Marketing and promotion. Things that every business will need. In fact, it extends outside of just companies and is something that bands, actors, and comedians require. Having some interest or experience in the industry helps to improve how you do what you do.
Once you have decided that promotions are the route for you, it is time to get more serious about it. Gaining experience from an established promotions company can give you a lot of ideas, and the hands-on work is invaluable.
Audience
Who are you for? Are you for bands and musicians that need flyers for gigs and some online work too? Are you for local businesses that need a regular supply of promo materials?
Think about who you want to work with and why. Do plenty of market research into the industry. Start networking with potential clients and industry leaders.
Developing a niche will mean you will never overextend yourself, and you will become known for your work in that area.
Goals
You need to have firm goals for your promo company. How many clients do you want a month, and how will you make it happen? What will be your markers of success?
Setting business goals is typically something that people will do while putting together a business plan. Although some people feel a business plan is outdated, others use it to keep their business on track.
Equipment
There are going to be some things you need. A professional printer, some design software:
- Corel Photoimpact
- Corel Paintshop
- Adobe InDesign
- Inkscape
The design software you choose is a personal choice, and you might need more than one to do what you need to do. It is often beneficial for a promo company to work with a range of graphic designers.
Network
Once you have the right equipment, it is time to put a portfolio together. Aim to have a range of printed materials, or the promo materials that you know the companies that you are reaching out to use. A portfolio is going to be a must here. Something that you can take with you, or that people can see. Broaden your horizons with tradeshows and smaller expos with stands.
Website
While much of your business will be in the ‘real-world,’ having a website where people can upload their own designs will give you a new revenue stream. You can share all of your portfolios on your website, and a range of concept works, too. This is often the first point of contact for most of your clients.
Promo your Promo
Once you have everything you need, it is time to start putting your skills to the test for your own promotion. You might want to consider offering a deep discount for your first couple of customers. Or doing some work for local businesses and charities.
Ensure that any discounts that you give are noted as such. Having a new client call because they heard someone else got X, but you quoted them Y isn’t going to look great.
Promo companies are a very fulfilling option when it comes to business. You are helping other companies realize their dreams and raise brand awareness – while being creative too.
- DISCLOSURE – This post has been written by an outside source.
