So you’ve started a business…

You are probably already aware that you’re supposed to have a logo designed once you decide on your business name. A logo is pretty much a given – but there are many other marketing materials you should consider to try to help your business establish its image.

Here are a few other marketing materials you should think about investing in.

A Website
You can’t avoid it. Your competitors have a website. People these days look to the internet first to find a product or service. If you do not have a web presence, you are really at a huge disadvantage.

There are websites and there are websites. You don’t need to spend $20k having a website designed and developed if you’re a small business. Websites range from basic “brochure style” informational sites right through to fully customised content management systems featuring databases, linked to your accounts software etc. Regardless of your budget, there is an option for you, and you need to take it. The alternative is spending thousands on press advertisements. It doesn’t work.

Brochures
It’s always helpful to have something tangible to mail to prospective customers or hand out in person. A good brochure will outline your services, has contact information and a bit of background information about your business. It should answer all the common questions a customer might have.

Business Stationery
Business cards, letterheads, with compliment slips and envelopes. These are absolute must-haves for any business who wants to be taken seriously. Having them professionally designed and printed makes all the difference. If it appears as though you have designed and printed your own stationery, it gives the message that you are not willing to invest anything in you own business – so why would your customers?

Signage
If you have a shopfront, you need signage. There’s no way around it. Not only to make it easier for your customers to find your store once they already know you exist, but also for recognition next time they need something that you sell. Once again, if you skimp on the signage, you will look unprofessional and may appear as though you’re going to shut up shop any day and leave town. A temporary feel is the worst possible result you want to achieve with your branding/marketing.

Direct Mail & Press Advertisements
Not as effective as a good web presence, but direct mail can still be a good investment if properly executed. It puts you in front of potential customers’ faces at the times of your choice. They don’t need to be searching for you first. Quite often direct mail or a good press ad is the best way to market a sale or special offer. A lot of people still love browsing through catalogues searching for a good deal. Direct mail also works well if you are targeting local businesses. Knowing that your business is only down the road can make a customer choose you over a competitor.

If you need any help with any of these materials – that’s what I do. I am a design and marketing specialist and I can give your business a huge advantage over your competitors, so contact me today.