5 Fresh Ideas for Business Cards

When it comes to increasing success and customer recognition for your business, it pays off to focus on the details. Don't underestimate the strength of the little things in your company- like business cards! 

From boosting customer loyalty to adding a personal touch to packaging, read on to discover five creative ways to use business cards to enhance your company today.

5 Fresh Ideas for Business Cards

1. Loyalty Cards

Rewarding your loyal customers is an essential way to ensure your company's success!

Why not incorporate a loyalty-reward aspect into your business cards? Simply print your company's logo and contact information on one side of the card, leaving space on the other for stamps or punch-out holes.

Incentivize the shopping experience for your customers by showing them that a freebie or discount is waiting for them after a certain number of visits or purchases. 

2. Appointment Reminders

If your company offers scheduled services or consultations, use the backside of your business card as an appointment reminder! 

This small card will help your customers keep track of when their appointment to meet with you, but it will also serve as a reminder of your brand- especially if you include your logo and signature colors on the card. Using a specific signature color on your business materials can increase brand recognition by 80%.

3. Product Tags

By punching a hole in the corner of your traditional business card, you can attach it to your product (whether it be clothing or the box of another type of product)! 

You can still include your company contact information on the tag, along with your logo, the price, and a short message about the product. Remember where the hole punch goes when designing your card, and consider using thicker paper to add durability!

4. Feedback Opportunities

Feedback is one of the most critical components for keeping your business strategy effective and staying ahead of the competition in your field.

You can use your business cards to collect it. 

On the back of your company's business card, add a question and leave some space for customers to write in their feedback, or use a number scale where they can circle their ratings. Then post a drop-box in your store where they can leave their replies when they stop in!

5. Bookmarks

Whether your company involves books or not, bookmarks are a helpful token that might increase the likelihood of customers holding onto your business card!

Remember to keep the design consistent with your brand's colors and logo so that customers will think of you whenever they see the bookmark. Of course, include your contact information, but consider adding a fun, colorful design or an encouraging message!

So, remember, the little things can make a big impact on your business's success, and business cards are no exception! Embrace these fresh business card ideas and watch how they contribute to brand recognition and customer loyalty! Contact us today to start your next business card order.

 

10 Key Marketing Terms Every Small Business Owner Needs to Know

If you're new to print marketing (or marketing in general) for your small business, it is easy to get confused by all the industry-specific jargon. But fear not. We're here to provide clarity and guidance!

Regardless of the print media you choose, be it postcards, brochures, or posters, implementing effective marketing strategies is essential for getting the best results. And a critical step towards success is gaining an understanding of the fundamental terms used in marketing.

Here is a list of 10 essential terms you need to know as a small business owner.

10 Key Marketing Terms Every Small Business Owner Needs to Know

1. Branding

Branding refers to all the processes that help create a unique business identity.

Effective branding is vital to making your business stand out from competitors in a positive way. Branding elements include your company's name, mission, logo, general theme, tone of voice, etc.

2. Content Marketing

Content marketing revolves around creating information intended to be consumed by an audience.

Good content should offer helpful information in an easy-to-read format, eventually driving more sales.

3. Lead

A lead is an individual or organization reached or engaged by your brand content.

They have shown a level of interest in your brand and are likely to make a purchase. Simply put, your leads are your potential customers. 

4. Lead Generation

Lead generation refers to a business's methods or tactics to attract potential customers (leads).

It often involves acquiring these would-be customers' contact and demographic details, learning about the target market, and eventually converting them into buyers.

5. Sales Funnel

The process that guides the leads you have generated from the time they discover your business to when they make a purchase is called the sales funnel.

It is typically made up of several steps in increasing levels of commitment for the lead until the sale is completed. The stages in a sales funnel are not the same for every business. While some use a simple 3-step model, others use a more complicated approach.

6. Buyer Persona

A buyer persona refers to a fictional individual with specific attributes that make them your ideal customer.

Knowing your buyer persona will help you adapt your marketing strategy to generate more leads.

7. Demographics

Demographics refer to the specific data or attributes that define your target audience.

Examples of demographics include age, sex, location, occupation, and income.

8. Call to Action (CTA)

A call to action is a prompt that urges readers to make a purchase or carry out some specific activity.

Some examples of CTAs are asking your reader to visit your website or contact customer service. Research shows that a good CTA can increase your conversions by up to 28%.

9. Testimonial

A testimonial is a positive review by your previous or current customer about your business.

Publishing a customer's statement about your product or service's value to them in your brochure or newsletter will boost your credibility and encourage potential customers.

10. Return on Investment (ROI)

Return on investment is a method of project evaluation.

It measures a business's profit (return) in carrying out a project with the money (investment) spent on that project. ROI can help you determine the most profitable marketing strategy for your business.

With a solid understanding of these fundamental terms, you're on your way to navigating the world of marketing with confidence!

Contact us for trustworthy and professional printing services—we're here to support your marketing projects!

 

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. 

 Print is a tried and true marketing method that holds significant trust and influence among consumers. 

With 82% of consumers placing their trust in print advertisements over other sources when making purchasing decisions, it's clear that print marketing remains a force to be reckoned with. Surprisingly, even the tech-savvy Millennial generation embraces print media - about 33% of them maintain active subscriptions to newspapers and magazines.

Having said that, while print marketing is undoubtedly a powerful tool, it still needs to be appropriately utilized to see the results that you're after. If you want to make the most of this print marketing opportunity for your small business, here are two strategies to consider.

Embracing Creative Shapes and Materials

The first thing you should do when designing print marketing collateral as a small business owner involves leveraging every opportunity to think outside the box and make an impression.

Case in point: the shape of your mailers.

Print marketing already has a leg up on other materials like digital because it is tangible, and people can hold it in their hands and pin it up on their refrigerator for later. But if you send out materials in standard shapes, you risk getting lost in the sea of every other piece of mail someone happened to get that day.

Even sending out larger, odd-sized envelopes or pieces in shapes that aren't perfect squares or rectangles is a great way to stand out and get noticed. 

The same is true of experimenting with heavier card stock when printing. Sometimes, feeling different from everything else in someone's mailbox is all you need to make that first impression people can't get enough of.

The Power of Personalization in Print

Print marketing is a great way to get consumers' attention because you're using it! But you want to lean into targeted, personalized offers whenever possible to keep their attention.

One of the reasons digital marketing is seen as less effective than it could be is that it is inherently cold and impersonal. It's easy to whip up an email to send to people, but once they realize that the same generic message just went out to thousands of people, they will mostly tune it out. It's even easier to delete it and never look at it again.

To get started with a personalized campaign, separate your customers into groups based on what you know about them. Dive into the data being created about them daily and see what insights you can learn about them.

What do they like? What do they dislike? What purchases have they recently made, and how can you help them get the most out of them? Can you offer someone value without necessarily expecting something in return? Thinking about these questions and crafting your direct mail collateral based on their answers is a great chance to utilize print to make the most positive, lasting impression possible.

If you're eager to learn more about utilizing the full power of print marketing for your small business, or if you'd like to discuss your needs with someone in more detail, please don't hesitate to contact us today.

 

9 Ways to Let Creative Freedom Ring in Your Next Print Marketing Campaign

Print advertising is a powerful way to engage customers and promote your brand.
 
Print marketing can be even more effective when done correctly, allowing businesses to create experiences that genuinely connect with their target audiences!
 
You can be confident that your message resonates and drives action with the right strategy and creative ideas.

9 Ways to Let Creative Freedom Ring in Your Next Print Marketing Campaign

1. Use Bold Typography

Make sure your message stands out by using bold typography.

Whether a large headline or an eye-catching font, ensure your words stand out and attract attention.

2. Play with Colors

Color is one of the most powerful tools for print marketing.

Use colors that reflect your brand and complementary hues that will draw customers' eyes to your message.

3. Utilize Unique Shapes

Instead of keeping everything in a linear format, use shapes and lines to create interest and depth.

This can be a great way to break up the monotony on a page and make your message more visually engaging.

4. Embrace White Space

Don't be afraid to use white space in your print marketing materials.

It allows the reader to take a breath and can help you emphasize important parts of your message, such as a headline or call-to-action.

5. Incorporate Imagery

Images are often more powerful than words, so include them in your print marketing materials.

Photos should accurately reflect the message you're trying to convey and draw readers into the piece.

6. Use Unique Materials

When it comes to print marketing, one size does not fit all.

Try using unique materials such as card stock, metallic ink, or unique textures to add a touch of flair and intrigue.

7. Feature Testimonials

Showcase positive customer feedback in your print materials, such as quotes or reviews.

This helps establish credibility and trust with your potential customers.

8. Include Calls to Action

Guide readers through the customer journey by including a clear call to action on your print materials.

This could be by clicking a URL, calling a phone number, or visiting your store in person. 

9. Leverage Social Media

Use print marketing as an opportunity to direct readers to your social media pages.

Include your handles or QR codes so customers can easily connect with you online.

What are Some Creative Print Marketing Materials for Businesses?

Businesses can create creative marketing materials to increase awareness of their brand, products, and services.

Each of these materials has the potential to reach different audiences in various ways and can be tailored for specific target markets.

Posters

Posters provide ideal visibility for businesses in public places such as bus stations, grocery stores, and restaurants.

They are often used to promote an event or announce special offers.

Flyers

Flyers are ideal for getting information about a business, product, or service to a large audience quickly and easily.

Postcards

Postcards are an effective way to attract attention and spread the word about a business.

Newsletters

Newsletters provide customers with regular updates about a business, its products, services, and other newsworthy items.

They're great for building relationships with customers over time.

Presentation folders

Presentation folders give customers a professional and organized impression of a business.
 
Print marketing campaigns are a great way to engage customers and convey your message. 
 
Need help bringing your creative vision to life? That's what we're here for! Contact us today for print marketing materials that make an impact.
 
Happy Printing!

 

3 Inspiring Complementary Color Combinations 

Did you know that 93% of shoppers focus primarily on visual appearance when making a purchase?

This is precisely why colors can be so important when it comes to the way that your print designs impact your audience! Understanding which colors pair together well and which don't make your printed marketing materials look more professional and appealing. 

One concept that's especially helpful to remember when designing your printed materials is complementary colors. Complementary colors fall directly across from one another on the color wheel. 

Using complementary colors creates a defined, vibrant, and bold look for your design. Make sure to choose shades of those colors that flatter one another, and avoid combining too many different pairings of complementary colors within the same print design to prevent a clashing look. 

Go ahead and use these complementary color pairings to level up your next print design.

3 Inspiring Complementary Color Combinations 

1. Blue and Orange

If you incorporate these colors into your company's advertising, they might combine to make an excellent experience for your customers. 

Blue psychologically evokes feelings of stability, trust, and calm. With this in mind, you could use it to reinforce consumers' confidence in your brand. Use blue coloring for any guarantees or certification logos on your print materials. 

Orange is also a very strategic color that you can use to encourage customer engagement. It symbolizes creativity, enthusiasm, and accomplishment. Just like red, this is one of the more intense colors, so you can use it to emphasize the call-to-action in your print design.

2. Yellow and Purple

These two colors can be flattering when paired together for print designs.

Yellow is a fantastic choice for marketing materials. It commonly creates feelings of positivity, happiness, and fun, which can be used to your company's advantage. Highlight sale prices with yellow, or use it as your design's border color or background.

Purple is typically best to use as an accent color in your design so that its darkness doesn't overtake the rest of the print. It's still great to include since it's tied psychologically to feelings of luxury, royalty, and wisdom. 

3. Red and Green

While it's probably best to stick to either deeper shades of these colors or more soft pastel tones unless you're aiming for a more Christmas-like theme, these two are great options for your print marketing.

The color red provokes feelings of urgency, increases appetite, and encourages action. As one of the boldest and most intense colors on the color wheel, consider using it to draw attention to important parts of your print design, like a call to action or a bubble icon advertising a sale. 

On the other hand, the color green typically reminds customers of health, nature, and growth. Consider using green in your print materials if you're selling a nature or health-related product.

By leveraging these inspiring complementary color combinations, you can elevate the impact of your print designs and make a lasting impression on your target audience.

Do you want to experiment with colors and unleash the full potential of your next print marketing campaign? Contact us today, and we can help you get started.

 

9 Color Combinations That Capture Attention in Print

When it comes to designing for print, color combinations play an essential role in drawing the eye of your consumers.

Colors should be chosen thoughtfully to create a compelling visual design that conveys your project's specific purpose and message, ultimately helping your company make a memorable impact. 

Each color combination has unique characteristics and can evoke different emotions and responses from viewers. Here are 13 captivating color combinations to elevate your design.

9 Color Combinations That Capture Attention in Print

1. Analogous

This combination consists of three to five colors beside each other on the color wheel.

It gently transitions from one hue to another, creating an inviting atmosphere. Analogous colors are great for creating a specific mood or evoking emotion.

2. Complementary

This color combination is based on two colors found at opposite ends of the color wheel. 

These colors create a bold contrast and add excitement to your print materials. Be mindful of balancing the proportions of each color to maintain visual harmony and avoid overwhelming the viewer.

3. Triadic

This color palette uses three equally spaced colors on the color wheel.

They create a lively, vibrant color palette and appear more harmonious than complementary color combinations. It offers many possibilities for incorporating different hues and tones, enabling you to find the perfect color combination to reflect your brand's personality.

4. Monochromatic

This combination uses various tints and shades of a single color.

Monochromatic colors are harmonious and calming, creating a unified design. By playing with light and dark within the same color family, you can add depth and dimension to your print designs. 

5. Tetradic

A pattern of four colors evenly spaced on the color wheel, the tetradic combination balances warm and cool tones to create an eye-catching look with lots of variety.

6. Split Complementary

The split complementary palette uses a base color and two colors next to its complementary color on the color wheel.

It is a modification of the complementary combination that offers greater versatility in design.

7. Pastel

This color palette uses muted versions of brighter hues or tints of pure colors.

Pale and subtle, this combination creates a soothing, peaceful atmosphere. Use them to add a subtle touch of elegance and sophistication to your print materials.

8. Rainbow

This color arrangement utilizes the full spectrum of colors from red to violet.

It can be used to create dynamic designs with high visual impact.

9. Earth Tones

This combination includes natural shades like browns, greens, yellows, and blues.

These colors evoke a sense of warmth, stability, and connection to nature and are often selected for organic, natural designs.

Can Color Combinations Help Draw Attention to My Company?

No matter what type of print project you are working on, understanding how color combinations work together can help create compelling visual designs that capture attention and convey the purpose and message of your project.

Let us help you experiment with combinations to find the perfect colors for your brand and needs. Contact us today by phone or email to create your next marketing masterpiece.

 

7 Things Your Packaging Says About Your Brand

The packaging of your product is so much more than just a container—it says a lot about your brand and the values it stands for.

Everything about your packaging communicates something about who you are as an organization and what you offer, from the materials used to the design elements.

Considering these details can make a big difference in how customers perceive your product and the values your brand represents.

Here are seven things to consider when designing packaging for your products.

7 Things Your Packaging Says About Your Brand

1. Quality

Good packaging will give your brand a sense of quality, creating customer trust and loyalty.

High-quality packaging materials such as foil prints or embossing add a luxurious element to any product.

At the same time, low-cost options like cardboard boxes or plastic bags provide an affordable way to package items safely and neatly.

2. Brand Recognition

Your packaging is the first thing customers will see when they interact with your product, so make sure it stands out and conveys your brand's personality.

Use bright colors or eye-catching graphics to create a lasting impression. You can even include logos or taglines that reinforce your mission and values.

3. Professionalism

Professional packaging says a lot about your business.

Investing in high-quality boxes or bags with elegant designs and strong materials will show that you take pride in the presentation of your product.

Customers will appreciate the extra effort and may even encourage them to share photos of their purchases online.

4. Versatility

Packaging should be versatile enough to accommodate any product size, shape, or weight.

Invest in various packaging options that can easily adjust to different products and shipping methods.

This will make your business look more organized and efficient, reflecting well on your brand.

5. Sustainability

Customers are increasingly demanding environmentally friendly packaging solutions.

Invest in packaging materials that are biodegradable or recyclable to demonstrate your commitment to sustainability and minimize your environmental impact.

This will show customers that you care about the planet and may even encourage them to purchase from you again.

6. Convenience

Your packaging should also be convenient for both shipping and storing.

Invest in lightweight packaging that stacks so it can be shipped with minimal cost and effort. Consider using air-filled cushioning materials or tamper-proof seals to ensure items are safe during transit.

Additionally, invest in packaging solutions that allow customers to easily store products at home, such as resealable bags or containers with handles.

7. Cost-Effectiveness

Regarding packaging, you don't want to sacrifice quality for cost.

Look for ways to save money while ensuring your products are packaged properly and securely.

Invest in bulk packaging materials or explore different shipping methods that can reduce the overall cost of shipping without compromising safety or professionalism.

Your packaging should reflect your brand's values while providing convenience and cost-effectiveness.

From sustainability to professional design, ensure your packaging sends the right message about your business.

Thinking it's time to redesign your packaging? We can help you create print packaging that will leave a lasting impression on your customers. Contact us to get started!

 

8 Ways to Excel at Customer Service Using Print

Print products play a vital role in creating an excellent customer service experience.

Whether printed brochures, business cards, or promotional items, print can make a lasting impression on customers, helping businesses stand out from the competition and build long-lasting relationships.

Printed materials do more than impart knowledge; they can also improve the customer's experience with your business.

They aid in helping your potential customers decide whether or not working with you is right for them, offering an ideal way of prequalifying yourself and your business.

If excellence in customer service is your goal, check out how you can use print to make it happen more effectively.

8 Ways to Excel at Customer Service Using Print

1. Show Appreciation

A thank you letter or card expressing appreciation for your customers is a great way to show how much you value their business.

Print products are also perfect for creating loyalty programs and offering rewards to keep customers returning.

2. Provide Resources

Customers should have access to all the necessary resources; printing makes this easier.

Printed collateral such as customer manuals, training materials, or product catalogs is excellent for providing information to customers quickly and easily.

Additionally, print materials make it easy to give customers a clear understanding of the products and services you provide, keeping expectations realistic.

3. Promote Your Brand

Print products can be used to promote your brand in various ways.

Business cards, flyers, brochures, and other printed pieces are perfect for creating a strong presence in the market.

4. Increase Visibility

Print products can promote your business and increase visibility in the marketplace.

Posters, banners, and flags printed with your logo or message can help get your company's name out to the public.

5. Connect With Customers

Printed products are great for connecting with customers on a personal level.

Customized greeting cards, calendars, and even personalized postcards are a great way to stay connected with your customers.

6. Generate Leads

Printed materials can also be used to generate leads and increase sales.

Brochures, flyers, and mailers are just some of the many ways to reach potential customers and create awareness about your brand.

7. Gather Feedback

The best way for a business to improve is by getting customer feedback. Providing your clients with customer service surveys printed on custom forms is beneficial.

This will help you understand what things are working and what areas need improvement regarding customer service.

8. Improve Brand Recognition

Branded disposable items such as coffee cups, sleeves for coffee cups, coasters, bags, etc., offer an excellent way to add value to a customer's purchase and create a memorable experience.

By utilizing print, you can ensure your customers have the best possible experience with your business.

Whether providing resources, showing appreciation, or generating leads, print products are essential for creating excellent customer service experiences that keep customers returning.

Want to take your customer service to the next level? Print is the answer you're looking for. Let us help! Contact us to get started today!

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. 

8 Reasons Getting Your Print Needs Locally Helps You Win Every Time

When you think of printing your projects, going with an online company might seem easy and quick. However, there are numerous benefits to choosing a local print shop for all of your printing needs!

Not only can going local provide personalized service and high-quality work, but you also get the satisfaction of supporting a business in your community.  

Here are a few more reasons why getting printing done locally can be an intelligent choice for you.

8 Reasons Getting Your Print Needs Locally Helps You Win Every Time

1. Paper Choices

When you print a project, you want to choose the perfect paper.

Making this selection online is tough. You can't feel it, touch it and see precisely what you are getting.

Going to your local printer allows you to do just this. You can touch the paper, feel its weight and size, and experience what your project will look and feel like. 

2. Premium Finishes

You might want to try premium finishes when going all out and want something different to grab your customers' attention.

Seeing these samples in person will allow you to choose your project's exact finish. You can't do this online.

3. Support Local

When you print locally, your dollars stay in the community.

You are supporting them, just as they will support you. Think network marketing. You'll be able to refer each other to customers looking for each other's services.

In fact, for every $100 spent, roughly $68 to $73 returns to local activity. Money is kept in the community because locally-owned businesses often purchase from other local companies, service providers, and farms.

4. Quicker Turnaround

Typically, we can offer a quicker turnaround than online.

Online printers manage thousands of orders each day. Yours will be dropped into a queue, and it will get done when it gets done…and don't forget to consider shipping time. 

5. Solving Problems

If, by chance, something happens to your printing project, you have an immediate solution when printing in person rather than online.

We want to know your business goals and help you make informed decisions.

6. No Shipping Fees

You don't have to pay for shipping and handling when you print locally.

We will let you know when the project is ready for you to pick up!

7. Great Pricing

Many people mistakenly think that printing locally costs more, but this could not be farther from the truth.

Most local printing firms will be competitively priced. We know what other printers offer and pay special attention to keeping our costs low.

8. We Care

We care about our service and reputation more than online companies do.

That means you will get better customer service, options, and solutions for your projects.

These are only a few reasons you should choose your local printer rather than online.

If you are looking for a local printer who offers quality, customer service, and pride in their craft, look us up.

How Does Content Impact My Print Marketing Materials?

 When marketing your business via print, it's easy to get overwhelmed with the different options for crafting memorable and attractive pieces.

But when you look closer, what is the most important element of your print marketing materials?

Simply put, content is king.

Sure, your visuals are eye-catching, but those initial glances won't do you much good if there's no substance to back them up.

Words ultimately provide the foundation for customers to connect with your brand and make purchasing decisions. Carefully chosen words make something tangible from an intangible concept and shape even the strongest visuals into iconic imagery.

When drafting print marketing materials, it's vital to remember - it's your content that wows customers and culminates in conversions!

How Does Content Impact My Print Marketing Materials?

Here are a few ways good content can have a positive impact on your print marketing materials:

1. Good Content Keeps Print Products Memorable

Good content helps capture and hold readers' attention, giving the printed material staying power.

2. Good Content Gets Your Message Across

Content that is well-crafted and written engagingly can help to convey a message or idea firmly.

3. Good Content Sheds Favorable Light on Products and Services

High-quality content fosters a positive impression of the product or service being promoted.

4. Good Content Encourages Action

A print marketing piece containing good content will prompt readers to take action related to the advertised product or service.

5. Good Content Builds Brand Trustworthiness

Good content can help establish credibility and trust with customers, increasing their likelihood of engaging with the advertised material.

What Does Good Content Help Accomplish?

Good content is an effective tool to help you accomplish many goals.

Among the benefits your business can reap from high-quality content in your print materials are:

• It informs, educates, and entertains readers.
• It increases brand recognition.
• It generates leads and customers.
• It establishes credibility in your field.
• It fosters trust between you and your audience.
• It increases website traffic.
• It strengthens relationships with current customers or clients.

What Does Good Content Look Like?

A 2019 survey conducted by Lyfe Marketing yielded a fascinating statistic: 92% of individuals between the ages of 18 and 23 prefer reading the content found in a print ad to that found on a website. 

What does this mean for today's modern business?

People actually take the time to read the content found in print advertisements!

Good content is easy to identify. It should be clear, concise, engaging, and written in a tone that speaks directly to the target audience's needs.

How Can I Improve the Content in My Print Marketing Materials?

Here are a few key points to ensure your print marketing content hits its mark:

• Good content starts with a well-written headline or title.
• Include only relevant information that serves a purpose.
• Make use of visuals to enhance your message.
• Keep the tone appropriate for your target customer.
• Have someone else review your content for clarity and accuracy before it goes to print.

Good content is the key to your print marketing materials that make an impression and inspire action from potential customers.

We can help your content stand out on the printed page. Contact us today to get started!

5 Aspects of Your Reputation You Can Showcase With Your Print Pieces

 Print products say a lot about who you are as a brand.

What message do you hope to convey to the world?

What kind of image do you want to present?

Print pieces such as business cards, brochures, flyers, and banners are all prime opportunities to showcase your company's personality and values.

Here are some things your print pieces may convey about your reputation.

5 Aspects of Your Reputation You Can Showcase With Your Print Pieces

1. Your Level of Trustworthiness

When potential customers see your print marketing materials, they make assumptions about your level of trustworthiness.

A recent poll conducted by Marketing Sherpa indicated that 82% of internet shoppers were more likely to make a purchase based on a print ad, feeling they are more trustworthy than other types of advertising. 

This is especially true if the design and materials utilized for your print pieces are high-quality.

By taking extra care to produce a beautiful, professional print piece, your potential customers will be more likely to view you as an established and trustworthy business.

2. How Well You Know Your Target Audience

By paying attention to the trends your audience responds to, you can create print pieces that show you understand their likes and dislikes.

If you understand what your potential customers want, they'll be more likely to trust your brand and build a connection with you.

Your print pieces should also be designed to connect with your audience emotionally.

Creating visuals that evoke positive emotions ensures your message resonates with customers and prospects.

Using the right combination of visuals and words will help to create a solid emotional bond between your brand and its target audience, resulting in increased loyalty and brand engagement.

3. How Much You Value Quality

Not all print materials are created equally! 

It's vital that each piece of your print collateral is printed on high-quality paper and features an eye-catching design.

Ensuring this indicates that you value quality. Customers deeply value businesses that take extra care to make sure each of their printed pieces looks great.

This level of detail helps your audience to see that you're a brand that cares about its image and that is committed to delivering quality products and services.

4. Your Creativity

Putting in the effort to craft unique designs that set your company apart from competitors will solidify potential customers' perception of your business as creative and innovative.

Colorful and creative print designs can also be used to capture the attention of potential customers while at the same time conveying enthusiasm, innovation, and optimism about your brand's identity.

Bold typefaces and vibrant, eye-catching visuals can make an impression that stays in your readers' minds long after reading the piece. 

5. The Superiority of Your Product

Well-written print pieces highlight key features or benefits of a product in an informative and accessible manner to help customers understand why they should choose one brand over another – ultimately leading them to associate positive experiences with your company's offerings.

By understanding the power of printed materials, you can create marketing collateral that conveys the right message and helps to establish your brand as a trustworthy and reliable choice.

Contact us today to get started!

6 Top Ways to Promote Your Brand Via Word of Mouth

 You want the word out…the good word! But how does that happen organically?

Sometimes it takes some help to brand your business and get word-of-mouth advertising. There are so many things you can do to help it along. Let’s take a look.

6 Top Ways to Promote Your Brand Via Word of Mouth

1. Hire an influencer

Sometimes using an influencer helps spur word-of-mouth advertising.

This method creates an image in people’s minds and gets people talking about what you offer. A recent study by Sideqik found that 7 out of 10 consumers trust influencers’ recommendations just as much as the opinion of real-world friends.

If you can’t get a significant influencer, try contacting a micro-influencer. Reach out to bloggers, video bloggers, or DIYers with a smaller following whose goal is to share subject matter expertise by producing tutorials, shout-outs, how-to guides, day-in-the-life videos, and so on. 

2. Create a unique experience

Get people to talk about your business because you treated them so well that they can’t stop talking about it.

No company wants bad publicity, but people are quick to speak. So make sure you do all you can to offer what you promise and surpass it.

Try adding a thank you note or a gift to the order. According to SDL, more than half of all consumers (58%) share their positive experiences with a company on social media.

3. Keep branding elements consistent

No matter how you promote your business and brand, you must ensure your language is appropriate for your specific audience. 

Think about the kind of language you use in your marketing materials, signage, and slogan, as well as on your social media profiles. Does it convey the image that you want to associate with your brand?

Additionally, pick engaging colors and fonts but keep them consistent across all print and packaging materials to create a branding impression that remains in your audience’s mind.

4. Solve a real problem

No matter who is talking about you, they will spread the word if you can help them solve an issue.

Make it obvious how you can help. Then, when they try out your product, they can see the truth and tell their friends.

5. Use a visual trigger

Create a space people want to snap pictures with or near and share on social media.

First, play it up if you have a unique decorating style, an unusual prop, a photo, art, or other items. Then, encourage people to take and post pictures next to it.

6. Use a hashtag

Hashtags are a way to categorize content on social media by topic or theme, e.g., #printmarketing. If you create a hashtag that includes your business name and encourage visitors to use it when posting about your business, potential customers can use it to find you online. So it will boost your name recognition.

While tracking whether the sales came from the hashtag or some other channel can be tricky, this simple tactic helps build more vital brand awareness.

The possibilities are as endless as your creativity. If you need more ideas, especially in the printed realm, check us out today!

4 Simple Steps to Set Intentions

 

It's that time of year again: Time to re-evaluate your life, business, and goals.

Setting intentions for this year will help you fulfill them and be more successful than setting a resolution. Both practices require looking at yourself and making changes. But an intention isn't as harsh as a resolution.

Rather than setting goals for where you want to go, creating intentions shifts your attitude and mindset toward how you want to be. It allows you to take steps and be proud of them. How does one do this? Take a look at these four steps to setting intentions.

4 Simple Steps to Set Intentions 

1. Evaluate Yourself

If you want more knowledge, energy, and creativity, you have to start by taking a step back and looking inward. 

This is true even for leaders who don't have time, perhaps, especially for them!

"Spending time casting our thoughts back over the past day, week, or month and sitting down to regularly set goals for the future feels like a luxury of time [executives] can't afford. But the truth is, these practices are proven to lead to more productivity and better performance from the world's best leaders."

2. Envision Success

This is not "an exercise in magical thinking; rather, it is a way for us to program our brain and our subconscious toward what we want to see happen."  

Studies show that if we envision something positive, we are more likely to see it come to fruition.

Likewise, if we envision something negative, we set ourselves up for this.

3. Get Away From Fear-Based Goals

Don't beat yourself up trying to achieve something this year.

Intentions will be more of a goal without negative implications. "Positive intentions can help us take action with self-compassion rather than the sense of pressure that goals create."

4. Write Down Your Intentions

Create a picture, write it on a sticky note or simply write it on a piece of paper next to your bed.

Then, contemplate it daily so you can focus on what you intend to do.

"The intention I set in the morning informs my day in subtle or profound ways depending on the extent to which I keep it in my conscious awareness."

These are a few ways to set intentions instead of resolutions; if you try them, you might be surprised at what you accomplish. In addition, you will be more at peace and able to enjoy life while accomplishing things daily.

If you are trying to tackle a big project at the office, let us help. Set an intention to check out our website today!

Why You Should Develop an Abundance Mindset

 

An abundance mindset is when you believe there are enough resources in the world for everyone and are grateful for what you have. 

This is in opposition to the scarcity mindset, which believes the earth contains limited resources. This mindset creates an overly competitive lifestyle and envy for others because the person tends to focus on what they don’t have. This mindset is damaging because it promotes unhappiness and less fulfilling relationships. 

Why You Should Develop an Abundance Mindset

Having an abundance mindset helps you create a happier, more fulfilling life for yourself. 

It comes with many benefits. An abundance mindset … 

• Promotes personal and professional success by letting you focus on the many opportunities.
• Helps you feel confident and capable.
• Generates creativity and motivation through a more proactive approach to life.
• Makes you feel better about yourself.
• Deepens your relationships. 

If you’ve been struggling with a lack of motivation, envy for others, and discontent with your present situation, try adopting an abundance mindset using the following strategies. 

Identify Your Negative Beliefs for an Abundance Mindset 

Everyone has subconscious beliefs about themselves. 

Sometimes these beliefs are negative and often untrue, limiting the person’s full potential because they’re held back by these beliefs. 

For example, someone may believe that they are destined for failure. This belief will hold you back from success, so working on changing it is important. 

• Step 1: Identify your negative belief. In this case, it’s the belief that you are destined for failure.
• Step 2: Ask yourself where this negative belief came from. Did it originate from past failures?
• Step 3: Ask yourself if this belief is true. Do past failures guarantee future disappointments? Are you focusing on past failures and ignoring all your successes to maintain this negative belief?
• Step 4: Ask yourself if this negative belief is helpful. If not, how damaging is it? How has it harmed you in the past? Where has it been influencing your behavior?
• Step 5: Change your negative belief. By this point, hopefully, you’ve discovered your negative thought isn’t true, nor is it helpful. Start by telling yourself success is possible. Notice when your negative belief appears, and challenge it. 

Identifying, challenging, and changing your negative beliefs is difficult. However, keep at it; you’ll be better off in the long run. 

Be Grateful for an Abundance Mindset

Gratitude is when you focus on the good things in your life and be grateful for them. 

Everyone is subjected to positive and negative events throughout their day, and some days the balance is quite off. However, people can choose what they focus on. If you’re struggling, start by finding three things you’re grateful for daily.  

Go With the Flow for an Abundance Mindset

Many people hate change and fight against it. 

However, change is the one constant in this unpredictable world. View change as an opportunity for new experiences. Even if the situation seems like a step down from your previous one, try viewing it with curiosity. 

Do What You Love for an Abundance Mindset

Filling your life with people and activities you love will make it much easier to feel happy and grateful, promoting an abundance mindset. 

Don’t expect to love every part of your day, but if you dislike most of your days, perhaps it’s time to brainstorm ways to fill your life with more of what you love. 

Celebrate Your Success for an Abundance Mindset

Often success is brushed off, and each new milestone begins with a focus on the next goal. 

What is a past success, big or small, that you didn’t take the time to celebrate? Write it down and make time to celebrate it. Late is better than never. 

In the future, be on the lookout for your successes and accomplishments.

Following these tips will help you on your way to fostering a more abundant mindset. We hope an abundance mindset will benefit your personal life and your business. Good luck!   

5 Reasons Every Small Business Should Send Holiday Cards

 It's time to decide if you're sending holiday cards to your clients!

Sending cards in the mail to your clients and customers does a lot more for your company than you might think. Take a look at five reasons you should extend the extra effort to send out holiday cards.

5 Reasons Every Small Business Should Send Holiday Cards

1. Elicit Joy

Emotions play an integral part in the buying decision, and sending a holiday card will boost those feelings.

It makes people happy to receive fun mail in their mailboxes. And a card is a lovely, elegant touch.

2. Send Thanks

Thank your customers for their continued support throughout the year.

The wording should express your thanks or seasonal greetings in a way that highlights your relationship with your client. 

3. Stand Out

Raise above the competition.

Many businesses digitally wish people holiday greetings, but those get lost in the junk email category. By sending an actual card, people will notice and be more appreciative. 

4. Show You Care 

A simple card means a lot during the holidays.

Small acts of kindness significantly impact client loyalty, and they may keep a client from looking elsewhere. 

5. Break Through the Noise

A sales flyer might not get read, but a holiday card will.

It makes people feel warm and fuzzy and keeps them thinking of your company.

As the holidays approach, we want to thank you for your business. 

If you need help with your holiday cards, we have many options. Contact us today!

7 Top Ways to Show Appreciation to Customer

 

Gratitude is a great skill to possess.

"I think gratitude is a big thing. It puts you in a place where you're humble," said Andra Day. 

And humility is a wonderful attribute, primarily when serving the public. When you meet up with prospective clients, gratitude is vital. We receive a much better welcome when people see how thankful we are to meet with them and to have their continued support. 

Research has proven that returning customers spend 67% more than new customers, and 82% of customers are brand loyal.

So, what else can you do to show appreciation besides saying thank you?  

Here are some ideas to show your gratitude.

 7 Top Ways to Show Appreciation to Customers

1. Send a Thank-You Note

Send a thank-you note in a letter, hand-written and signed by you.

Sure, it takes a little time, but keeping current customers happy is worth it—especially the ones you genuinely want to maintain a relationship with.

2. Make a Donation

Donate to something close to your customers' hearts.

If they support a worthy cause you can get behind, consider donating something to these causes in their name. 

3. Offer a Discount

Offer a discount just for them.

One of the easiest ways to build customer loyalty is by rewarding your customers for their business with loyalty cards and retail rewards.

4. Do a Giveaway

Offer a giveaway prize package.

Want to share the love and give out prizes to your fans? Running a giveaway is a great way to show your appreciation. This will excite customers, and they might even tell their friends and colleagues. 

5. Offer Free Services

Offer more free services if possible.

When people began to feel the impact of the coronavirus and social distancing, some companies went above and beyond to help people adjust to a challenging new reality.

Some companies offered free services or better deals on their products. When there is a stressor in your customers' lives, help out a little more. People notice it and will appreciate your help.

6. Talk Face-To-Face

Engage in face-to-face conversations with your clients.

Ultimately, people want to be seen and heard. Engaging with them in a conversation over video chat or, better yet, in person is a perfect way to thank them for supporting your company daily.

Listen to them rather than just pitching your ideas. Ask about their business and learn how you can genuinely help each other.

7. Acknowledge Them on Social Media

Feature customers on your blog or social media.

If they had a big event that you were able to be a part of, or help with in some way, show it. Portray pictures of the big day with words from them as to how the day went.

This is great to help celebrate their day. It's also great to get the word out about how you help people.

Whatever you choose to show appreciation will elevate your customer relationship and nurture long-lasting bonds. If you need help printing stationary or customized packaging, let us know. We would love to help!

5 Leadership Tips For Marketers

Being a leader is a big job, but what does it mean to be a great leader? And how will it transfer into your marketing efforts?

5 Leadership Tips For Marketers

1. Lead by example

You need to show up and lead in how you work. You will not be an effective leader if you talk a big game but don’t do anything.

If you promise to do something, do it. If you offer to explain something, explain it.

Show your employees how effective you are by how much you do (versus just saying what you do). This translates into your marketing efforts when your business follows through on its promises.

When customers see you are a person of your word, it makes a big statement.

2. Be humble

When someone does something above and beyond, acknowledge them. Don’t always talk about yourself. This is true in marketing too.

Show the customer what you can do to help them, rather than just bragging about your achievements.

3. Take care of yourself

Take part in a hobby that might introduce you to new people and prospects.

Make sure you are getting enough rest so that you are refreshed.

One study found that 45% of adults with less than eight hours of sleep were irritable, 52% lost their patience, and 40% felt overwhelmed.

When you aren’t rested, it’s hard to come up with new ideas for your business, and it’s hard to enjoy yourself.

4. Strategic thinking is a must

To be an effective leader, you must have a vision for where you want to go and what you want to accomplish. This is also true in marketing. You need to know what you hope to achieve with each piece you send.

A strategy fails because it’s not defined and communicated well.

Leaders must understand the company’s business goals and align the marketing department to meet and exceed those objectives.

5. Be comfortable being uncomfortable

In business, you must go with the flow and be flexible with situations. No one could have predicted the COVID-19 pandemic, but it impacted all of us.

Businesses need to be able to come up with new strategies when things change.

This is the case in marketing as well, as we need to shift our marketing to reach our audience where they are.

There are so many facets to being a great leader and marketer, and these are only a few. We want to help you continue to be the proactive leader you are.

That’s why we want to team up with you to produce your best marketing products ever.

Contact us today to get started!

Customer Service Excellence for Team Members

Excellent customer service is an essential aspect of your most valuable asset: your customers.

Customer service is so vital that it can be a powerful competitive advantage. 70% of Americans have spent more money on better service, according to Forbes. 

Excellent customer service is not solely for the customer service representatives. Instead, everyone on the team should practice exceptional customer service because every job ultimately affects the customer. 

Below is a list of concrete ways your team members can exceed your customer’s expectations.

Customer Service Excellence: Hire Smart

Certain personalities and strengths are better suited for customer service jobs. Hiring the right people will set the company and employees up for success. 

When hiring, look for people who excel in the following traits. 

• Problem-solving. Give the interviewee a scenario and ask how they would proceed.
• Communication. Ask the interviewee to explain a complex topic.
• Listening. Tell the interviewee a little bit about yourself and the company. Check to see how much they retained.
• Time management. Ask them about a time in their life when they were very busy and how they got through it.
• Empathetic. Ask the interviewee about a time they saw someone hurting and how they reacted.
• Attentive. Gauge how attentive they are at the interview.
• Patient. Ask them to wait a little bit before or during the interview.
• Curious. Ask them if they have any questions for you about the company. Gauge their natural curiosity.

Hiring the right people gets you off on the right foot. After hiring customer service-oriented people, training will further define their natural skills. 

Customer Service Excellence: Training

Training creates more knowledgeable and skilled team members. 

The more trained and knowledgeable your team members are, the happier your customers will be. Happier customers are more likely to create word-of-mouth advertising, which is the most effective form of advertising: 5 times more powerful than paid ads. 

Training and development can take on various forms. 

• Hire a trainer. Find a professional who excels in teaching customer service skills. Pay them to come to talk to your team members.
• Do it yourself. Research ways your company can improve customer service. Ask your customers what they’d like to see. Share your findings with your team members at a meeting.
• Online courses. Direct, or if it’s in the budget, subsidize your employees to take online courses to help them improve their customer service.
• Mentor-mentee programs. Pair a more experienced staff member with a less experienced one. Have them get together to share information and tactics that have helped them.

Whichever route you choose, you’ll see the benefits pay off in higher customer satisfaction and improved customer relationships.  

Customer Service Excellence: Customer Relationships

Encourage employees to develop positive customer relationships. 

Keep it natural. Try asking customers questions about themselves. Some just want to get in and out. But others enjoy talking and will appreciate the opportunity. If you remember the customers’ names and the stories they tell, they’ll be happier and more loyal. 

Further, increase customer relationships by sending customers birthday gifts or cards. Companies that prioritize emotional connections with customers do better in the long run, outperforming their competitors in sales by 85%. 

Customer Service Excellence: Let Customers Help Themselves

71% of consumers reported wanting to solve customer service issues independently. 

Counterintuitively, some of the best customer services you can provide are the gifts of not needing customer service. By providing efficient, straightforward methods for customers to solve their own issues, the customers leave happy. 

There are a couple of ways to accomplish this. 

• Q&A page with answers to the most commonly asked questions.
• Information. By providing relevant information in a convenient place, such as a brochure, you can proactively prevent frustrated customers by providing all the information they need beforehand. 

Customer service is one way your business can stand above the rest. If you do it well, profits will increase. 

We know customer service can be tricky because of the wide range of inquiries and emotions. However, we’re here to help you with our excellent printing services. For example, we've got you if you need promotional products for a birthday gift, birthday cards, or informative brochures!