Breathing New Life into Business Cards

Office supply chain stores in the U.S. are vigorously advertising their business card printing programs.

I’m guessing that the profit on business cards is low, but the item is a basic staple for any marketer, solo or staffed, and luring customers into the store for that particular product is sure to boost sales in other categories.

Still, it’s great that these chains are breathing life into the mini billboards we distribute in order to connect with like-minded people, prospects, and clients.

Business card printing has moved passed the heavy duty, rectangular-shaped paper with which we’re familiar. That basic type of card is still popular, but now you can order cards:

  • Made from wood
  • Created with an aluminized product
  • Shaped with rounded edges rather than 90-degree corners

    • Most of all, distributing business cards is still an inexpensive method to start or re-ignite a marketing campaign.

    Read more about business card selection and distribution here. Then decide if it’s time to order a new batch for yourself.

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    September 24, 2007 | Filed Under Customer Connections, Marketing News, Solo Housekeeping | Leave a Comment 

    CamStudio Gives Customers a Closeup View

    Throughout September, Lynn Chandler of TechBasedMarketing.com has been sharing, through her online newsletter, information about and links to her favorite marketing programs.

    One item that’s quite favorable is CamStudio’s streaming video software. Lynn uses this product very effectively in places where she explains how to do whatever’s shown in her video clips.

    I’ve often wondered what program she uses to give us an “over the shoulder” look at her computer. Now we all know.

    CamStudio provides installation instructions and other details on its site. Bookmark this tech tool for consideration as part of your promotional arsenal.

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    September 21, 2007 | Filed Under Technology, Video Tips | Leave a Comment 

    Expert Quotes Reveal Your Target Audience

    One of my daily habits is reading articles to learn something new and different about my target market. What these articles also reveal are the names of movers and shakers who are in position to do business with you. Here’s an example.

    DM News features an article about Commerce Bank’s successful two-year run of sending branded tissue packs stuffed with $20-$25 coupons to prospects in hopes that they open checking accounts linked with direct deposit. I featured another marketing idea from Commerce Bank early last year.

    The article’s third paragraph includes the holy grail for every astute business owner who wants to increase his banking client roster.

    “The tissue pack is a unique medium,” says Ron Mendoza, vice president of merchandise at Commerce Bank, headquartered in Cherry Hill, NJ. “It’s the favorite items in all our blitzing efforts.”

    Most articles include these quotes, revealing all you need to begin a new persuit. What you do after finding names is up to you, but most of all, you must take action.

  • Make contact by letter.

  • Use your industry contacts to learn which events the targeted executive will attend so that you can also attend.

  • Call the person directly to pitch your product or service.

    • That’s a short list of options. Do you have a better choice in your marketing arsenal? Then select it and move forward to gain the account.

    Starting now, read to learn and also to find new marketing contacts. Or has that been part of your long-term agenda?

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    September 20, 2007 | Filed Under Customer Connections, Offline Ideas | Leave a Comment 

    Article Reprints Produce Awesome Results

    Just when the seasons are about to change, the summer issue of Corporate Choices arrives yesterday in my mailbox. Corporate Choices is a corporate housing directory that lists locations where executives are relocated on a temporary basis.

    I’m surprised that the magazine has arrived late but am glad to read, “10 Flying Tips,” one of the magazine’s cover articles. James Wysong, the author and long-time flight attendent, delivers both a serious and whimsical tone to spare corporate travelers unnecessary stress before and during flights.

    “2. Electronic check-in. Some flights are eligible for online check-in. By avoiding the check-in mess, you can go directly to the security mess.”

    What I appreciate about this article is how it benefits anyone who services the travel industry. Article reprints can be provided to your clients with a statement that says, “Courtesy of (your company name).” That’s easier than writing articles when it’s not your expertise. Best of all, your clients will be grateful for 10 smart tips written by an industry professional.

    When writing is not for you, order reprints of easy-to-read articles that market your business as one that cares about their well being.

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    September 19, 2007 | Filed Under Customer Connections, Offline Ideas | Leave a Comment 

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