What print materials are essential to advertise a new business?

At the very least, effective promotion begins with a logo, business card, and brochure. A significant amount of time and planning should go into the creation of these items because they will be the core of your business identity. It is also essential that your logo, business card, and brochure all have the same color scheme and layout so they can work together to solidify the look and feel of the business. To accomplish this, it’s usually best to hire one company for your graphic design.

Postcard mailers are a good addition to an ad campaign. Again, to maintain visual consistency for all your advertising, the postcard design should reflect that of the other business collateral. Postcard advertising is most successful when using a mailing list targeted to those recipients most likely to need your product or service. 

Printed ads and flyers will eventually be needed as you expand your advertising. It’s wise to have your ads available in color and b/w, and also in various sizes for use in newspapers, magazines, and the yellow pages. Single-sided flyers look best and have maximum impact in color.

The next group of advertising materials fall into the category of ‘not essential, but nice to have if your budget will allow’. Logos printed on pens, pencils, stationary, and coffee mugs are popular for company publicity at conventions and expos. Logo designs reproduced on clothing and accessories such as backpacks and tote bags are also becoming popular as a unique form of getting the word out about a new company.

With limited cash, the most effective way to promote a new business is to proceed slowly. Increase your advertising methods as your budget will allow but don’t neglect the heart of your advertising - a solid logo, business card, and brochure. 

Do you have ideas for small business advertising? Comment on this post and let me know.

Coming up . . . How much does professional graphic design cost, and is it worth it?