Resourceful. Inspired. Affordable. Personal.

Creating Your Own Customized Branding Merchandise

2008-04-25T20:15:00.017-04:00

Are you a do-it-yourself kind of person? Do you cater to different clients, participate in various events? Find branding merchandise and imprint minimums too high? Looking for something more personal or simply want to save money?

If inspired, there are many ways you can create a lasting impression with your own personalized promotional items and gifts that are reflective of you and your recipients or the different occasions you offer give-aways. Plus you can always recruit others to help and have fun while you're at it.

A lot of sites offer wholesale novelty merchandise, bulk candy and gifts. Costco's, Sam's Club etc. can provide you with great items you can personalize for specific projects, events, seminars, clients etc. It's all how you package them and incorporate your contact information.

Dollardays.com is an example of a one-stop shop for anything and everything you can imagine ranging from mini travel kits, spa sets, frames, office and home gifts, desktop fountains, sport related and food items, etc. to brand and designer gift items all at remarkably low prices. You can get endless ideas that will allow you to target specific clients and events making them all the more memorable.

And never underestimate the power of a treat! GroovyCandies.com and NationwideCandy.com are just two online wholesaler's offering great bulk pricing and well loved brands. Of course there are healthier options and you can even make your own treats if you have a specialty to show off...and all that extra time! They'll certainly remember your efforts, which is the point. So. now that you have items in hand, how do you personalize and package them? Depending on your industry, your recipients, and the purpose of the gift, following are several suggestions to get you started.

Personalizing Your Products:

- Create custom labels you can adhere to individual items. You can print your own or have them made by the roll. The copy could be your website, copy of your business card, a thank you, or anything appropriate for the occasion.

- A gold or silver label printed in black will give the item a higher end boutique look. Two sites that offer custom printing and a variety of options are LightningLabels.com and ColorPrintingWholesale.com

- If you are filling gift pouches, envelopes, bags or boxes with samples, candy or other items, punch a hole in your business card or a card you've printed for the specific event and attach with a ribbon.

It's All In The Presentation

You can make anything look richer just by paying a little extra attention to how you present it. Be creative. Be Unexpected! NashvilleWraps.com offers a large variety of every kind of gift packaging ranging from assorted boxes, baskets, mini organza drawstring pouches and wrappings with low minimums.

- If the items you ordered are packaged in stock boxes with model numbers on them, please! get rid of them and either indulge in gift boxes with tissue or shredded paper or if the item is already packaged or wrapped, the simplest way to dress it up (with or without cellophane or tissue paper) is with a ribbon or raffia and business card or hang tag attached.

- Bulk goods, several small items as one gift or a gift certificate or special offer card can be packaged in various size organza drawstring pouches with a card either attached or included in the bag.

I hope you found this Resourceful. Inspired. Affordable. Personal.

Warmly,
Andi

http://www.ThePerfectPresent.net
Branding Merchandise & Marketing Concepts...with a twist!
Personalized Consulting Packages and Merchandise Quotes
http://ResourcefulInspiredAffordable.blogspot.com

5 Marketing Tips Inspired by My Dog

2008-04-09T17:08:00.016-04:00

Alright, I admit it! Somehow, everything comes back to my delightful dog, Moxie. But, in their pure simplicity, the following tips make perfect sense even in human terms. Our pets, (cats too) are called our best friends for many reasons, including what we learn from them.

1. Never Underestimate the Power of a Treat! Human "treats" can range from meetings over coffee, a meal or drinks to yummy incentives, give-aways and appreciation gifts. I recently had, what turned into a lovely 3 hour lunch with a potential client; a productive, uninterrupted and much more pleasant experience than sitting in a fluorescent lit conference room.

Instead of giving away another generic promotional item at your next trade show, seminar or event, try a little morning or midday "treat", it will go a long way. Plus, people tend to gravitate and linger around food, making for continuing conversation. While you can literally get your logo imprinted on cookies and chocolates request details, or order award winning cookies, brownies, chocolate pretzels and gift baskets from our friends at Geoff & Drews, if you are on a limited budget, individually package several cookies, candies (wouldn't you smile if you got some Tootsie Rolls?) or mini muffins (that you purchase or make yourself if you're so inclined) and include your card or a special offer. It's so simple and will be appreciated. And remember, it's all in the presentation, so visit Nashville Wraps for some great ideas, great prices and low minimums.

These days, you can send clients every imaginable food item or a gift certificate to Restaurant.com to both show your appreciation and offer as a referral incentive.

2. Creating That Special Bond, humanly known as relationship building. While I won't bore you with our story, or my love letter to Moxie, did you ever notice sometimes it's easier to talk to someone you just meet and click with, than a friend's spouse you've known forever? If you're really lucky, when you meet a prospective client, there's a natural connection of some kind to build on. These are the people to develop a relationship with first, since they will most likely be open to networking and providing new contacts. I understand in some industries the courting process can take months (I'm in the middle of one of those projects right now). Sometimes it pays off, and sometimes not, which brings us to Moxie's expertise....

3. Patience... is patience! I know I am very lucky, and Moxie's patience never ceases to amaze me. I am trying to follow his lead. His laid back determination sitting and waiting, waiting, waiting, for that additional piece of food he knows I will eventually break down and give him after I've said no more. No hard-sell there. Just patience. Forget that adorable little face is staring at me the whole time! And when he very nicely waits, while I repeatedly get side-tracked after telling him we are going to do something. So what does this have to do with us??? Once we've pitched, submitted, invited, met with, etc. etc. we wait, and wait and wait..... even now, I am trying to be more patient while I "wait" on four exciting potential projects! A lot of times people get so side-tracked and overwhelmed and we have to remember not to take it personally (although I always do). Since I prefer the kinder gentler approach, I hate to repeatedly "bother" people, and yet more often than not, when I finally do call or email yet again... I am received with appreciation for following up or an apology. So yes, sometimes no news is good news and "good things come to those that wait". Regardless, you have to do what makes you comfortable.

4. Loyalty. Nothing beats the loyalty our beloved furry friends shower us with, but we've earned it. We created the bond, given the treats and taken good care of them which is rewarded with their loyalty. Have you given your clients reason to be loyal? Have you taken good care of them? Shown them you understand and fulfilled their needs? Shown them appreciation? All very simple, but it's the little things.... Now, does anyone have any thoughts about getting them to give us unconditional love too?

5. Companionship. Moxie wanted me to mention, studies have proven pets in the workplace create a very positive environment leading to more productivity, less absenteeism, less stress etc. They make the best colleagues (especially if you work solo), inspire, motivate, make you take fun breaks (alien to non-smokers), you don't mind working longer and best of all, they aren't big on office politics!

I hope you found this Resourceful. Inspired. Affordable. Personal. Do not hesitate to contact me for personalized recommendations!

To be continued...what I learned from my cat, Precious. Hmmmm......

Warmly,
Andi (and Moxie)

Warmly,
Andi

http://www.ThePerfectPresent.net
Branding Merchandise & Marketing Concepts...with a twist!
Personalized Consulting Packages and Merchandise Quotes
http://ResourcefulInspiredAffordable.blogspot.com

You are Part of the Package

2008-04-07T11:04:00.005-04:00

The tip I am about to share, is not one you would expect to find on this type of blog, however...it is resourceful, inspired, affordable and definitely personal. In the recent issue of Prevention Magazine, in an article titled, Head-To-Toe Healthy, one tip in particular caught my eye. Having tried it, yesterday and this morning with impressive results, I wanted to pass it along.

In addition to your services, product and expertise, YOU are a major part of your presentation and we all have only one chance to make a first impression. We are literally and figuratively groomed, dress the part, talk the talk, etc. etc. While I've toyed with the idea of having my teeth professionally whitened, they advise against it if you have sensitive teeth (which I do) and I think it's ridiculously priced since you have to do it repeatedly.

So, what is that tip I am referring to? According to Letha Hadady, DAc, "Combine 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda with 1 or 2 drops of Peroxide. Brush on, let sit for a few minutes, then rinse (don't swallow) and ta-da- enjoy your once-again pearly whites. Baking soda serves as a safe, light bleach. A Baking Soda and Salt mixture can also restore the shine of dingy teeth (dip a wet toothbrush into 1/4 teaspoon Baking Soda and sprinkle with up to 1/8 teaspoon Salt) as effectively as it polishes your pots and pans. However, the peroxide recipe if safer for people on no-salt diets". (No, I didn't know about the pots and pans either, but as long as it's safe...)

I tried both ways, and personally, find dipping the toothbrush into some Baking Soda and topping with salt easier and more pleasant since you don't have to let it sit although I may alternate. Either way, I have to say I noticed a big difference immediately and this little tip I discovered has made me very happy.

So enjoy and SMILE!! I hope you found this Resourceful. Inspired. Affordable. Personal.

Warmly,
Andi

http://www.ThePerfectPresent.net
Branding Merchandise & Marketing Concepts...with a twist!
Personalized Consulting Packages and Merchandise Quotes
http://ResourcefulInspiredAffordable.blogspot.com

What 's In It For Them? Client Referral Motivators.

2008-03-12T17:55:00.012-04:00

While we all agree, your delightful personality, expertise and superior services/products should be enough to get your clients calling everyone they know, like it or not...a little extra incentive (what's in it for me) goes a long way. Of course, it depends on what you do, what is appropriate and what is reflective of you and your clients.

Referral "bonuses" are not realistic for everyone, but sending a happy client even a little thank you or thinking of you gift (a sweet afternoon treat?) or interesting article with a handwritten note, is a small gesture that becomes it's own motivator and your client will certainly talk about you! And, if you're comfortable and it's appropriate, include a referral request in your note.

Can you offer an informational seminar or mini event to a current client(s) who agrees to bring xx number of potential clients? Partner with a complimentary or "fun" service to make it more enjoyable and have them do the same with their clients, doubling your possibilities.

If you are a coach, consultant, dentist, masseuse, etc., and offer series of sessions, are you willing to offer a discount? Your current client gets a break on their continuing services, and you getting new clients, paying full price. Bring in one new client and receive 10% off your next session/service. You could give 20% for two new clients, 30% for three etc. or stop at 30%. Or, request three referrals and offer a complimentary session or service. Similar to the buy 9 cups of coffee and the 10th is free.

If you don't have services or products you can provide, or don't want to extend a discount, what about offering a "free lunch"? Make it as simple or creative as you like. One new client referral receives a "free lunch", three receive a "free dinner". While there are endless types of gift certificates you can provide, Restaurant.com offers inexpensive dining certificates to great local restaurants nationwide valued at $25., $50., $75., $100. and up. A $25. gift certificate is $10. Depending on the discounts offered when you sign up, you can get them for $4. each. An impressive "free $100 dinner" would only cost $16! They also have merchant partners so you can send cookies as that afternoon treat, wine, flowers, etc. Think about what other gift cards are reflective of you and your clients? It's not even how much you spend, include a clever note... it's about making a lasting impression.

To really motivate your clients, in addition to keeping referral bonuses in your business arsenal, create a contest, promotion or limited time offer. This month, we are offering......., or For a limited time.... etc. If you find this works with your current clients, you might want to consider coming up with different incentives to keep them motivated and providing you, with new business!

I hope you found this Resourceful. Inspired. Affordable. Personal.

Warmly,
Andi

http://www.ThePerfectPresent.net
Branding Merchandise & Marketing Concepts...with a twist!
Personalized Consulting Packages and Merchandise Quotes
http://ResourcefulInspiredAffordable.blogspot.com

Yes, There's A Union For Us Too!

2008-03-06T10:45:00.007-05:00

If you are an independent contractor, solo practitioner, consultant, coach, service provider or freelancer, the Freelancers Union might just be the perfect solution for you.

Joining the union allows you to create a profile offering your services and to request outsourced assistance as needed. We all know the difficulties of finding affordable insurance in general, let alone just for "one/or your family". Members are given a number of options for health, life, disability and dental policies at group rates.

Freelancers Union has partnered with many organizations and companies to offer special discounts for both business and leisure, which for some of us overlap. And if you're so inclined, you can participate in their advocacy campaigns regarding issues facing independent workers.

I hope you find this Resourceful. Inspired. Affordable. Personal.

Warmly,
Andi

http://www.ThePerfectPresent.net
Branding Merchandise & Marketing Concepts...with a twist!
Personalized Consulting Packages and Merchandise Quotes
http://ResourcefulInspiredAffordable.blogspot.com

At the very least, you have to sell yourself!

2008-03-03T21:09:00.003-05:00

A creative by nature, unlike people "born to sell", I was not! When I find myself excited about new ideas, products or services and enthusiastically tell people, I don't think of that as "selling", but simply sharing, because it comes so naturally. But when I think of the prospect of "selling", unconsciously (consciously?) I hear a little voice that says, "I am not a sales person". That said, we all need to "sell" ourselves, in order to get the opportunities to provide our own specialties and expertise.

While some of you may have the "selling gene", the rest of you, regardless of your profession, will benefit from this short list of resources. Though barely scratching the tip of the "how-to sell" iceberg, you've got to start somewhere. And hey, you may even find you're a natural...after all! With endless sites, seminars, books and resources, just try to find what works for you and fits your style, enabling you to do what you do best!

Sometimes, it just takes that one tip that resonates with you to get the ball rolling and make you more comfortable with the process. That said, sign up (you too guys) for Diva Sales Tips Selling Doesn't Have to HURT Any Longer! by Kim Duke. And to prove my point, Kim's tag line spoke to me!

Top 10 Sales Articles is a site that researches and evaluates top sales articles written by experts every week and provides them in a single location for your convenience.

Just Sell provides selling tools, sales downloads, additional sites, leads and motivation! Sign up for one of the several targeted newsletters they offer.

If you're up for a little hypnosis, Hypnosis Downloads offers a download for $12.95 (they do offer a 90 day risk free option) titled "Selling Yourself". They offer a number of other interesting topics too.

I hope you find this Resourceful. Inspired. Affordable. Personal.

Warmly,
Andi

http://www.ThePerfectPresent.net
Branding Merchandise & Marketing Concepts...with a twist!
Personalized Consulting Packages and Merchandise Quotes
http://ResourcefulInspiredAffordable.blogspot.com

How do you answer, "What do you do?"

2008-02-25T17:28:00.010-05:00

Since like a lot of people, I want to be all things to all people (a big no-no). I've always dreaded those four little words. With so many possibilities, it was also tough to break it down into what Laura Allen calls a 15 Second Pitch.

The other day I came across an article by Certified Guerrilla Marketing Coach, Avi Frier with those four little words, What do you do? For some reason, his logic resonated with me and really gave me some clarity. Answering I am a doctor, lawyer or Indian chief, is not what you were asked. You're not telling people what you do!

I realized this is a great way to make yourself focus on what you provide. It gives you the opportunity to more clearly target different audiences, skills and services you want to offer. And, once you determine how you want to reply to "what do you do" or develop your elevator pitch...you'll have the answer for both.

Plus, as I mentioned in Is your business card's back side naked?, once you have your statement defined, you can include it on the back of your cards, making different cards for different potential clients. It will reinforce your initial conversation and ideally, make you stand apart from your peers.

I hope you find this Resourceful. Inspired. Affordable. Personal.

Warmly,
Andi

http://www.ThePerfectPresent.net
Branding Merchandise & Marketing Concepts...with a twist!
Personalized Consulting Packages and Merchandise Quotes
http://ResourcefulInspiredAffordable.blogspot.com

Market Yourself As A Triple Threat and Help Make A Difference...

2008-02-22T12:34:00.004-05:00

As you know, in the entertainment world, a triple threat is someone who can act, sing AND dance, making them that much more desirable to cast. If you aren't already providing your services or products as silent auction items, raffle prizes or gift bag inserts to non-profit events, it's something to think about. Consider how the organization, your potential clients, and you, all benefit from this gracious gesture, which by the way...is tax-deductible. Besides exposure, you'll feel good too!

1. The Non-Profit.

First and foremost, with no out of pocket expense, the non-profit benefits the auction bids and raffle purchases. The more desirable the "package" you put together, the more money you help raise.

2. For Event Guests and Participants (potential clients)

Many years ago I was at a black tie event where a dentist offered a series of teeth cleanings for the silent auction which has always stuck in my head. At the time, I thought it was, to say the least, a rather odd prize. However, if you were the winner, you got to write a check supporting the organization (again tax-deductible) for services you would be spending money on anyway.

Depending on your profession, for the gift bags or other give-aways, you can provide samples, brochures, or a card with a "special offer" for attendees. If you work on commission, why not offer a gift for a certain number of referrals provided or take a business card ad in the event journal?

3. For You

By offering his services, the dentist created good will and got his name in front of an upscale crowd who were potential patients. In addition to your favorite causes and trade groups (most have a charitable arm or non-profit they sponsor), another way to promote yourself is to think about your ideal client and what events or organizations they are involved with, both professionally and socially. Don't just go for the obvious, since you want to stand apart from the crowd! Remember, it's not just about the person who wins your donation, but the potential clients who need and can afford your services or products.

Andi, if it means thinking out-of-the-box, regardless of your profession, you do have something to offer!!! Now get out there....and help make a difference!

I hope you find this Resourceful. Inspired. Affordable. Personal.

Warmly,
Andi

http://www.ThePerfectPresent.net
Branding Merchandise & Marketing Concepts...with a twist!
Personalized Consulting Packages and Merchandise Quotes
http://ResourcefulInspiredAffordable.blogspot.com

Free Trade Magazine Subscriptions & Technical Document Downloads

2008-02-20T13:56:00.010-05:00

Having recently discovered www.tradepub.com , I wanted to share it with you and suggest you pass it along to your clients and colleagues. Just browse through their extensive list of free business and trade magazines, white papers, downloads and podcasts. Choose from titles that suit your skills and interests including topics relating to management, marketing, operations, sales, and technology. This is absolutely free to all professionals who qualify, so make sure to fill out the application forms completely. It's also a great way to learn about other industries you might like to pursue and market to.

I hope you find this Resourceful. Inspired. Affordable. Personal.

Warmly,
Andi

http://www.ThePerfectPresent.net
Branding Merchandise & Marketing Concepts...with a twist!
Personalized Consulting Packages and Merchandise Quotes
http://ResourcefulInspiredAffordable.blogspot.com

Is bartering an option for you?

2008-02-19T09:25:00.013-05:00

Bartering is an excellent way to get new clients (paying referrals) and the services/products you need for your business (or pleasure) without spending out of pocket cash. The following list shows an example of professions and industries you may never have thought of, that can provide bartering. http://www.barterconsultants.com/products_services.cfm

It might just be worth determining what you can offer professionally, not just for business services but for that massage or trip all your hard work deserves! And if your hobbies or other skills you excel at fall into a category, then put them to work for you too!

You can barter through your own networks and contacts or join any number of services. Here is a link to some national resources you can start with. http://vipbarter.com/links.shtml.

I hope you find this Resourceful. Inspired. Affordable. Personal.

Warmly,
Andi

http://www.ThePerfectPresent.net
Branding Merchandise & Marketing Concepts...with a twist!
Personalized Consulting Packages and Merchandise Quotes
http://ResourcefulInspiredAffordable.blogspot.com

Is your business card's back side naked?

2008-02-18T22:17:00.023-05:00

Now that I have your attention... while re-designing my card, I decided to put my phone and fax numbers on the back lower right side. Staring at the card, it occurred to me, instinctively, most people will automatically turn a card over to look for the phone number. So take advantage of that available "ad space" by including something unique to make a personalized and more memorable first impression!

By offering something reflective of you, your profession or clientele, you can simply set yourself apart from your peers, starting with your card. Below are some suggestions to get your wheels spinning. The possibilities are endless....

Write a personable sentence about what you specialize in or why you are different than everyone else with your title (in addition to the fact you are writing this sentence). Explain what you do, provide or who you're target is, because they may know someone specifically looking for your assistance.

Double your exposure and get in front of ideal clients whose paths you might not otherwise cross by partnering with a (reputable) complimentary business or service that will benefit both of your clients. Depending on your profession and personal style, you can present each other as an introduction, a recommendation, a "thought this might interest you" or simply print one business on each side and when you hand out the card, mention this is a company you work with that will benefit them.

What are you offering that makes you different than everyone else with your title? What will motivate people to follow up with you even if just out of curiosity? Is there some related group, article, complimentary information you can supply or include links that might be useful?

Who doesn't love a little something extra? Can you provide an incentive to contact you? To receive articles/tips/facts etc. about XYZ, sign up at.... What about a "limited-time" offer or discount when you purchase a series of your services or sessions. A give-away etc? Referral discount? or something for free if they contact you?

Provide different offers to targeted groups. It's an interesting way to see who responds to what.Make up cards for specific networking events,conferences, trade shows, non-profit events etc. For example: Members of XYZ, we are pleased to offer a special ..... XYZ Event attendees, enjoy a ...............For non-profit events, you might consider offering to donate xx% of their first purchase or project with you to theorganization.

www.printsmadeeasy.com offers quantities as small as 20! For an additional $8.00 to make this double-sided card, how can you not take advantage of this opportunity to make yourself shine ??

Think about it, if you are willing to give a little added-value upfront, chances are, you're the kind of person people will want to work with! Wouldn't you want to work with you?

I hope you found these suggestions Resourceful. Inspired. Affordable. Personal.

Warmly,
Andi

http://www.ThePerfectPresent.net
Branding Merchandise & Marketing Concepts...with a twist!
Personalized Consulting Packages and Merchandise Quotes
http://ResourcefulInspiredAffordable.blogspot.com