8 Direct Mail Mistakes to Avoid

You know you need to do direct mail.

After all, it’s been proven to be effective in getting the word out about your business, and it’s economical. Not only that, but it’s trackable to some extent.

In fact, 71% of people say they read their direct mail, and 54% say it leads them to try a new business or product. However, you only have about 3 seconds to get people to entertain your direct mail.

So what do you need to know when getting these little treasures ready to mail? There are some common mistakes people make when creating their direct mail. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

8 Direct Mail Pitfalls to Avoid

Wrong Audience

When creating your direct mail, one mistake many people make is not writing it for the right audience.

You need to know who will be reading your direct mail and what they are looking for. Don’t write the copy as generic, meant for just anyone. Think about who you actually want to talk to through your letter, postcard, brochure, or other forms of direct mail. Then tailor it to the audience: men, women, certain ages or incomes, etc.

No Defined Goals

When creating a marketing campaign, you need to think about what you hope to accomplish.

Do you want to drive sales, have more people walk in your door, have more people go to your website, or other goals? You can’t accomplish everything, even if you really want to. You need to have specific goals that are somewhat measurable.

No White Space

We get excited about what we offer, but your audience needs the simplified version.

Don’t use too much text. Customers won’t read it because it looks daunting. Make sure you keep it short and sweet. Use active verbs and exciting adjectives, but choose words carefully.

No Call to Action

Yikes! You put all this effort into amazing direct mail, but you forget to ask customers to take the next step.

This is a setup for failure. We need to make sure we tell people what to do next. “Call us today!” “Stop in our store today!” “Check out our website.” There are so many ways to ask customers to take the next step.

Don’t assume they know what you want them to do. And don’t be afraid to ask for the sale or whatever you want them to do next. Just keep it simple. Only ask them to do one thing, and don’t overload them with requests.

It Focuses on Features

Even though you are interested in your accomplishments or where your business is going, your customers probably aren’t that interested.

They want value.

Tell them how you will make their lives easier and how your product helps them. Be results-oriented rather than features-oriented.  

Being Coupon Crazy

Direct mail coupons are great for repeat customers, but you don’t want to build a culture around saving a buck.

Focus on value more than saving money. Every once in a while, use a coupon, but don’t let this be your go-to.

Not Making It Personal

It’s so easy now to personalize direct mail.

Include their name, birthday, or anniversary. Choose colors and images that represent the demographics well. People tend to hang onto these types of direct mail and respond to them.

Saving the Best for Last

Unless you are a world-renowned company, you should lead with the logo and product. Don’t save it for the end of the ad or direct mail.

Start with what you can do for the customer, following up with details.

By avoiding these few mistakes that happen in direct mail, you can be sure to have a more successful campaign. We want to make sure you are successful. So we offer high-quality, beautiful direct mail that will represent your company well. Check us out today!  Call Today 516-561-1468 or FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ANY OF OUR MARKETING PRODUCTS GO TO:www.printcafeli.com

 How a Target Audience Can Save You Money

A target audience is the people who are most likely to buy your product or service and should therefore be the ones you target in your marketing campaigns.

Identifying and utilizing your target audience is extremely important because advertising to the wrong people is a waste of time and money.

After all, a little bit of advertising to the right people is often as productive as a lot of advertising to the wrong people. 

Finding Your Target Audience

Trying to pin down your target audience can be deceptively tricky and overwhelming. However, breaking it up into small categories can help ease the load. 

• Consider useful demographics. This includes age, gender, location, hobbies, interests, income, education level, profession, marital status, who they trust, what they read/watch, purchase intentions, subcultures, etc. Consider each of these aspects to determine where your ideal customer resides—the more specific, the better. Try creating 3-5 buyer personas with extremely specific target markets. This will help create more personalized and effective marketing campaigns. 
• The decision-maker vs. the supporter. Understanding the difference between the decision-maker and the supporter is key. The decision-maker is the one who ultimately buys the product or service. The supporter may not directly buy the product but heavily influences the purchase. For example, gift receivers and children reside in this category. Targeting both these demographics is useful, but it’s important to understand which one you’re reaching. 
• Research your current customer base. Usually, your target audience consists of people already buying from your business. Send out surveys and collect data on who are already your customers. Determining your competitor’s target market can also help determine your own. This will also give you insight into what your competitors are doing and what you can do to win over customers. Understanding your competitors is just as insightful as understanding your own business.

Reaching Your Target Market

Identifying your target audience is just the first step.

The next step is reaching them. This can be challenging, especially when not all people especially like being advertised to. 

Infer where your target audience receives advertisements.

Use various aspects of your target audience to determine the best way to reach them. For example, if you’ve determined your target audience prioritizes their health, perhaps the best way to reach them is through websites, magazines, and social media pages promoting health. 

Bring in third-party help.

Various third parties exist that can help you identify the best ways to reach your target audience effectively. For example, social media is quite adept at this. Many sites store user information for advertisement purposes, and businesses can then advertise through those sites to effectively reach their target audience. 

Timing is everything.

When it comes to getting the attention of your target audience, determining the best time to reach them is crucial. You’re going to want to reach them at a time when they’ll be most likely to see it. For example, if you’re trying to reach them over email, avoid weekends because many try to avoid their emails during this time. 

Determining your target audience saves your business money by helping you reach the people most receptive to your advertisements. However, target audiences aren’t everything. Don’t let it cloud your judgment and make you miss interested potential customers. Call Today 516-561-1468 or FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ANY OF OUR MARKETING PRODUCTS GO TO:www.printcafeli.com

      Resolving Conflict at the Office

It’s not ideal, and we don’t necessarily like to talk about it, but conflict does happen in the workplace.

So, as a leader, how do you handle it? Do you sweep it under the rug, or do you deal with it head-on?

Here are some tips on how to handle disagreements and conflicts at work.

Pay Attention to Your Tone of Voice

Experts say that only 10% of an argument is about the issue, and 90% is the tone of voice.

So, it is safe to say that how we react and talk about the conflict is critical to resolving it. Whether you’re mediating the conversation or you’re in the middle of the argument, remember that your tone of voice will impact the other person more than just your words.  

Don’t Ignore the Issue

According to experts, ignoring a problem is not the best way to handle the situation as it will only build more tension.

This can severely impact the productivity and energy of the group. In fact, we should embrace the difference of opinions in hopes that we might learn something new and expand our business.

Author and business leader Margaret Heffernan said, “For good ideas and true innovation, you need human interaction, conflict, argument, debate.” Keep this in mind, and your job will be much easier. Think of it as a way to expand your business and maybe gain some new ideas on how to do things.

There are Benefits with Conflict

According to Amy Gallo, contributing editor at Harvard Business Review, benefits of a conflict at work  include: “positive, creative friction that leads to better work outcomes; opportunities to learn and grow; higher job satisfaction; a more inclusive work environment, and even improved relationships.”

Thinking of these positive benefits of conflict while mediating or conversing with others should help you appreciate the different views rather than dreading the confrontation.

Do Your Homework

Before meeting with those involved, do your homework.

Listen carefully to what is being said before asking questions. If people feel heard, they will respect your input more. It also keeps emotions calm. Be sure to stay in control of your emotions so you can stay objective.

Ask For Clarification

Before reaching any conclusions in your mind, be sure to ask for clarification on the points that were made by each side.

Take notes so you can be specific in your questions. Also, try to use the question “how” rather than “why” someone feels the way they do. And when you do talk, try not to use “but” or “however” because that will make the others feel like they aren’t as valued and that their opinions don’t count.

Mind the Facts

Focus on the facts at hand, rather than getting distracted by extra information, observations, or feelings.

And watch your body language, as that will impact the conversation more than you might think. Uncross your arms, and keep good eye contact in a non-threatening way.

At our printing firm, we tackle things head-on. If you are not satisfied for any reason, we want to know, and we will make it right. We want you to be happy with our products because there’s no us without you. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ANY OF OUR MARKETING PRODUCTS GO TO:www.printcafeli.com

The Hidden Benefits of Promotional Calendars

Promotional calendars are an ingenious marketing tool to target loyal and prospective customers. 

The Benefits of Promotional Calendars

Promotional calendars utilize continuous, year-round advertising.

Even in today’s digital age, printed calendars are still widely used. According to PPAI, 78% of consumers still use a printed calendar at home or work.

Therefore, if you give a calendar, the customer will most likely use it. After all, it can’t get much better than a free calendar. This calendar will hang in the customer’s home or office where they and their coworkers and family members will also see it. The recipient is bound to refer to it at least once a day. This equals at least 365 views per calendar. That’s a lot of advertising power!

Promotional calendars are cost-effective.

Depending on where you go and what specific calendar you buy, a printed calendar will cost you roughly $2.00. That one calendar is likely to receive at least 365 views per year, translating to about half a cent per view. That’s some cost-effective marketing! 

Promotional calendars are recyclable.

The best way to show that you care about prevalent topics, such as the environment, is through action.

What better way to do this than by creating a recyclable product? Your impact on the environment will be lessened, and your customers will appreciate your efforts. 

Promotional calendar tips

Promotional calendars are incredibly effective but increase their potency with the following ideas. 

Add monthly specials and important business days to the calendar.

The customer is going to be referring to the calendar often. Take full advantage of this by reminding them about special deals and important business deals to increase sales and traffic. 

Feature customer stories.

Share some of the ways your business has helped individuals and the community by highlighting inspirational stories through your calendar. This will make the calendar more engaging while simultaneously generating trust between you and the customer. 

Personalize the calendar by adding the customer’s name.

Show your customers you genuinely care about them and their support by giving them a personalized calendar. This will make the client feel special. 

Include stickers with the calendar.

People of all ages enjoy stickers. Try including calendar-specific stickers, such as birthday, to-dos, laundry day, tax day, payday, etc. Look into creating customizable stickers so that your company can be advertised through them too. 

Try 18-month calendars.

This will help you get ahead of the curve by giving these out in June instead of December when most other businesses distribute their calendars. Once the customers start using your calendar, you can continue supplying as the years go on. 

Calendars are subtly powerful marketing strategies due to their usefulness and staying power. Soon, your customers will be asking you when your next calendar is coming out.  Call Today 516-561-1468 or FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ANY OF OUR MARKETING PRODUCTS GO TO:www.printcafeli.com

Empower Your Marketing Campaign with Engagement Marketing

Empower Your Marketing Campaign with Engagement Marketing

Engagement marketing places the customer at the center of the picture. According to Adobe, “Your most valuable asset isn’t your product – it’s your customers.” Engagement marketing incorporates personalization, one-on-one interactions, and a two-way relationship to create a marketing strategy the customer responds to positively. According to Adobe, “Engagement marketing is the use of strategic, resourceful content to engage people and create meaningful interactions over time.” The end goal is to create a long-term, reciprocal relationship with the customer.  Benefits of Engagement Marketing Engagement marketing more effectively reaches the customer. Customers are bombarded by marketing campaigns daily when, in general, people don’t like being sold to. Yet, customers still consume. Engagement marketing attempts to solve this problem by creating a strategy that customers appreciate and lean on.  Engagement marketing establishes greater trust. Customers trust companies that value their input and treat them as individuals. Trust is crucial for setting your business up for long-term success.  Engagement marketing translates to a greater Return on Investment (ROI). Think of how much money is wasted on marketing campaigns that fail to engage customers. Turning these sunk costs into interested customers will translate to more sales and profit.  Beginner’s Guide to Engagement Marketing There is no ‘one strategy fits all’ for effective engagement marketing, and every company’s strategy will look different. However, there are some key aspects that would benefit any business.  Personalization. Creating a personalized marketing approach is key—the more personalized, the better. You want the customer to feel valued and known by your company. To achieve this, create buyer personas, which are fictional representations of your ideal customer based on your current customers. The more detailed you are, the better because this leads to greater personalization. Include demographics, behavior, motivations, goals, etc. Once you have multiple buyer personas generated, you can target these groups through personalized advertising. In general, use the client’s name whenever possible.  Collect data. The more you know about your clientele, the more personalized your marketing strategies are. Plus, data can be used as a measurement for success, and it’ll help you make informed future decisions. Before collecting the data, make sure you have a solid idea of how you are measuring success.  Share stories. Customers love inspiring stories. They’re interesting and provide the human side of businesses to which customers can attach themselves. Perhaps share customer stories about how your business has helped them. Or share how your business is supporting important causes.  Brainstorm unique marketing campaigns. Engagement marketing requires creativity to find new ways to engage your customers. Perhaps try sending company calendars to existing and prospective customers. These are useful promotional products that will be used and seen all year, keeping your business at the forefront of their mind. Or try sending personalized cards. These will grab the customer’s attention and feel more personal than an email.  There are multiple other ways to practice effective engagement marketing, but hopefully, the above tips will provide a good foundation.  An example of effective engagement marketing: Spotify Spotify is a popular music streaming platform. Spotify’s extraordinary success can be partially attributed to its ability to personalize its customers’ musical experience. Spotify creates multiple daily mixes curated for the user based on their musical preferences. Spotify also suggests popular playlists similar to the user’s known preferences. All this introduces the listener to new music and keeps them coming back for more.  Perhaps one of Spotify’s most popular features is its Spotify Wrapped, where it analyzes the user’s listening preferences throughout the year and shares this data, which includes favorite songs and artists and preferred style of music. Spotify users look forward to their Spotify Wrapped and enjoy sharing it with their friends.  Engagement marketing is not a one size fits all option. This is what makes it so challenging to pull off, yet simultaneously effective when done well. Try it out to experience first-hand benefits. Call today to get started! 516-561-1468 or FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ANY OF OUR MARKETING PRODUCTS GO TO: www.printcafeli.com

 

Tips for Impossible-to-Ignore Brochures

                                                                                                                                                                     

Tips for Impossible-to-Ignore Brochures

         Time for a new brochure for your business? When was the last time you updated it? Maybe          you need to tweak a few things or need a complete overhaul.

Either way, here are some fresh ideas to make sure your brochure shines in the face of the competition. Let’s focus on a few items to make sure your brochure isn’t just standing around; it needs to be picked up and read.

Ditch the Building

First of all, remove that picture of your building from the front of the brochure. Although you’re proud of it, your building doesn’t draw people in as you think it might.

Pick photographs that are more eye-catching and appealing to the reader. Photos with people in them or the new product you offer make the best choices. You can reveal the newest, greatest product, or you can use a photo that shows the emotion of how they will feel when they use the product or your business.

Turn Heads with Headlines

Your headlines need to compel readers and make them open the brochure.

It usually takes someone about five seconds to decide to read a brochure or not. That’s not much time, so you need the cover to be the best it can be. 

Know your Audience

Figure out who your audience is and what you hope to accomplish with the brochure; in other words, find out your target market.

There is no way a brochure will be able to tell it all. But it should tell the things that are important to you and your company and essential to the customer. How will your business help them? Be sure to spell this out clearly.

Sell, Don’t Tell

Don’t waste words trying to tell the whole story of your business and why it’s in existence. You need to sell people why your business is the best choice for them.

Have you heard of AIDA?

AIDA is an acronym for Attention, Interest, Desire, and Action. This is the key to unlocking the mystery of how to write your brochure. You need to do all these things to make it a successful brochure. You want to lure them in and let them know how and why you can help them. And you need to make sure you tell them what you want them to do next: return a postcard, go to your website, call you, make an appointment, etc.

Writing

To start, make a list of all the reasons why someone would want to use your business. Use this list in writing the copy for the brochure. Do they want to use your product or services just because you offer them? No.

You need to tell them why you do it better than the competition and how your service is second to none. When doing this, be sure to use compelling headlines and bullet points, which will help move them along in reading your brochure. It needs to be relatable and easy to read. Focus on them, not you. For example, “You will be able to stay in touch with your loved ones easier…” rather than “You will have free long-distance.” Tell them why your company benefits them.

Images

Besides the writing, the image you portray in the brochure is important.

Many novice designers use too many colors and fonts and cram way too much into the brochure. You need white space. And you need to pick a font that looks right for your company image. This will show readers your professionalism.

Paper

Pick the right paper and fold.

There are different ways to design brochures, and it’s up to you to pick the right layout and orientation. The paper options are endless, so it is a great idea to talk with your printer to help you get the desired outcome. Do you want elegance? Do you want something fresh and cutting-edge? Do you want to look funky and fun? The right paper can help push your brochure in the right direction.

We are here to help you design and print the best brochure possible. Check us out today, and let’s get started!  516-561-1468 or FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ANY OF OUR MARKETING PRODUCTS GO TO:www.printcafeli.com

 

 

Small Business Tips: How to Decrease Turnover

After the Pandemic, more people are evaluating their lives, which includes their work environment. As an employer, how do you keep your people engaged and rewarded, so they want to stay?

Here are a few ideas on how to decrease turnover so you don’t waste money training people who won’t stay.

Hire the Right People

If your impressions of prospects tell you they won’t fit in, then don’t offer them the job or you will end up with issues.

When interviewing potential employees, ask them situational questions to know how they would react in particular instances. Give them a tour of the business, being sure to mention cultural items at the business. This way, if they don’t feel they fit in, they will eliminate themselves.  

Offer Flexibility

Let new hires (and all team members) come in at a flexible time or leave at a flexible time as long as they get the work done.

This flexibility allows them to attend their children’s school functions, which will help them maintain their work-life balance. Or maybe it’s as simple as letting them work at home or a coffee shop at their leisure.

Compensate Fairly

If a prospective job applicant or a current employee can go elsewhere and make more with better benefits, why would they not take that opportunity?

Be sure to give out raises and bonuses when you can. If employees receive regular raises and bonuses, they will feel appreciated and less likely to look for another work opportunity. Do your research, so you know what others are paying.

Verbally Praise Your Employees

If employees finish a large project or hand things in early, be sure to thank them and applaud them publicly.

Everyone wants to feel appreciated. This doesn’t mean praising everyday tasks. That would be counterproductive because people wouldn’t see this as genuine. But when they take on a large project or a difficult task, congratulate them.

Provide a Future

Show new hires that there is room for growth, whether a new title or salary.

Show them that you value them and want them to be engaged with their tasks. Sometimes people get bored with doing the same job all the time. Provide new challenges and projects that they can look forward to doing.

Even though the average turnover is 10% to 20%, you can help keep your employees with a little extra effort. By appreciating them, helping them succeed, and more, you will be sure that you are doing all you can. We do all we can to keep your business as well. Check us out today! Call today to get started! 516-561-1468 or FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ANY OF OUR MARKETING PRODUCTS GO TO: www.printcafeli.com

 

How to Stay Positive in a Negative World

Remaining positive when negative tension surrounds you is a skill worth mastering and sharing with others.

If you need a few ideas on how to create a positive outlook or cheer others up, here are some you’ll’ find helpful. 

Breathe.

Practice the 4-7-8 technique from Dr. Andrew Wile.

Try this breathing pattern: empty the lungs of air. Breathe in quietly through the nose for 4 seconds. Hold the breath for a count of 7 seconds. Exhale forcefully through the mouth, pursing the lips and making a “whoosh” sound for 8 seconds. Repeat the cycle up to 4 times.

Focus on positive things in your life.

“Living in gratitude” is known to support our physical, psychological, and social health.

It can produce stronger immune systems, better sleep, feeling more joy, and help you be less lonely.

Take a few minutes each day to write down what you are thankful for: a job, family, pet, warm house, nice clothes, friends, etc. Happy chemicals (dopamine and serotonin) are released when thinking of joyous moments. No matter what situation arises, focus on something good.

Create a go-to happy book.

When things are tough, have a Pinterest page, a journal of happy thoughts, a picture album of favorite times, or other ideas that are easy to access. Then when times are tough, go right to that item.

Create a blissful playlist.

Having a playlist ready to go will help elevate your mood at the press of a button. Use music, Ted Talks, comedy bits, bloopers, or animal videos as an easy mood lifter.

Write notes to yourself.

Put up notes with positive quotes to remind you to focus on the positive things. Remind yourself to forgive those who bring you down. This is a healthy release of the negative in order to allow the positive in.

Go outside and look around.

Enjoy soaking up the sun’s rays. Breathe in the fresh air, no matter what season it is. Go for a walk in a new place or an old favorite. Taking time out of the office and home will open up your mind to new perspectives.

Laugh.

Studies have found that laughter lowers stress, anxiety, and depression.

It also improves coping skills, mood, and self-esteem. Watch a favorite comedian or call up a friend who makes you laugh.

Spend time with positive people.

It rubs off on us. Both negativity and positivity are contagious. Schedule time with those positive people so that you can encourage each other to stay positive.

Identify areas of negativity.

If you’re not sure when you are most negative, ask a coworker, friend, or relative.

Then attack your negativity with something positive.

If you are in a bad mood when you drive, try to change your self-talk while driving. Or, if you are negative at work, work on focusing on the positive items at work.

Give yourself time.

Changing your mental state isn’t as easy as it sounds. It takes dedication and work. It’s a focus that might not be natural to you. Be gentle with yourself. Take time to change by starting with one thing at a time.

No matter what area you are focusing on, we can help you have a positive printing experience. We promise to be on time, professional, and help you create beautiful marketing pieces. 

Call today to get started! 516-561-1468 or FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ANY OF OUR MARKETING PRODUCTS GO TO: www.printcafeli.com

       Developing A Competitive Edge

Competitive advantages are the factors that allow your company to produce goods or services better or more cheaply than your rivals and are the key factors in what makes your business better than others. If your competitive advantage can be easily copied or imitated, it is not considered a competitive advantage. Your competitive advantage is the essence of your strategy, messaging, and marketing. According to Jack Welch, “If you don’t have a competitive advantage, don’t compete.” Comparative Advantage vs. Differential Advantage  Comparative advantages and differential advantages are the two different forms of competitive advantages. A comparative advantage is your company’s ability to produce something more efficiently, leading to greater profit margins. One way to achieve a comparative advantage is to increase your economies of scale. An economy of scale is the savings in costs your company generates when it increases levels of production. Greater production leads to lower production costs because it more evenly distributes the fixed costs. A differential advantage is your company’s ability to produce unique products or of higher quality than your rivals. Examples of a differential advantage include advanced technology, patent-protected products or processes, superior personnel, and a strong brand identity. High-end brands, such as Louis Vuitton, utilize a differential advantage. Their high quality and uniqueness allow them to charge much for their products.  Economic Moats Warren Buffet described sustainable competitive advantages like a moat. The image is that your company is like a castle, and your competitive advantage is the moat surrounding the castle. The better your competitive advantage, the greater the moat. A large moat makes it nearly impossible for other castles (businesses) to attack your castle (company). This illustration provides an excellent analogy for what a sustainable competitive advantage can do for your business.  You can create your own moat by strengthening your brand, raising barriers to new entrants through tactics such as regulations, and defending your intellectual property through patents.  How to Create a Competitive Advantage Competitive advantages are imperative to the success of your business. A competitive advantage technique can be found in many areas. 1. Find a focus area Trying to be great in everything often results in excellence in nothing. Therefore, most businesses find it best to hone in on a focus area. This is a market niche in which your company can excel.  2. Employ the best talent Your employees will determine the success of your business. Therefore, employing passionate, talented people is imperative. Search for talent and reach out. It’s better to wait for the right person than hire the wrong one.  3. Utilize rewards Incorporate rewards into your business. You’re going to need to incentivize your employees to go above and beyond their call of duty by rewarding high performance. Examples of rewards include money or vacations.  4. Foster experience Now that you have amazing employees incentivized through rewards, the next goal is to keep them wanting to work for your business for years to come. The greater experience your employees have, the better your business’s customer service. Avoid a high employee turnover rate by making your work environment a place your employees will want to stay for years to come.  5. Speed Customers care about speed. The faster and easier it is to buy from you or use your services, the better. Look throughout your process to find ways to cut down on time and make it easier for your customers.  Dominate 2022 by establishing an effective competitive advantage! Contact us today to get started! 516-561-1468 or FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ANY OF OUR MARKETING PRODUCTS GO TO: www.printcafeli.com

 

 

 

 

 

How to Stay Healthy When You're Stressed

The new year is a terrific time to focus on your health.

One of the greatest overall benefits to your health is eliminating or reducing your stress. Here are some tips on how to stay healthy when you’re stressed out.

1. Get regular exercise.

This sounds simple enough, yet most of us struggle with it.

Exercise can include parking farther away so you have a longer walk to work or the mall. It can involve swimming, playing basketball with a friend, and even window shopping at the mall. Just find ways to move around more and things you enjoy.

2. Keep a sense of humor.

Try to relax enough to laugh.

Read a joke book. Read a funny book or watch a funny TV show or movie. Have lunch with a friend who lightens the mood.

3. Try some relaxation techniques.

Meditation, deep breathing, yoga, tai chi, or even getting a massage are great makes to stop awhile and take care of yourself. This is the best way to stay on top of your game.

4. Take time for hobbies.

Think about what you love to do: golf, swim, read, craft, paint, hike, listen to music, etc. Then add it to your calendar.

Schedule it in so you are sure to do it. It is not a waste of time; it’s necessary for your health.

5. Spend time with family and friends.

Take time for lunch, dinner, or coffee with others. This is an important part of staying healthy.

6. Get organized.

Take time to organize your stressors. This can instantly relieve stress.

When we try to do too much, it can put an unnecessary stress on our bodies. Write out a budget if you’re worried about money—schedule tasks with enough time to accomplish them rather than rushing to get them done in record time.

7. Get outside in nature.

Sometimes we need to disconnect from the Internet, email, social media and TV.

Being in nature can re-set our clocks and give us new perspectives on life. Go for a walk, a bike ride, a canoe ride, or just sit in a park and observe nature at its finest.

8. Get enough sleep and rest.

Did you know that sleep and stress are directly linked?

The CDC has said that the lack of sleep is an epidemic right now. A lack of sleep leads to elevated levels of cortisol in the blood, which leads to weight gain and brain fog. Try to go to bed at the same time every night.

9. Journal about your life and stress.

Write down all the things that come to mind. It doesn’t have to be organized or even well constructed. Just write. Free write so your mind can catch up with itself.

If you’re experiencing stress related to your marketing materials, we can help. We offer organized, high-quality printing that will take the pressure off of you.  Contact us today to get started! 516-561-1468 or FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ANY OF OUR MARKETING PRODUCTS GO TO: www.printcafeli.com

 

Is Die Cutting for Me?

You know how a new haircut can change the way people see you? It can make all the difference in your level of professionalism.

And die-cutting can do the same for your marketing materials.

With die-cutting, the possibilities are as endless as your imagination. With fresh, new die-cut marketing materials, the public will definitely take notice.

What is Die-Cutting?

It is a cut using a sharp steel blade that is formed into any specific shape you want.

It is then used to cut through the paper. It’s a lot like a cookie-cutter, except you cut paper instead of dough.

Just think what you could do for your dull, old marketing materials. It’s not just circles and squares. Die-cutting allows you to make stair steps, holes, rounded corners, sharp points, and much more. Make any point you want with fresh, new die-cut materials.

Creative Uses with Die-Cutting

You have probably thought about using die-cutting on your business cards to make them stand out in the pile of rectangles. But have you thought about using this technique on door hangers, postcards, brochures, and presentation materials?

The options are out there. It’s up to your dreams as to what you’d like us to accomplish for you.

Would you like your logo to stand out? We can do that. Or what about an image associated with your type of business?

Let’s say you are an architect, a real estate agent, or a builder. You could use a roof die-cut or a house. Or, if you own a restaurant, let’s create a basil leaf, a loaf of bread, a bowl of pasta, or whatever suits you. Or maybe you own a pet shop or dog training business in which we could cut out the shape of a dog.

No matter what item you choose to die-cut, it will freshen up your marketing materials and help draw attention to the most important aspects of your business as you see fit.

Need ideas? We’re here to help. Our die-cutting is top-notch and will serve your purpose of standing out in a crowd. Contact us today to get started! 516-561-1468 or FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ANY OF OUR MARKETING PRODUCTS GO TO: www.printcafeli.com

 

         Psychology Techniques to Drive Sales for Your Business

 

Knowing how the human brain works and what drives people to make decisions is immensely beneficial in marketing.

Luckily, there’s much research and information regarding various psychological tips and tricks to drive sales and expand your business. Here are a few.

Cut down on the options

Sometimes too many decisions can cause a customer to shut down, resulting in no sales. 

To avoid this, research your prospective client beforehand to determine what products or services would best suit their needs. When doing the sales pitch, focus on only these to cut down on the options. Even better, you can lump products into packages, so your prospect needs only to make one big purchasing decision instead of multiple small ones. 

No matter what you ultimately pitch to your client, it’s imperative you do so with the correct framing techniques. 

Utilize positive framing

Framing is how the information is presented. 

Positive framing increases sales. Therefore, try to sell your product or service in a positive light by homing in on the benefits. 

However, feelings other than positive ones can be beneficial if framed correctly. 

Fead your prospect’s fear of missing out (FOMO)

People are much more likely to act when they feel if they’re afraid of missing out on a great opportunity. 

Creating the sense of scarcity is an effective way to fuel FOMO within your prospect.  After all, the more rare something appears, the greater in value it becomes. Scarcity also presents a time limit for them to act, prompting them to buy soon. 

If the product or service is scarce because of high customer demand, then even better! The customer will assume the purchase will be a good choice because many other people seem to enjoy it too. 

The sense of scarcity can be artificially generated through limited editions and limited-time sales. 

Sometimes, FOMO is the main driver of a client’s decisions. Sometimes, it’s something else. Getting your client to articulate their thoughts to you can be immensely beneficial for the sales process. 

Get your client to tell you why

This one’s rather sneaky but highly effective because people are more likely to listen to themselves. 

If you can get your client to verbalize why exactly they want the product, then they will, in effect, want it more. To achieve this, ask your client why the product or service appeals to them and what’s holding them back. Your client will be able to tell you, and affirm to themselves, why they want the product or service. If something is holding them back, you will be able to better adjust your strategy.

You can get your client to want your products or services even more through promotional products. 

Give your prospect promotional products

When someone receives a gift, they’ll want to reciprocate the kind action. This makes them more likely to buy from you. 

Promotional products are ideal because not only are you generating a feeling of trust and reciprocity, you’re also advertising your company. The best promotional products are ones that your client will truly enjoy. Therefore, research your target market to create promotional products customized for this group. 

Giving and receiving are beneficial to both parties. Therefore, it’s helpful to get your client to give something as well. 

Ask your client for small favors

Once your client gets in the habit of doing small favors for you initially, they’re much more likely to agree to more significant favors down the road.

This is known as the Ben Franklin Effect. It is named after the founding father Ben Franklin, who, to build rapport, would ask someone for a small favor, such as lending him a book. This small act would generate feelings of warmth and helpfulness. 

In practice, this may look like asking your client to sign up for a free e-letter, share comments on social media, read blog posts, attend free webinars, or download an ebook. Later, when you ask them for something larger, such as to buy a product or service, they’re much more likely to do so. 

Not only will asking your client for small favors prime them for purchases down the road, but the small favors will help your client become more familiar with your business. 

Generate familiarity

Familiarity is good because it creates positive feelings. 

People like the things they are used to. Making your business familiar to your clients will help increase sales because as your business becomes more familiar, it becomes more trustworthy and good in their eyes. However, balance is essential. Too much can lead to oversaturation, which will backfire. Find the middle ground. 

Psychology is a powerful tool for persuasion. The above strategies will greatly help you increase your sales and the growth of your business! Contact us today to get started! 516-561-1468 or FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ANY OF OUR MARKETING PRODUCTS GO TO: www.printcafeli.com

 Be the Best at Customer Service

We all work in customer service to some extent…it just depends on who the customer is.

If you’re in an office, it’s your boss who is the customer. If you’re in retail, it’s the shopper who is the customer. And the list continues. So, it bears repeating that customer service is important.

Sometimes we lose sight of the fact that our customer service skills could be honed a little bit. Or, maybe you have a new employee who doesn’t see how valuable good customer service is. Well, either way, here are a few ways to brush up on your customer service.

The Importance of Caring for Your Customers

Customer service, or customer care, is vital to us all.

It’s the difference between keeping and losing customers to the competition. One wrong move, and we might lose a valuable customer.

Customer service is how we respond to customers, and it entails a lot of duties. It’s not just how we answer the phone. It’s how we help them when they return items or when we explain policies to them. It’s also when we give deadlines or wait times.

Did you know that acquiring new customers is more expensive than keeping the ones you have?

That’s why customer service needs to be top-notch. It can’t be emphasized enough.

Customers want personalized service, and they will typically pay more for it. If your product is more expensive than the competition, but you have an outstanding customer care program, with engaging employees, you will be more likely to charge more for the same product or service. That’s how important good customer service is.

7 Customer Service Tips from the Pros

1. Greet customers by name.

Learn their names and impress them when they walk into your place of business.

2. Keep notes.

Keep a book with notes on your customers, so you remember things they told you, such as a significant event or date. Then be sure to ask about it the next time they come in.

3. Support each other.

Allow employees to share their frustrations. This will help prevent burnout and ensure they are ready to be pleasant with the next customer.

4. Respond quickly.

Be quick to respond when customers have a question, complaint, or want an estimate.

5. Customize the service, so it’s tailored to each customer.

Some people want to get in and out quickly. Other customers want to chat and take their time, so accommodate them.

6. Offer to help a customer before they even ask.

This shows initiative and evokes positive images of your company.

7. Treat customers like real people, not like a number.

Be sure to talk with them in a conversational tone, rather than like they are just another customer waiting in line.

Dealing with customers can be challenging. But when you keep your focus on staying positive and constantly improving customer service, you are sure to win over even your toughest critic.

We appreciate your business and want the chance to serve you in the near future. Check out our website today and see what we offer. Contact us today to get started! 516-561-1468 or FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ANY OF OUR MARKETING PRODUCTS GO TO: www.printcafeli.com