Marketing Materials
Promotional Materials.
If you own a small business, then you understand that promotion is a 24/7 activity. You just can't afford to utilize all of your entrepreneurial resources and not advance your business at any and every opportunity you get.
The minimum outfitting
There are, however, some minimum requirements for successful promotion. These include the following:
- The business card. Not just with your name and contact info but a short tag line or description of what your business does.
- The sound bite. When someone asks you what you do, you need to have a prepared (and rehearsed) message that is short, succinct, and promotional to offer in response.
- The signature panel. It's what is underneath your name on stationery and email. Like your business card it needs to say more than your title.
- A price list. Even if you perform work on a time and materials basis you need a printed (or PDF) price list that you can deploy for interested prospects. Ultimately, your price list is your offer.
- A Factsheet. Some call this a "datasheet". A factsheet is a simple summary description of your services or products. It explains the features and benefits of your offerings and a little about your company.
- Signage. If you have a retail business, signs are essential. The signs you need will range from your company name and special offers, down to 'hours of operation' and 'price tags'. All signage in a retail firm must be carefully coordinated to ensure a consistent consumer impressions.
Doesn't have to be expensive.
The minimum promotional outfitting doesn't have to be expensive. The sound bite, the signature panel, and the price list are free. The fact sheet, signage, and business cards can often be produced inexpensively at the local copy shop or with the help of a local graphic designer
When you're ready to spend more...
...a website would be next. It's almost, but not quite, an essential piece of your entrepreneurial resources.
