If you are a business owner, there is no doubt that you would like to spread the word about your business. Even though most new entrepreneurs try to focus on advertising methods that utilize technology such as the Internet and radio, traditional advertising methods are as effective as they were decades ago.

One of the most effective advertising methods is direct marketing. This can come in many forms such distributing flyers, brochures and other promotional material within a small geographical area. The advantage of this method is, because of the small distribution area, the advertisers can target specific psychological and emotional needs in that specific area. Therefore it is very effective.

Spreading word-of-mouth is probably the most effective and least expensive marketing method of all time. It relies on delivering services that exceeds customer expectations, so that they tell about it for others. Even though the advertisers have very little control over this, there are ways to influence what the customers say about you. The best place to start is to delight the customers when you offer your product or service. However, inevitably it is not possible to do this accurately 100% of the time.

Another way to influence word-of-mouth is how you respond to customer complaints. The most effective entrepreneurs understand that customer complaints are a part of the business and it is an opportunity to understand them better and to improve their service. When the after-sales product service delights customers, they will tell others about the quality of your product or service.

This is a guest article by Roger Spence of Airless Spray Gun

Aesthetics has become vital element in packaging. Gone are the days where you just stuffed your product in a plain old box or plastic cover. Packaging has risen into an important aspect in making your product more sellable.

Subconsciously or consciously most consumers also judge and decide on a product by its packaging. Attractive and creative packaging gives your product perceived added value. Consequently, eye catching packaging helps in your marketing efforts. Here are more reasons why packaging could be a worthy investment:-

• Aids in brand identification and recognition;
• Helps your product and brand name stand out;
• It is a form of advertising in itself;
• Instills brand recall;
• Innovative packaging appeals to the creative in individuals;
• The consumer will more likely pick up your product on an isle;
• Gives consumers that extra nudge to purchase your product over others, i.e as a gift for family and friends. This is especially true during festive and holiday seasons.

So, get the juices flowing for packaging ideas – Packaging Design Inspiration.

Image Credits: Talia Cohen

But seriously, with so many flyers and brochures out there, how do you stand out? For one (or 3), they need to be readable, intriguing and functional. Also, they have to look professional in terms of design, text and print quality. Here are some of tips to help you do just that.

1. Copy or Text is the Key

Good copy or text is essential to selling. Coupled with a killer headline, the body copy has compelling and easy to read. However, you may want to consider a good copywriter to get it done for you, so you have a professionally written advertising copy.

2. Type Issues

Typography should be relevant and thought out. Bold type speaks strongly whereas italics give a sense of urgency. Some are serious while others are playful. Type is so strong that it can make or break a flyer or brochure. So decide on the type according to your the message you intend to send.

3. Picture This

If you don’t need pictures to articulate a message, do without them. Most of the time people are prone to using many pictures in a brochure or flyer without realising they’re clouding the message, thus making it ineffective. If the need be, use only a picture or two as a means to complement the text.

4. Colour Matters

If the brochure or flyer is for business, stay in tune with your corporate colour. This will help keep an overall brand image in tact, as well as strengthen the brand. If it is not a corporate brochure, you could use a colour wheel to assess which colours are in harmony and use those colours. Keep in mind the colour of the text plays a role too. Ensure it’s not glaring and is easy on the eyes.

5.The Right Printer

Now, that you have the layout of your flyer or brochure, it’s time to print. Here comes the point of contention – your good ol’ home printer vs an online printing service. For one, with a printing service you get professional looking results, in terms of colour brilliance and paper quality. Besides, you are able to do away with the headaches of ink running low, paper jam, colour inconsistencies and more importantly the time wasted in resolving these issues when using a home printer.

With this ammo in hand, you can now create persuasive brochures and flyers like you always wanted.

The debate still continues on just how relevant hard copy business cards are in today’s IT savvy world. Believe it or not, they still matter a whole lot!

In the business sphere, business cards still remain the very first network vehicle to jump start your business!

Imagine this scenario; you meet someone, the person is interested in your services – a potential client –
but is in a hurry, no time for a chat. What do you do? Pull out your business card and ask for the person’s one too, of course!

As a matter of fact, everyone you meet is a potential customer. By giving out your business card, your services are very much likely to stay in their memory. Consequently, you may be the first person they contact when in need of a service such as yours.

Just the other day, I was having problems with my car’s air-conditioning and wanted to get it checked. As I was thinking, where should I head to, I remembered this guy giving me his business card with this particular service. There’s no guess there what I did next.

This just proves, a business card has the Midas touch. So do business cards create more business? Well, the answer is clear, isn’t?

PS: Any thoughts on this subject? Share by leaving your comments below. Cheers!