Full Vehicle Wraps are great, they can be eye catching and have graphics that make your vehicle look amazing.  Are they the right option for you?

If you've got the right design and the right budget and you plan to keep the vehicle for a while, this would be a good option for you. Vehicle wraps can run from about $2500 and up depending on the size of the vehicle.
This may not be the right option if your going to be changing the vehicle soon. When it comes to selling your vehicle (or lease return) keep in mind the cost of removing the wrap, even if you choose to remove it your self its no easy task.  Being it that we are in Vancouver its even harder to remove the wraps as its only warm for a couple of months (hot weather helps to remove vinyl).

In my opinion, most of the time Decals are the way to go.  They are less costly, you can get decals starting at $120 installed. They are easy to remove if you need to change your info (like change of a website or email address).  Most decals jobs will only run about $360 and gets you graphics on three sides (Back, driver side and passenger side).

In a lot of cases full wraps can be made more effective just using decals.  Messages can sometimes be lost on a full wrap, even though the overall wrap might look really cool.  Usually Decals are eye catching and easy to read, all you need is an eye catching design.

At the end of the day both options are great as long as they do what you want them to do (that is usually to get you more customers), it more depends on each person circumstance.

Trade show booths are similar to businesses competing for foot traffic. These displays need to be purposefully designed in order to achieve the highest ROI possible. To get the most from a trade show booth, there are a few things companies should consider before finalizing a plan.


Be unique
Just as there are a lot of other companies in every industry, there are a lot of other booths at every trade show. Successful businesses thrive because they are unique. From offering a product or service that no one else offers to outperforming the competition, companies strive to be different. Trade show booths should accurately reflect a company’s brand. MultiView has been an exhibitor at the ASAE conference for the past several years, often prepared to draw attendees into their booth with unique displays. Among the unique booths are two that stand out in particular: a haunted house and a Ping-Pong match between two professional players. These booths attracted large crowds and always made an impression.

Be interactive
Trade show attendees enjoy interactive booths. These types of booths fill potential clients’ needs to touch and interact with everything. At a minimum, this type of booth gives the company an opportunity to sell their products during the interaction.

Utilize social media
Many trade show attendees carry smartphones around everywhere they go and are often involved on some form of social media. With this technology so easily accessible, it would be easy to partner with other companies at the show and host a scavenger hunt while posting their findings on social media under a specified hashtag. Everyone who completes the scavenger hunt could be entered into a raffle to win gifts from the participating booths. This would facilitate relationship building with potential clients by connecting the sales reps with trade show attendees over social media.

Pass out useful merchandise
Everyone has taken home enough stress balls and key chains. Passing out useful merchandise like bottles of water with the company logo or sunglasses will impress the attendees while they proudly display your brand everywhere they go. MultiView hosts the ASAE party every year and passes out goody bags with much needed items for the following morning, like Advil, Pepto-Bismol, sunglasses, and a Five Hour Energy.

Location, location, location
Finally, don’t skimp on picking a booth location. It is important to stay near high-traffic areas. If a company cannot afford a large area, securing a location directly next to a big company will help drive traffic. Focus on staying close to complimenting businesses so trade show attendees are interested in seeing both booths.


Check out the original post here

I found this article on WikiHow that provided a marketing tool that is so simple yet so Powerful, I think that this is a must for all business large and small.

Read the original article on WikiHow

Postcard printing is one of the most effective, yet inexpensive ways to advertise your company or organization. For less than $99, you can promote your services and products to thousands of prospects, who may eventually become your customers. Creating a postcard is easier than you may think. You can use software that you might already have in your computer, such as Microsoft Power Publisher, Microsoft Word or Publisher. You can also use Google Docs ( docs.google.com ) to create a presentation file that can also be converted to a commercial press-ready file. The easiest way is to contact a printing company specialized in postcard printing and create your design using the online tools that they provide on their websites. This makes the design and ordering process a snap.



STEPS


1
Design the front of your postcard. You want to keep the front of your postcard as clean as possible. One or two eye catchy pictures along with a short paragraph will get people’s attention. Use big and bold letters to display the product or service you are promoting. Remember not to clutter the front side of your postcard with too much information.

2
Design the back of your postcard. All the important details of the product or service you are promoting should go in the back of your card. Pricing, location, phone numbers, website, etc. should be in the back. If you are mailing this piece, do not forget to leave the right half of the back of your card blank to put the recipient’s address.

3
Track results. Just as if you were running a TV or radio spot, you must track the results of your postcard marketing so you know what your return on investment is. There are a few tricks to track results. You can place a coupon in the back of your card. Some ideas are: • “15% off your next order with this card!” • “Bring this card to the store before May 15th a receive a 10% discount”, • “Receive 10% off your next purchase (new customers only)” You can also create a custom URL on your website and install add Google analytics so you know how many clicks the postcards are generating. Check the new visitors to that specific URL often to get an idea of how the postcards are working.

4
Begin mailing. If your printing company is mailing out the postcards for you, you should have a database with your recipients. Your printing company will ask you to provide them that database in either XLS or CSV Microsoft Excel formats. Most CRM’s such as Microsoft Outlook, Zoho, etc. have the export feature that will create the appropriate format for you. If you do not have a database, you may consider services such as InfoUSA.com and SalesGenie.com to get a custom prospect database. If you are mailing out the postcards yourself, make sure to have your mailing list ready before your postcards are ready. You can work on printing labels using Microsoft Outlook and Microsoft Office to merge your contacts and print out your mailing labels.

5
Distribute. If you are distributing your postcards door to door, make sure to contact your town’s office to make sure you don’t need any special permit to do street distribution.

The original Article can be found here by Mike Boyd

Ideas to Grow - Dialogue vs Monolgue


I don't think that there is an owner of a small business, anywhere,  that hasn't  dreamed of more customers and a big advertising budget to make that happen. 

Be careful what you wish for.
For a small business that could do you more harm than good.
I say that based on what I have learned from
Jay Conrad Levinson, the father of Guerrilla Marketing. 

One of his many good theories is.... running a small business is completely different from the job of running a corporation.

Advertising done by large corporations is driven by money, while the marketing done by small business is driven, not by money (most of us don't have those kind of bucks) but by time, energy and creativity. 

Large corporations like Coca Cola, McDonald's and Microsoft advertise in the manner that they do because - their only option for communicating with their customers is a monologue. They spend millions of dollars to deliver their message, all the while hopingthat you are listening and hoping that you like what you hear.

Levinson often speaks in his presentations about the 20 ways that Guerrilla Marketing differs from traditional marketing. And, uses those differences to build a case for the idea that Guerrilla Marketing is a better approach for small business.

One of my favorite points from that list, is the idea that small businesses have the advantage of a dialogue. You have the ability to start, and maintain, a conversation with most, if not each, of their customers.

If you marry that with the idea that visibility + credibility = profitability (BNI 's VCP Process) you have a powerful formula for success that is unique to small business.

The  dialogues,  that we can and do have with every customer, is an opportunity to build credibility.

That dialogue takes many forms in small business -  

• All those questions that customers ask are an opportunity for a dialogue -  an inquiry for pricing, an request for a quote, product availability, product features or the need for a rush delivery.
• The opinions your customers share, even their complaints, are an opportunity to start a dialogue.
• The praise your customer offers at the end of successful sale, opens the door to a request for a referral, the chance to start a new dialogue with another customer.
• A customer returning for repeat business is asking for another dialogue. I bet because they enjoyed the 1st one. 

There are also a number of tactics that you, the business owner, can use to invite a dialogue -

• Signage - building or vehicle
• Logo'd wearables - you and your employees
• Business cards
• Seasonal products
• Promotional Giveaways 
• Sales or discounts 
• Newsletters, Blogs, Facebook or Twitter
• Thanks you notes
• Requests for referrals.  

Once started, a dialogue that will allow you, build credibility by what you say and how you act. 
I know that you have all heard - "it is human nature to do business with people you know, like and trust" .... it's the dialogue you create with your customers that will build that relationship.

The relationship that dialogue creates will lead to this sale and if well maintained will lead to future sales too.

So I say, good luck to you Coke, McDonald's and Microsoft .... too bad all you have is big bucks and a monologue. 

We have the power of dialogue and are using that to build relationships with customers.  

Tools are always important in anything that you do, and tools for business is no different. I came across this list of the most basic tools that are a must for every business owner.  These are just an initial set of tools, you will need to acquire a whole lot more once you have you foundation ready.


If you’re armed with the marketing essentials you can’t help but succeed in attracting new prospects and bringing in more business. Spend some time on getting your marketing tool kit in place and be prepared at all times.

Here are a few items to pack into your marketing toolkit:

• A plan and a budget: Getting a plan that will support you for years to come is essential to keep you on track. It doesn’t need to be as thick as War and Peace, but it does need to be written down, clearly communicated to your team and acted on day by day — even when business is booming.
  
  
• A great product or service: Advertising your business has no point if the customers don’t want, value or love what you have to offer. Make sure you do your research and listen to your customers before sending your product out to the market.
  
  
• A professional brand: A brand is much more than a logo. It encompasses everything people see, hear, think and feel about your business. Invest up-front in developing a brand that stands out from the crowd. It’ll save you money and heartache in the long run.
  
  
• Powerful marketing materials: Your business card, sales brochures, sales letters, website, signage, uniforms and car decal speak volumes about your business. Make sure they look professional and appealing at all times.
  
  
• An elevator pitch: In the course of marketing your business you’ll get asked thousands of times ‘What do you do?’ Don’t make the mistake of boring the poor person who asked the question. Make sure you have a fun, interesting and memorable pitch ready at all times — and be able to deliver it in the time it takes to travel a few floors in an elevator.
  
  
• A brilliant website: Your website must attract attention and give value to those who visit. Use it as a tool to retain and keep in touch with existing customers as well as for enticing new customers. The online world can be very scary to many small-business owners, but, if you don’t embrace it, you may find yourself out of business.
  
  
• A simple database: The backbone of all good marketing is about building a solid database of past, present and future customers (prospects) so you can keep in touch and communicate regularly via e-newsletters, emails and phone.
  

This post was originally found on how to for dummies.

Read the original article here

Adding custom embroidery to your company's uniforms can make your brand look more sophisticated, secure, and established. Embroidery can give your organization a higher perceived value, and companies that take the extra attention to make their uniforms refined, embody an air of good reputation and respectability.

Don't blend in with other businesses; make it a point to make your business stand out. Here are a few reasons how custom embroidery can help promote your business.

AdvertisementAn embroidered shirt is essentially a walking billboard. Instead of your employees wearing solid colored button down shirts or plain polos, consider the statement it would make to have your logo embroidered on the front of the shirt, or an applique on the back of the shirt. It really makes a statement.

It Looks ProfessionalAdd a one-of-a-kind custom touch with your custom embroidery. Logos look great when custom embroidered, and the quality of the embroidery will raise the bar on your employee's uniforms. It just looks classy to have that personalized embroidery on the shirts. So if you are interested in personalizing shirts, and you're torn between screen printing and custom embroidery, you can either try both or simply stick with the classic embroidery technique. If you're not sure about what fabrics or garments will look best when custom embroidered, ask an expert. 

It Differentiates You From Other BusinessesWhen you're promoting your business, it pays to be unique, so take that extra step to come up with a solid embroidered strategy. Embroidered aprons and hats are good examples of an all-over polished and professional look for your employees. The overall look can make your business look professional and refined.

You Can Create Your Own Logo or ThemeUsually custom created by expert digitizers, logos give your company the opportunity to be recognized and branded. There are a few ways to make your logos look more unique, such as using gradient embroidery or specialty thread. Customize your logo and give your brand the recognition it deserves.

It's Flexible You may think if you use custom embroidery, you'll be restricted to certain types of material. This isn't true at all. When you are using custom embroidery, you can choose between cotton, denim, track jackets, fleece sweatshirts and even aprons or hats. Certain types of embroidery work better on certain materials, so check with an expert when you're in the idea phase of your project.

You Can Personalize ItWith embroidered letters, you can add names to the front of your shirt so customers can be on a more personal first name basis with your employees. This can be great with customer service, while also helping make a good first impression with your customers. Whether a waiter, plumber or restaurant manager, it looks clean and respectable.

Plenty of ExpertsWhen you're choosing a custom embroiderer, think about what your needs are. Many decorated apparel manufacturers can provide you with many options, attentive customer service, and a quick turnaround. Decorated apparel manufacturers can offer many types of colors, lettering and fabric choices for your business's custom embroidered logo.  They can also handle any other promotional items you might need for your company; such as hats, jackets, bags or embroidered blankets.

Read the original post from TDG Marketing.

There are a number of major benefits of using promotional products as a marketing tactic. Research has indicated that 52% of people said their impression of a company is more positive after receiving a promotional product from them, and nearly 50% of those people use those promotional products daily. That means your brand is making an impression on 50% of your target audience daily, just from a promotional product they received. Here are some more reasons why promotional products are the right choice for your business:

1. Overall Increase in Brand Recognition

Brand awareness is often a goal for both large and small businesses. Promotional products allow your business to stand out from competitors while staying in the minds of your current and prospective customers, by providing unique and relevant products as a marketing tool. Promotional products are a simple, cost-effective tool to get creative with your marketing, while keeping your business top of mind.

2. Mass Outreach at Low Cost

When a budget comes into play, the primary goal is to get the most for your money. Promotional products have a small price tag but a huge, lasting impression on your target audience, making them a great value! Whether you’re looking to spread brand awareness or show your customers your appreciation, promotional products are a great way to increase brand loyalty.

3. Strategy

How can you keep your brand in front of current and prospective customers without constantly spending money? It’s easy! Just give them something they need. Things like pens, coffee mugs, baseball hats, and golf shirts are great giveaways because they are useful. If you’re in the golf business or if you host golf tournaments, give golf balls, golf tees, golf shirts, or hats away. If you’re in the restaurant, bar, or hospitality industry, things like a bottle opener or drink cooler are a great way to stay relevant to your industry while generating positive brand impressions.

4. Modern Business Card

While business cards will likely always be relevant, they won’t always be exciting. If it’s down to you and one other competitor company, why not ensure your company is the one that stands out? Offering a USB with an outline of your business along with a traditional business card is a great way to show that your company prides itself on being different than other businesses within the industry.  If a USB isn’t the most relevant product, hand out a business card with a promotional product that is! This shows your dedication to prospective customers and it also leaves them with a useful brand impression. 

Top 5 Rules for Effective Vehicle Wrap Design Originally published: 06.01.13 by Dan Antonelli
Original Article found here


A creative director's perspective on branding with fleet graphics


Using your vehicle(s) to help brand your company should be part of an overall marketing and branding effort, so that what ends up on your fleet is an extension of all the other marketing your company does. Accomplishing this takes more than just manual labor and the ability to print. It requires an understanding of proper branding and the application of the rules of effective advertising with an outdoor medium.

The following tips will help you realize the maximum impact and return on investment for your outdoor vehicle advertising programs.

Rule #1: Start with A Great Brand
For businesses trying to make an impact in their community the message is always about the brand, so unless you have national brand recognition, your brand should always be the primary message for a vehicle wrap. 
One reason so many wraps fail from a marketing perspective is because the business has a poor brand identity and logo. Starting with a poor brand means you’ve failed before you’ve begun: by wasting money on a wrap and missing a huge marketing opportunity.

Some sign companies won’t mention this because they don’t want to lose  business.

They’ll print whatever the customer wants. But it’s too much money to play with. A good graphic design company doesn’t want to be responsible for wasting your money by trying to work with a brand that has no business being implemented on a wrap. They will educate you on the challenges of your brand. And they will stress this simple point: the brand is the message, period.

Rule #2: Don’t Use Photos
I’ve had this discussion often with other sign makers and some disagree with me on this point. However, I believe there are few effective wraps that use photos, and I’d argue that any wrap that uses a photo could have been more effective without one. The photo is not a brand identity; it doesn’t connect the customer with the business name. Maybe it connects them with what the company does, but so should a good brand. 

Take the usual examples, like the HVAC contractor with a picture of an air conditioner. Great. I know you do air conditioning, but who are you? I don’t know, because I only have 2.5 seconds to view your message. Or consider the contractor and the picture of a house. Are you a siding company, a roofing company, a window installer, a power washer, a landscaper, an electrician? I have no idea because the photo is the dominant element. After my 2.5 seconds are up, your message is lost among all the other things trying to grab my attention.

Perhaps a photo can be used on box trucks or trailers, but I’d still argue a more powerful brand integration would be more effective. National chains have an easier time using photography because, once again, their brand is already known.

Rule #3: Limit Your Advertising Copy 
There are only three or four things a good wrap needs: strong brand implementation, perhaps tagline messaging, a web address, and maybe a phone number. Bullet lists, which look more like shopping lists, have no place on a vehicle. This isn’t the yellow pages. Would you rather list ten things and have none remembered, or convey one to two memorable takeaways? If this truck were a billboard, how much copy would be on it? Billboards have the exact same challenges as vehicle advertising. If you prioritize your copy, it will be more effective. In general, the hierarchy should always be: brand, tagline, web address and/or phone number.

Rule #4: Design to Stand Out, Not Fit In
This doesn’t mean diamond plate, carbon fiber and tribal flames will make your truck wrap stand out. Quite the contrary. By eliminating all those fills, noisy backgrounds, photos, bevels and glows, you’ll be on your way to having a vehicle that actually does stand out.

The wrap market is littered with visual noise. When people see something with impact — something they can actually read and remember — it can’t help but stand out among the visual clutter. That’s what is so ironic to me. People think our vehicle wrap designs are innovative simply because they are unlike what everyone else seems to be doing. So — they stand out.

Rule #5: Simple and Obvious is Good
If the viewer needs to work too hard to figure out the primary brand messaging, the opportunity for recognition is lost. The vehicle graphics medium isn’t the same as print design where the viewer can stop, absorb the advertising and try and understand the message. Identify the one primary takeaway you’re hoping to leave with the viewer. Your wrap should effectively communicate that takeaway. Without getting lost in imagery. You have very limited time to capture the viewer’s attention and have your brand be understood and remembered. Your message needs to be 100 percent focused on who you are and what your brand is.