Remax Business Cards

Every company is going to need them.

You’re going to have your best and most loyal customers. Recognizing who they are in order to get them to keep coming back is important, but it’s also important to know why they’re so loyal to begin with.

You need to get your customer base to keep growing. If loyal customers are going to be the strongest base, figure out the best way to make that base as big as possible.

Something I’ve always found particularly important about a business is the kind of environment they set up. Good deals are always appreciated, sure, but I have to actually like the place I’m shopping at or like the person I’m doing business with for me to really care about coming back. A great deal might get me in the store, but the environment is what’s going to get me to come back again.

Little things like taking the time to print greeting cards are going to be an important part of that environment for the smaller business. Based on my own experiences I’ve found that the places that take the time and money to get greeting card printing done are the ones I’m most likely to enjoy working with.

There are a variety of reasons why this is typically the case. The first is the fact that I’m aware they put thought to what will make their office as friendly as possible. The very fact that they have chose to print greeting cards means they asked themselves how they could best appeal to the customer.

Of course, if you are going to use greeting card printing you might as well get a good-looking custom greeting card. Doing so can serve two purposes.

The first is the ability to customize your card into something that will better appeal to the industry you’re working in. Ask yourself what it is that people coming to do business with you are going to look for the most, and try to design custom greeting cards that let people know you understand their needs.

The second reason is to establish a strong personality. This goes beyond just the business to a look at who you are and what your company is like. Try to think of a design that’s unique to you alone. If I walk in and see something unusual I’m more likely to remember it months later.

The more I feel I know about a company and the more knowledgeable they appear to be the better the odds are I’ll have interest in working with them again. You can accomplish both of these goals at the same time by using greeting cards.

By getting things started on the right foot you can get everyone in a better mood. From the moment a person walks through your door to the moment they leave, you want them to be pleased. The reason that companies who use greeting card printing are going to be better at making me a loyal customer is because I know they’ve put in the effort needed to make my time with them as pleasant as possible.

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Print Free Business Cards

Recently, I decided that I wanted to do a business card printing. My cards were old and, frankly, I was sick of them. I wanted some new, full color business cards that I wouldn’t get sick of looking at. And I wanted a unique design, too; something that would stand out to anyone that received one.

So I started searching around on the web. What I found was absolutely amazing. I couldn’t believe some of the business card designs that people have used. Here is a list of some of my favorites:

1. Ripped Up Hearts

In Brazil, a couples therapist had full color business cards printed up that had big red hearts on them. However, each heart had a piece of perforated paper on it that you could tear off. Underneath was a message about relationships and how the therapist could help in that area. Is that not a clever (and fitting) idea, or what?

2. Broken Bones

You know how, in the movies, debt collectors like to break bones to “motivate” debtors to pay up? Well, a debt recovery agent took that idea to the bank when he had his business card printing done. His business cards were designed as x-rays showing a broken finger. In the corner, where an x-ray would normally show the patient’s name, was the agent’s name and number.

3. Growing Plants

This idea simply blew me away. A landscape architect company designed a business card that had what looked like the blueprint to a house on the front. The blueprint had little holes all over it, surrounding the house. These holes turned out to be little pots where seeds had been planted. In time, little plants started growing out of those holes!

4. Dog Tags

The NGAP – National Greyhound Adoption Program – had some truly unique business cards made. They were made in the shape and style of dog tags, complete with the chain. Not only would their customers know what they were all about, but they could wear the cards around their neck if they chose!

5. Scratch Off Tickets

One company used a scratch off technique on their cards. On the front of the card was a feather, made out of that scratch off material that you find on lottery tickets. When you scratched off the material, the company name and info was revealed underneath.

6. Mini Maps

Another company designed their cards in the shape of a map. It actually unfolded just like a full-size map, and actually had the location information inside. Not only is this unique and eye-catching, but it helps customers find you more easily, too!

7. Lock Picking Tools

A locksmith had his cards printed up with some fully useable, pull out lock picking tools.

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Personal Business Cards

When you were starting your massage business, getting your massage therapy business card printed was probably the first thing you did. After all, a business card really defines you as a business person. If you've got a card then you must have a business.

But despite all the love and attention massage therapists give their business cards, I have to say that I've never felt that they're all that useful. I've never been a big fan of business cards.

I never spent a whole lot of time, energy or money on developing cards for my massage practice. Of course, I had cards printed and they looked professional, but I never really gave them much regard. I never used them.

They sat on my shelf at work, mostly collecting dust. I certainly would never carry them with me.

I just didn't feel that they were a useful marketing tool. I knew lots of massage therapists with absolutely gorgeous business cards. But that didn't seem to prevent them from a fate of sitting in their offices twiddling their thumbs waiting for clients to come knocking. My cards were mediocre looking and largely unused and I always had a full slate of clients.

My views changed, however, after a massage business event with some key people in the massage industry.

Last year, as the Director of BodyworkBiz.com, the busiest massage website on the net, I was invited to participate in a round table discussion. The other participants were people who I would consider icons in the massage therapy industry: Cherie Sohnen-Moe, the author of Business Mastery; Steve Capellini, the respected spa massage expert and the author of Massage for Dummies; Cliff Korn, Editor of Massage Today and Monica Roseberry, author of Marketing Massage.

I felt privileged to be at the same table with these people. We each shared our thoughts about marketing and building a massage practice. Monica, in particular, seemed to be passionately attached to the idea of using business cards. Frankly, I didn't get it.

But that event made me think about business cards more. And it occurred to me that there was a good reason I didn't like massage business cards...

Most massage therapist business cards are just too darn wimpy.

You can give out lots of business cards, but for the most part they don't do a whole lot of work for you. They are completely passive tools. They certainly are not educational nor are they motivational. For all intents and purposes, they are simply scraps of paper (albeit nice scraps) with your phone number should someone be miraculously inspired to call for an appointment.

That's wimpy!

I've never been a fan of that kind of passive marketing - waiting around for someone to maybe do something someday, like pick up the phone to make an appointment.

I like direct marketing. It's a more active style of marketing. It's marketing that's designed to get people to make a decision.

If I have some contact with a potential customer, I want them to TAKE ACTION NOW.

Let's get real. No matter how well intentioned a person is, if they don't take action now, they are not likely going to get results. Let's say you want to lose weight, for example. If you don't toss the chips in the trashcan and take a walk now, it's not likely going to happen tomorrow.

Same with massage. Someone may be sore, achy, stressed, but if they don't book an appointment now or at least take a step in that direction, it's not likely going to happen.

I don't want to take a marketing approach that gives someone the opportunity to think about it later. Because we're all savvy enough to know that "later" almost always means "never".

So how do you create a massage therapy business card that makes someone want to pick up the phone and call you now?

That's what we'll look at in Part 2 of this article.

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Cheap Business Cards

I've never been a big fan of business cards and in Part 1 of this series of articles I outlined why most massage therapist business cards simply were not a useful marketing tool. But I had a change of heart and in Part 2 of this series, you found out how to add a direct response element to your card to get people calling you for appointments.

Now there is one further very important element that every massage therapist business card should have. It doesn't seem like a big thing, but studies have shown that people will hang onto your business card longer and are more likely to respond...

...if you upscale your image by having them printed in full color on glossy stock.

Use full color business cards. Test after test has shown them to be worth much, much more than the extra expense to print them.

It's true that glossy full color business cards are a little more expensive than a regular card printed on ordinary paper, but the cost is inconsequential. Does it really matter if the cost goes up three or four cents per card? That's hardly going to break your bank account.

They are valuable for a number of reasons. First and foremost, they give you an almost instant boost in credibility. They do this by upscaling your business in your prospect's eyes. Let's face it - they look more professional; they look higher class.

This is particularly important in an industry like massage where we are selling an intangible service. Potential customers can kick the tires when they're checking out a new car, but they can't kick you. They have nothing to judge you on but the visual image that you present. So the materials that represent you must be of the highest quality to represent the quality of your service.

Another benefit is that people hold on to glossy full color business cards much longer on average than black and white ones - ten times as long according to one survey. I guess because they look more expensive, people are just hesitant to throw them out.

So if you're a massage therapist, business cards you create should always be full color, glossy ones and should always have a direct response element to them.

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Free Printable Business Cards

Get Flyer Printing in New York and Business Card Printing in New York for Better Exposure

In most marketing campaigns one of the most reliable strategies is the use of flyers to promote your business. Flyers are an effective tool in the introduction of your new products and services. Their visual impact is more long lasting than TV ads and can contain more detailed information. Influence Graphics offer options for flyer printing in New York to help achieve your desired goals.

For whatever purpose and wherever they are given, they go quickly. Whether at the mall or a trade show, handed out on the streets or tucking under windshield wipers, or even mailed to prospective customers, there is one thing that is certain–you need a high quality flyer to reflect nicely on your company.

Flyer printing in New York at Influence Graphics are of the highest quality and are printed with rich colors and on quality paper stocks. Properly designed flyers with well thought out copy and brilliant colors and imagery can easily make the first impression a lasting experience. Your company will surely stand out from your competitors.

Fast turnaround flyer printing in New York at Influence Graphics is possible due to the fact that the company employs digital printing rather than the traditional offset printing process. The company can print most of the popular flyer sizes …just pick the size that’s right for you. You can also choose the optional UV coating that will give your flyer a more distinguished look. Superior quality, highly personalized service…let Influence Graphics be considered an extension of your company.

Business cards are another tool which you cannot afford to be without. Don’t leave home without it has become a classic tag line but it is applicable and not having a business card to hand to prospective customers can cast you in a very bad light. Business card printing in New York at Influence Graphics can be in large or small quantities. Short run, on-demand printing can provide you with just the right amount of business cards you may need for the moment. You can reorder at any time and if necessary update your business card information with your reorder.

Your business card should have all your necessary information. This includes, name, address, telephone numbers, website, fax, company name and logo. That’s a lot of information and it’s important that you don’t try to cram too much other non essential information on the business card to avoid confusing your prospective customers. Business card printing in New York by Influence Graphics are printed on an Indigo digital offset press on a variety of quality papers to give you the best image.

Just like flyers, business cards are a powerful visual tool to make an impact on prospective customers. Flyer printing in New York and business card printing in New York at Influence Graphics are produced in high quality, full color, and fast! They can be done overnight or even on the same day if necessary.

Whether your business card is for your corporation, a retail store, a real estate company or a service business, or just a plain personal business card, Influence Graphics can print it for you. Both business cards and flyers contain all the information that your customers should know about your company for easy access to you and your services. If you don’t have both, you have so much to lose.

Have your flyer printing in New York and your business card printing in New York done at Influence Graphics; their digital printing is the one to beat. You can be confident and assured that the job will be done right and on time.

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Free Business Cards2

Getting the Benefits of Referrals

A referral is simply another party recommending your product or services. They can come from many parties. Those in ancillary businesses are a great source of referrals. For example, a poet would find someone in the business of printing greeting cards a great source of referrals. There are some simple steps a business owner can take to increase the amount of referral business coming into their shop.

Having a Goal Serves a Critical Role

In order for any program to be effective it must have goals and objective measurements. Simply saying that you'll try for more referrals is not a goal. You should set targets for the number of referrals and corresponding sales going out over the next year. Then work towards hitting goals. Incorporate referral goals into your employee compensation plans. This will encourage all staff to remember to ask for that referral.

Don't Forget That Current Customers Are a Good Bet

Referrals coming from existing customers are an essential source. If you provide a high level of customer service, then odds are high your customers will tell their friends. This is especially so if you indicate your desire that they do so. A simple comment saying to tell your friends can go a long way to meeting your referral goals. This should be instilled in all employees having contact with your customers at point of purchase.

Give Referrals a Lift by Sending a Gift

A small token of appreciation sent to a referring party can go a long way. This can be a gift card or even a free sample of one of your products. For example, a printer could provide some free brochure printing services for a customer who sends a large order their way. The recognition will show you appreciate the referral and most likely encourage the party to make another.

Don't Ask Yet To Those Who Are Upset

Obviously, an upset customer is not a good candidate for a referral. However, they do present an excellent opportunity for a glowing referral if you effectively fix the issue which is upsetting them. A formerly disgruntled customer who has been won over can prove to be your greatest ally. However, wait until the right time to ask for their good word.

Most sales avenues cost money. Catalog and brochure printing aren't free. However, referrals entail no associated expense. Vendors or your customers essentially act as an unpaid sale representative for your business. Provide high levels of customer service. This translates to happy customers. Happy customers then gladly make referrals to your business. Learn to leverage this phenomenon.

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Free Business Cards

One of the most powerful business marketing tools out there is on paper. These include pamphlets, portfolios, and business cards. Using all of them is a plus, but business cards remain the cheapest (and arguably most important) way to market your business. Launching a business requires money from the start, and many may seek to cut corners and save whenever appropriate without sacrificing the integrity of their business. Plus, with inevitable changes to contact information and design for business cards, it is important to save money. One site that offers free business cards is VistaPrint, a company that offers 250 free (has an $85 value)

Business competition can be tough. Adding your name and contact info only on business cards won’t help too much. Instead, business cards should reveal a lot more, like specializations and a website detailing your service. Although VistaPrint prints their cards on heavy paper stock and comes with a selection of designs, they insist on adding their logo and name on the bottom back of each card which can make your business look cheap.

If you want nothing on the back, VistaPrint offers 250 cards for less than five hundred dollars plus the cost of shipping. This is a great deal, considering VistaPrint delivers its cards through the mail quickly. In addition, if you have enough money, heavy textured papers and a professional design might be a possibility. Look around and compare prices at different office stores and print shops. There is always a healthy selection of business card internet suppliers. All in all, true business people carry business cards to pass around. Three or four business cards should be on you at all times to give to potential clients, networkers, relatives, and anyone who can bring money to your pocket.

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Business Cards : Is Your Business Card a Keeper?

First impressions are important in many arenas. First dates are a prominent example. In the business world, your first impression often is dictated by the business card you are handed. Color business cards, if not color custom business cards, are a must in today's marketing world. Take a close look at your current card. What message is it sending? If you either can't tell or don't like the answer then it is time for a new round of business card printing.

Without Quality Paper Your Card Turns To Vapor

Those electing to save a few pennies by using cheap paper often have their card quickly end up down the chute and into the incinerator. Quality paper conveys a quality company. Flimsy paper or perforated edges on your business card is like holes on the elbows of your jacket. Firm and textured paper is akin to a sharply pressed and custom fitted shirt.

Test the Ink by Using the Sink

In addition to the quality of the paper it is also important to use only the best ink. There is an easy way to see how good your ink is. Pour a small drop of water on your card. Does the ink run? If so, it is time for new custom business cards. Many cards can have a long hibernation in the drawer of the recipient prior to actually being needed. When the prospect goes to flip through the cards you don't want a faded card next to your competitor's sharp color business cards.

Without The Right Words Your Card Is For the Birds

There are obvious components of a business card. Your name is primary among them along with applicable contact information. Your company name is also obviously present. Usually a logo is on the card, and today the company's web address is also a must. However, this usually is not enough. Either through a slogan or short line of text you must effectively convey who your company is and what service or product you provide. Without this the recipient might forget who you are and be unable to decipher why he took the card in the first place. Away into the circular file it then goes. Not a good end result for your business card printing budget.

Do They Jibe With Your Company's Vibe?

Your company has an aura. Or, you could call it a style. Your business cards need to match this image. If you own an investment consulting firm, then your card must be precise and highly professional. If you own an extreme sports videography company then obviously your card will be a bit more colorful and wild.

Next time you seek business card printing keep all these considerations in mind. The wrong card can quickly quash a sale. Use custom business cards as a marketing weapon.

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Business Cards : It’s in the Cards

Business cards are a staple of the modern business world in large part due to how inexpensive and versatile they are. Its important to have up to date and informative cards, but in today’s dog eat dog business world just covering the basics is no longer enough. Putting your best foot forward means putting extra effort into the image you present when meeting potential clients. With that in mind, take the following advice to heart before putting in your next business card printing order.

Don’t Go It Alone - Just because you have a printer hooked to your computer that has a business card printing feature doesn’t mean you should be making your own cards. By going with a professional printer, you will have access to higher quality paper stock and a variety of card coatings like matte and gloss. More than this, though, you’ll have professionals with ample experience on hand to assist you with your design and offer suggestions.

Color is Your Friend - Ok, this should be obvious, but I’m constantly amazed by the number of business professionals that overlook this one. Color printing simply give marketing media more appeal than their monochrome counterparts. A lack of color makes your business card seem like an afterthought and can give recipients the idea that you either lack sophistication or simply like to cut corners. The price difference between color and monochrome is minimal but the results of foregoing color aren’t nearly as inconsequential.

Make an Impression - If your business card is a no frills affair with little more than your name and number to tell people who you are, you are really missing out. Business cards don’t have to be that boring. Consider options like cards with a background image or dual sided cards with an image or logo on the reverse side to catch people’s eyes. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box, either. There are a lot of clever things you can do to stand out, like printing magnetic business cards so recipients can hang them on their refrigerator or file cabinet for quick reference later.

Your business cards are your first impression to prospective customers and clients. You should take any edge you can gain in making an impression on them. If you’ve been carrying around the same tired, dog-eared, old business cards you’ve had for the last decade, its time to update your image and really put your best foot forward.

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