remember, you're not trying to reach every audience; you are trying to reach the right audience. 

3. Focus on Trust

Prioritize transparency in your print marketing communications, and continually work to improve the trust that a customer can feel in the product or service you offer.

A survey of 1,000 consumers concluded that more than 80% consider trust a deciding factor in their buying decisions, but only 34% trust the brands they use. 

4. Clearly Communicate 

Always remember to include a few things in your design to get the purpose of the marketing piece across.

The headline should clearly state the topic of the copy, have a clear call to action, and tell your target audience what separates you from the competition.

5. Remain Flexible

Leave room for the unknown and be on the lookout for trends in your business or a shift in demographics.

Being able to pivot your print marketing effectively can allow you to be more efficient in your overall marketing efforts.

6. Embrace New Technologies

Print marketing will always be a vital element of any brand strategy and can be blended with other technologies.

Personalized print products are a surefire way to connect your brand with a customer, as they speak to the customer as an individual.

No matter how you plan your print marketing, by working with an experienced print partner like us, you can lean on the expertise of experienced professionals! Contact us today to get started.

5 Ways to Make Your Print Catalog Campaigns Rock

 From brochures, business cards, and mailers, it takes a variety of marketing collateral to build a comprehensive, successful marketing campaign.

Among the most critical pieces is a catalog, and it’s still the surefire way to build awareness of your products and services to customers and prospects. According to Data & Marketing Association data, 41% of millennials and 53% of Gen Xers reported enjoying catalogs.

With catalogs making a comeback, let’s make them work for your business.

5 Ways to Make Your Print Catalog Campaigns Rock

Choose the Best Size

Make your products stand out on the page by choosing the right catalog size.

If you have fewer products or services, you don’t need large spaces devoted to photos. The sizes of 5 ½ by 8 ½ inches or 6 by 9 inches will suffice.

On the other hand, if your products are intricate or detailed, you need space for large photos or illustrations. In that case, 8 ½ by 11 inches or 9 by 12 inches will be more comfortable.

Consider Coating

Customers and prospects can feel the difference between the catalogs they receive.

Getting your catalog to stand out is essential to getting it noticed. Adding an aqueous coating is one of the easiest ways to make it pop. To enhance your pages, you can choose from gloss, matte, or satin coating. 

Decide on the Best Binding

Another top consideration is the binding that will keep your catalog together.

Saddle-stitching is often your best bet because it’s user-friendly and affordable. This allows readers to open the catalog and lay it flat while reading.

Discover other styles such as case bound, perfect bound, and pamphlet stitch.

Remember to create your catalog in four-page increments to allow maximum use of the space and prevent the need to add blank pages.

Tell a Story

Essentially, your business is publishing its own magazine with a catalog.

It focuses on your products and services and the people, work, and mission that support your company.

Demonstrate your dedication to your business and the customers you serve. This will help you stand out by explaining why you’re different and better than your competitors.

Solve Customer Issues

Your customers have pain points.

After identifying those issues, show how your business addresses these challenges or how they can overcome them with your help inside the pages of your catalog.

Catalogs can be a powerful marketing tool if done correctly.

Partner with us as your printing provider to get the marketing expertise that makes a difference in your business. Let’s get started!

How to Attract More Qualified Leads Using Print Marketing

 Print media can be an effective tool for generating leads and capturing the interest of potential customers.

With 73% of all consumers showing a preference for print advertising, it's easy to see that print media is still an excellent business initiative today!

How to Attract More Qualified Leads Using Print Marketing

Both affordable and accessible, print marketing can be leveraged to increase your lead generation and capture. Here's how:

1. Identify Your Target Audience

To create effective print materials that will speak directly to your target audience, it is essential to clearly understand who they are, their needs and interests, and how they prefer to receive information.

2. Determine Your Print Materials

Once you have pinpointed your target audience, the next step is determining which print materials will be most effective for reaching them.

This may include business cards, brochures, flyers, magazines, newsletters, or postcards.

3. Design Your Materials

Having determined what materials you will use to reach your target audience, the design process can begin! 

The right images, colors, and fonts will resonate with your target audience and help reinforce your brand.

4. Select Quality Print Supplies

When printing your materials, don't overlook the importance of high-quality paper and ink to produce an eye-catching result.

Our expert team can advise you on the perfect products for your project! 

5. Track Your Success

After launching your print campaign, it is vital to track its success so you can determine what is working and where improvements need to be made.

This critical business strategy could include tracking website visits, social media engagement, and direct contact with your leads.

Capturing Leads Through Printed Materials

Integrating traditional and online marketing methods could prove invaluable in attracting more leads than either strategy alone. Consider these suggestions:

Personalized Mail

Using personalized letters to reach customers is a foolproof way to increase response rates.

To create an immediate bond with readers, tailor your direct mail campaigns to each region by incorporating local landmarks or events.

Response Cards

Direct mail campaigns are a great sales booster.

Your direct mail campaign can create incredible conversion rates with the right incentives and attractive offers.

Maximize this opportunity by creating attractive brochures and including order forms that can be sent back via the mail.

Consider using this for customer feedback surveys to identify areas where your business could grow.

Promote Online Resources with Print Products

Enhance your social media competitions by asking customers to post images of your product or store and include a unique hashtag only available through direct mail, postcards, or posters.

This is an effective way to ensure that participants have seen your print materials and are engaged in the promotion.

Business Cards

Exchange business cards with potential customers in a professional setting to ensure that your lead-generation efforts are successful.

You can ensure each party gains contacts or leads by taking the initiative and exchanging cards during networking events.

You could print specialized cards for trade shows or events demonstrating how your business fits in with the exhibition to stand out and make a lasting impression.

This will create an unforgettable memory of you and your brand - plus, quick follow-ups are an excellent way to rapidly grow your network of connections and possible sales opportunities.

Are you looking to increase the reach of your print marketing materials? We can help. Contact us for print media that is sure to make an impact!

4 Top Reasons to Use Direct Mail to Help Build Your Brand

 It would be best to build brand awareness when you start a business or revamp its image. So what's the best way to do this?

Direct mail!

Not only is it what your customers want, but it's also incredibly effective. Research shows that 73% of customers prefer direct mail over other marketing channels! And according to the Data & Marketing Association, in 2019, the average response rate for direct mail campaigns was 9%, and consumers engaged with 96% of direct mail.

So, why not take the plunge into direct mail?

4 Top Reasons to Use Direct Mail to Help Build Your Brand

Direct Mail is Terrifically Tangible

Unlike digital marketing and social media, direct mail requires you to touch it.

You may think digital is the way to go because people are always online. But the reality is that they are bombarded with online ads that they tend to ignore.

Direct mail, on the other hand, requires the viewer to pick it up and read it to take action, whether it's throwing it away or hanging it on the fridge. 

Furthermore, this tangible experience is significant in trust-building. It acts as social proof of your brand authenticity, which is excellent for your awareness-building marketing efforts.

Displays Your Expertise

Delivering whitepapers, reports, guides, newsletters, etc., to customers, without a call to action can help you grow awareness and develop trust.

Sending this type of content to customers sets you up as the expert. They will create an image of your business that causes customers to turn to you when they need your expertise.

Shows Your Audience You Know Them

Direct mail can pinpoint the right people at the right time.

Brand awareness means you know your target audience and get suitable marketing materials in front of them at the right time.

Direct mail is perfect for this as you can mail it out at the right time and send it to a targeted audience.

Improves Recall and Builds Trust

A growing body of evidence suggests that consumers trust direct mail because of the unique way that paper-based advertising connects with the parts of the brain that control how we feel and remember things.

A 2015 study by Canada Post showed that direct mail marketing "requires 21% less cognitive effort to process and elicits a much higher brand recall" than digital media. This helps build trust and recall.

Direct mail also involves more emotional processing than other channels, which is essential for memory and brand associations. As a result, your customers will remember your efforts more when you send direct mail.

When you use direct mail, you boost your image and build brand awareness. And when it's time to create something new, you know where to go. Contact us today!

5 Steps to Use the 60-30-10 Color Rule in Print Marketing

 

Designing eye-catching postcards, brochures, and business cards for your company might seem daunting- especially if you don’t have a background in graphic design.

But don’t fear! It’s easier than you think to bring visual appeal to your print marketing.

Follow this simple principle for how to use color, and you’ll be on your way!

5 Steps to Use the 60-30-10 Color Rule in Print Marketing

1. Choose Three Colors for Your Print Product

To begin, choose three colors that represent your company well.

If you have a signature color, use it as one of your three! And keep in mind that different colors communicate different emotions and meanings to your customers.

You should also make sure to select colors that fit together. If your colors clash, it will decrease the visual appeal of your design. 

A foolproof way to choose three colors that look well together is by choosing either analogous or complementary trios. Analogous colors are next to each other on the color wheel (ex. orange, red, and yellow), while, to determine one color’s complementary matches, you should draw a line straight across from it and then choose the two (ex. blue, red, and orange). 

2. The 60%

Next, you’ll need to designate which color will be the base of your design.

Following the rule, this first color should occupy 60% of your print marketing piece. 

This color will fill the most space, so it shouldn’t be the most vibrant of the three you’ve chosen. You can use this color for your primary background or large text blocks. 

3. The 30%

This will be your secondary color, which will take up 30% of the space in your printed piece.

It’s intended to draw attention to the more critical parts of your design. 

It’s wise to use this color for any headlines, sub-section titles, bolded words, or statistics within the text of your ad.

4. The 10%

Your final color is your accent color, which will only take up 10% of the space in your design.

This should also be the most vibrant and bold of the three you’ve chosen. 

This third color is best used to make your call-to-action stand out from the rest of your design. It draws your customer’s eye toward the piece you want them to interact with: a QR code, contact information, link to a social media account, or coupon code. 

5. Breaking the Rule

Maybe your company has a design idea, and it will take more than three colors to bring that idea to life. Don’t stress!

The 60-30-10 rule is a helpful way to get started with your use of color, but going outside the box is perfectly fine!

If you want to emphasize more than just one part of your print design, consider choosing two accent colors for your 10%- 5% of one and 5% of the other.

Another impactful idea is to go monochromatic. Rather than choosing three complementary colors for your design, you could use different shades of the same color.

Don’t be afraid to create your own formula if it feels right! Use the principles in the 60-30-10 rule to get started, but once you’ve got an idea of how different colors and shades work together, you can break the rules and find a balance that works for you.

Contact us today for expert advice on the best colors, paper, and print for your next campaign! 

5 Key Factors for Planning a Profitable Direct Mail Piece

 

Direct mail can be a fantastic way to spread the word about your company and promote new interest!

Regardless of the size of your budget, there are many cost-effective ways that a company can create engaging direct mail. 

Here are five budget-friendly tips to craft effective direct mail for your company!

5 Key Factors for Planning a Profitable Direct Mail Piece

1. Use Every Door Direct Mail® (EDDM®)

Purchasing a mailing list can be pricey.

But using EDDM® makes it possible for companies to send their direct mail to one specific mail route or multiple routes without investing in a mailing list.

To save your company money, consider sending your direct mail out through EDDM® rather than a mailing list- it will be far more profitable regarding production costs and postage.

2. Go Bold With Colors

If your company’s printing supplier does their printing digitally, don’t shy away from using lots of colors! 

This won’t increase the cost of printing, but it WILL catch your customers’ attention and boost your reply rates! 85% of consumers share that color and visual appearance are the most critical factor when considering whether or not to buy a product, compared to text, which only has 6% influence. 

3. Try a 2-Way Match Concept

If you design multiple components for your direct mail piece, such as a letter, reply card, and envelope, it will be processed as a 3-way match during manufacturing.

Instead, consider a different concept: create a single component with multiple pieces. You could use a perforated line to create a tear-off reply section, which will then be processed as a 2-way match of the letter and its envelope. 

This will cut down the manufacturing cost of printing your direct mail.

4. Keep it Light 

Keeping your mail’s weight in mind will serve your company’s budget well!

If you were hoping to include a small premium or token for customers with the mail, you don’t have to rule it out completely. 

There are many options for flat items that you can include without raising the cost of postage or requiring unique packaging. Coupon cards and discount codes, decals or stickers, magnets, bookmarks, and other small goodies can provide that engagement for customers without adding extra weight to your mail. 

5. Choose Paper and Envelopes Wisely

Getting creative with your direct mail designs is a great idea and can showcase your company’s personality to potential customers.

However, don’t underestimate the importance of the basics! 

One way to keep paper costs down is using text paper, cover stock, and neutral-colored papers since these are typical types we have on hand. Using these will save you time and money!

When choosing envelopes, consider the same thing. Standard-sized envelopes with standard windows will likely be the most available and, therefore, the most cost-effective option. 

Whatever the size of your budget, we are here to make your next print marketing campaign successful. Contact us today to learn more!

7 Powerful Postcard Direct Mail Ideas We Love

 

Postcards are a practical, versatile medium to send in your direct mail campaign. According to the Data & Marketing Association, postcards get a response rate of up to 4.25%, one of the highest in direct mail marketing.

Take advantage of this marketing method with seven postcard direct mail ideas we love! 

7 Powerful Postcard Direct Mail Ideas We Love

1. Switch up the norm

Although standard postcards are 4.25” by 5.5”, usually in a horizontal position, not all postcards are designed this way. 

Try switching it up with a larger postcard format with dimensions of 5.5” by 8.5” or change the orientation by sending a vertical postcard. These designs that deviate from the norm will stand out from the crowd and make the recipient take a second look. 

2. Make bold designs

With bright colors and attention-grabbing images, your postcard will speak for itself. 

Be bold in your design choices. The design significantly influences how long a piece stays in a home. Of course, adhere to your branding guide so the final design still looks like your company and produces the image you want to share. 

3. Include a compelling Call to Action (CTA)

Put yourself in your customers’ shoes and brainstorm what message would compel you to act. 

Whatever you decide, ensure the action you’re requesting is easy and will yield high rewards. For example, fill out this short questionnaire to receive a $10 gift card. Or perhaps visit our website by following this QR code to receive 50% off your next purchase.

4. Provide testimonials 

Center your postcard design around a couple of happy customers and their testimonials. 

Testimonials are powerful because they can increase overall conversions by 34%. Perhaps this is because 88% of consumers trust user reviews as much as recommendations from someone they know. Whatever the reason, providing testimonials boosts sales. 

Make sure to include short but impactful quotes. There’s not much room on a postcard, and you don’t want to oversaturate it. 

5. Send multiple postcards 

Sometimes marketers make the mistake of contacting a prospect once and then leaving it at that.

But clients often need multiple points of contact before the conversion. Therefore, make it part of your strategy to send several postcards to the same person over time. It’ll keep your business on their mind and give them the nudge they need to act. 

6. Personalize the postcard

The more personalized, the better. 

Some 84% of customers say being treated like a person instead of a number is very important to winning their business. Therefore, try to personalize your communications as much as possible. Identify all possible points of personalization and use what you know about the customer, such as demographics and past purchasing history.

Treat your customers as people, not numbers. 

7. Narrow your focus

Postcards don’t have a lot of surface area.

Therefore, narrow your focus on one key message to not overwhelm the client. Tie in this vital message with an attention-grabbing headline that is true to the intent of the postcard. 

We love postcards thanks to their unique benefits and versatility. Send the best postcard by following the above postcard ideas.

Contact us today to craft a compelling post card campaign that gets your customer's attention!

The Ultimate Guide to Running a Print + Email Campaign

 

Print and email campaigns are not an either-or situation. Instead, they work best when paired together, thanks to their unique, complimentary characteristics. 

The Ultimate Guide to Running a Print + Email Campaign

Why print? 

Print marketing has stuck around thanks to its many benefits. Print stands out from the crowd, is tangible, sticks around, and is easier to recall.

Why email? 

Email helps build customer relationships, boost brand awareness, and promote content. 

Email marketing has an extensive reach since there are about 4 billion email users worldwide. Due to its many benefits, 79% of marketers list email marketing in their top 3 most effective marketing channels.

A multi-channel approach to marketing is the most effective, perhaps because 72% of customers would like to connect with brands through multiple channels.

Here's what you need to know about crafting a winning print + email marketing campaign. 

The Print Campaign

A properly executed print campaign will drive sales. 

1. Choose Your Audience 

Create a list of people to send printed material to.

Ensure you're sending your print to the right customers for maximum impact. Often the most receptive clients are those who have already bought from you. 

2. Design the Print Marketing Piece

Ideal print marketing materials to pair with email include postcards, stickers, posters, flyers, and booklets. 

3. Increase Engagement & Brand Recognition

Be sure to include… 

• A call to action. Get the customer to act with a compelling call to action that gives them an offer they can't refuse.
• Personalization. The greater the personalization, the more receptive the customer will be. Include their name and other points of personalization.
• Design. Stick to your branding guide and let someone with design experience put it together. The design can make a big difference in capturing the customer's attention.  

4. Send out a Test Run of Your Print Campaign First

Print campaigns cost money, so you want to ensure your campaign will have a high return on investment.

Do a test run by sending the printed marketing piece to a smaller section of your target market. Monitor the results, and see what went well and what you could have done better. Apply this to the primary print marketing campaign. 

5. Be Patient

It can take time for results to come in.

This is in part because of the staying power of print. This means people will often set the printed piece aside on their fridge or table, which they'll get around to later. 

The Email Campaign

Email campaigns can look different ways, but below are some strategies that should help boost sales. 

Putting Together Your Email List

When putting together an email list, it's less important to worry about only sending it to the right customer because emails cost nothing.

Email's low cost is the main reason their return on investment is $36 for every $1 spent.

Instead, the focus should be on creating email segmentation for optimal personalization. Segment the email lists based on location, buyer stage, previous purchases, occupation, hobbies, etc. 

The hardest part of emails is acquiring the email list because, often, people do not want to share their personal information. Try giving them something valuable in return for their email (like an ebook, whitepaper, infographic, report, study, or template). 

General Email Marketing Tips

Below are some more general email tips: 

• Because 55% of emails are opened on phones, make sure the email is optimized for mobile
• Certain times lead to more opened emails than others. Research and test to find the time that works best for you.
• Craft a winning subject line. Draw the prospect in but don't mislead them.
• Follow proven, tested templates to save time and create the optimal email design. 
• Comply with email regulation laws. 

Follow these tips for your optimal email campaign. 

The Winning Strategy

Send a couple of emails, follow up with direct mail, and then send more emails. 

The first set of emails will get your company in the customers' minds. This way, they'll recognize your brand when they receive the printed piece in the mail. Then, follow up with more emails to remind the customer to act. 

Email allows you to reach the customer multiple times at a low cost. This is important because it usually takes about eight points of contact to make a sale. 

Contact us today if you want to take your print marketing strategy to the next level by combining it with email (or vice versa)! We are here to help!