General
Oct
08
How To Use Carrier Route Maps To Plan Distribution By Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM)
Zip Codes are broken down into carrier routes.
A carrier route is the daily delivery route of a mail carrier (usually 300-500 addresses)
Carrier routes are shown on the map below with a 5 digit code.
Example: 23C08 – The first 2 digits (23) are the last 2 numbers of the Zip Code (33023).
The next 3 characters (23C08) is the Carrier Route Number.
Use the chart below to cross reference the Carrier Routes shown on the map to find the total number of deliveries. A breakdown of single family and multi family homes is shown for information purposes only. To qualify for EDDM rates, all of the residential addresses must be included. Businesses can be added, however, businesses cannot be mailed without residential addresses.
Example: 33023 C008 (shown on map as 23C08)
Single Family Homes = 406
Multi Family Homes (Apartments) = 107
Trailers = 0
Sub Total = 513
Businesses = 48
Grand Total = 561
If this route is selected, it can be mailed 2 ways.
With only the residential addresses = 513 or if the businesses are included = 561
General Information About Mailing EDDM
Post Office Drop Off
The mailings must be dropped off at the Post Office which handles mail for the Zip Code selected.
If multiple Zip Codes – each must be dropped off at their respective post office.
Minimum and Maximum Pieces
Minimum daily mailing is 200 pieces and the maximum is 5000.
Postage Rate 14.2¢ Per Piece – Pay As You Mail
The entire carrier route count must be mailed at the same time.
If multiple carrier routes are purchased, they can be mailed all at once or one at a time.
Example: Refer to the chart above. If all carrier routes in Zip Code 33023 are purchased (10).
All 4742 pieces can be mailed at once or individually on whatever schedule the mailer chooses.
Payment for each carrier is made on the day of mailing.
C008 with 513 pieces would cost 513 x .142 = $72.85
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Sep
12
How to Design a Sensational Door Hanger in 4 Steps
Door Hanger Advertising is one of the best ways to generate new business. There’s no envelope to open or flyer to unfold, a Door Hanger starts working as soon as it is removed from the door.
So what are the secrets of designing a door hanger that will generate a sensational response? We have developed a 4 Point Design Strategy that has been proven effective.
4 POINT DESIGN STRATEGY
Step 1 – THE GLANCE TEST
The goal is to let the prospect know what the door hanger is about with just a passing glance. Seems obvious, but many door hangers fail the Glance Test and are tossed out without getting the chance to deliver their message.
So, how do you design a door hanger that will pass the “Glance Test”? Use a big headline, with few words, that shouts the main purpose and benefit of your offering. A photo or graphic can also be very effective. A combination of both may be even better.
Step 2 – THE MAGNET
“Magnet” is the term we use to describe the lure, hook, special offer or incentive that will motivate the prospects you are targeting to respond to your advertising. Yes, it’s the bait that is most important when you are fishing for new customers. The stronger your magnet, the more business you will attract.
Which of the four magnets below do you think is the strongest?
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Remember, you don’t have to give all the details. Just tantalize the prospect. The purpose of the door hanger is to generate a lead, an opportunity to make a sale. The door hanger normally will not make the sale, you have to do that.
Step 3 – YOUR CLAIM TO FAME
If you can avoid the trash can by passing the Glance Test and tantalize the prospect with a strong Magnet, your Claim To Fame is used to seal the deal. What is your level of expertise, why should you be trusted and what do others say about your product or service? Sometimes the claim to fame might be you. If so, don’t hesitate to include a photo and a brief professional biography. This is not the time to be modest.
Step 4 – THE CALL TO ACTION
How do you want people to respond? Call on the phone, visit your website or perhaps come to your physical location. If there is more than one option, make sure you emphasize the one you prefer with larger type on both sides of the door hanger.
Design is the most important part of your campaign. Take your time. Show it to family, friends and even a few loyal customers. Remember, no one knows your business better than you do, so make sure you feel as confident as possible that your design is a winner before you launch.
Take advantage of our “No Risk Design Guarantee”. We’ll offer suggestions and make as many changes as needed (never an extra charge) until you are convinced the design is as good as it can be. Good Luck!
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Aug
21
Revealed: The Secret To Door Hanger Advertising Success
ARE YOU READY? HERE IS ONE OF THE SECRETS TO DOOR HANGER SUCCESS:
Repetition is one of the most important parts of any advertising.
Repetition is one of the most important parts of any advertising.
CAN YOU FILL IN THE BLANKS?
National firms, like companies that sell auto insurance rely on repetition to create a “top of mind awareness”. They recognize the fact that consumers may not be ready to purchase insurance the first time they see their ads. To prove the premise, fill in the blanks with the name of the auto insurance company below:
- You’re in Good Hands with ____________________
- Like a Good Neighbor ____________________ is there
- Call ____________________ , 15 Minutes Can Save You 15% On Car Insurance
Chances are you got all 3 right. It’s the result of repetitive advertising.
Studies have shown the importance of repetition. The more we see or hear something, the more likely we are to believe it and act on it. One report says that 59% of respondents will believe and remember the information they receive if they see or hear it 3 to 5 times.
HOW DOES THIS RELATE TO DOOR HANGER ADVERTISING?
So how does this relate to Door Hanger Advertising? Think of it this way. If your goal is to “Grow Your Business”… for the same budget, it is better to distribute door hangers to 1000 prospects 3 times, than to distribute to 3000 prospects 1 time.
Here is an excerpt from an article by the National Federation of Independent Business:
“When designing and placing ads, many small business owners search for the magic bullet: an ad that is so compelling that customers will immediately pick up the phone and call to make an appointment. Remember, advertising is a process, not a one-time event. Advertising research has shown that a consumer usually needs to see an ad five to seven times before responding. This is what the ad industry calls the rule of seven.”
CREATE A TARGET MARKET, BUDGET AND A DISTRIBUTION SCHEDULE
We recommend a monthly distribution schedule in most cases. The important thing to remember is be consistent. Work out a plan that will fit your budget and then stick to it. Momentum will build.
Jun
18
How do you respond to criticism about your business?
I was watching The Food Network the other night. It was one of those competitions between chefs. The judges were handing out criticism in large doses.
It was tough to watch. I witnessed the chefs give their best efforts in a timed performance as the clock wound down, until finally time was up. Ready or not, they were being judged by celebrity chefs and thousands of viewers across America.
Most of the competitors were trying to smile and put on a brave face while their food creations were ripped apart by the judges. One of the contestants had tried to create a towering dessert that consisted of several layers including cookies, cream, fruit and topped with a caramel sauce. It collapsed on the plate and although it probably tasted delicious, it looked a mess.
The chef with the dessert disaster listened to the judges criticism and then responded. “I don’t feel bad. Only Mediocrity Escapes Criticism“.
She was so right. If you are trying to be the best. You should expect criticism. You should even welcome it! In fact, you should even ask for it.
In business, your customers are the “Celebrity Judges”.
We recently started sending out surveys to our customers after each completed sale. The survey includes 5 questions and the answers are multiple choice: A- Excellent B- Above Average C-Average and D-Needs Improvement. We have been delighted with the results. Just about every question has been answered “Excellent”.
However, we noticed that one of the five questions was often answered “Above Average”. Good enough, some businesses might say. Although we are getting a high mark, “Above Average” in this one area, for some reason, we are not being graded “Excellent”. We’re analyzing our process and won’t be satisfied until we achieve a top mark for all 5 questions.
The journey to becoming the best can be a long and exhausting one. Criticism along the way can help keep you on the right path toward your destination. Remember, Only Mediocrity Escapes Criticism.
Mar
21
Are you flattering your competition?
IS FLATTERING YOUR COMPETITION A GOOD IDEA?
You know the old saying: “Imitation is the highest form of flattery”. Every week I talk to dozens of imitators. Small business owners, who don’t realize they are flattering their competition. Chiropractors, pizza shop owners, lawn service operators, owners of just about every type of business you can imagine. Honest, hardworking and hopeful.
IF THEY ARE DOING IT, IT MUST BE WORKING. RIGHT?
They call us, ready to grow their business with a door hanger distribution campaign. For many of them, it’s their first door hanger distribution and they are full of optimism. When we get down to discussing a message and special offers, they often rely on what they have seen others do. If most of the competition is doing it, it must work. Right? The problem is, the competition’s advertising may not be working so good, in fact, it may not be working at all.
THIS IS NOT JUST ABOUT ADVERTISING. IT’S ABOUT MAKING YOUR BUSINESS A SUCCESS!
The idea of imitating the competition goes beyond advertising. It’s a factor that is fundamental to the ultimate success of a business. It’s the difference between just getting by and doing great. We are talking about defining a “Claim To Fame”. Something that separates a business from their competition. It’s a chance to break away from the pack of competitors that are hard to tell apart. Once a business is separated from the rest, it starts to move to the next level of sales and profitability.
HERE’S A JOKE ABOUT OWNING A SMALL BUSINESS.
Two friends are talking. One says to the other. “You are so lucky to have your own business!” The business owner thinks for a moment and replies: “Yes, it’s great. I get to work half days, and as the owner, I get to pick which 12 hours I want to work!”
Sound familiar? Are you tired of working hard and finding yourself in the same place month after month?
If you really want to grow your business into a successful operation, work on creating a “Claim To Fame”. Don’t be discouraged if you can’t come up with something right off the bat. If you ask many small business owners to tell you their “Claim To Fame”, most would be at a loss.
WANT A FREE OPINION? SEND US YOUR CLAIM TO FAME.
Want to brain storm? Send us your “Claim to Fame” and we’ll give you our honest opinion on how it measures up with others in your industry located around the country. No obligation or sales pressure. CLICK HERE.
Mar
06
Start Using QR Codes, They’re The Next “BIG Thing” In Advertising
MY WIFE RENEWED HER WIRELESS PHONE CONTRACT LAST MONTH
My wife’s cell phone contract came up for renewal last month, so it was time to shop for a new plan and phone. Up to this point she was content with the call features, the ability to keep in touch with family and friends using texts and taking the occasional photo with the built in camera.
YOU DON’T KNOW YOU NEED IT, UNTIL SOMEONE SHOWS YOU, YOU CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT IT!
She wasn’t looking for the latest and greatest in technology. She has a laptop, but never thought she would need to go online with her phone. Didn’t matter. Remember that old saying,: “Necessity Is The Mother Of Invention”? Well, I’m convinced that in this day and age, we can change that to: “Invention Is The Mother Of Necessity”! In other words you don’t know you need it until someone shows you, you can’t live without it. You guessed it, the smart phone has arrived and the way the plans are priced, by the time you sign on the dotted line, you’ve got a phone that, in many cases, is faster and can do more than your old desk top computer at home.
IT DIDN’T TAKE LONG FOR HER TO DISCOVER QR CODES
What are QR Codes?
They look like this:
They come to us from Japan where they are very common. QR is short for Quick Response (they can be read quickly by a cell phone). They are basically a bar code, but can store much more data. Many cell phones today come with built in readers. QR readers can also be downloaded for free.
Back to my wife’s QR discovery moment. She’s at the store looking at some towels. She spots a QR Code on the tag which says, “Scan With Your Phone”. She does. Instantly she gets more information than anyone should need to make a towel purchase, and in the process gets hooked!
IF QR CODES ARE THE NEXT BIG THING, MY CLIENTS SHOULD BE USING THEM, NOW!
With more and more smart phones being introduced, it won’t be long before QR Codes are everywhere. So don’t wait. You can create a QR Codes for free online. Give it a try at this link: http://goqr.me/ .
Here are a few example of how businesses are using QR Codes:
- Business Cards – A QR Code can create a vCard when scanned including phone numbers, web address, email etc.
- Postcards & Door Hangers – Someone reading a postcard or door hanger, doesn’t have to be at his computer to view a website. Another benefit, is that the QR Code can be saved on the phone. Now URL addresses that are long or hard to spell can be loaded with the touch of a button.
- Storefront Window – Some restaurants have a QR Code hanging in their window with a quick link to a menu or daily specials. (QR Codes can be any size – some advertisers are using them on billboards)
- Coupons – Advertise the QR Code of a webpage containing special offers that are updated regularly.
- Videos – Links to videos on You Tube or a website can be launched instantly.
Envelopes, stationery, brochures, T-shirts, signs – your imagination is the limit.
Even if you are not the most “tech savvy” individual, using QR Codes will impress those that are and peak the curiosity of those that aren’t.
By the way, the QR Code in this Blog happens to be the web address of our Blog. If you have a smart phone, I hope you will scan it.
Feb
26
Don’t Get Mad At Shoppers
THANKS, I’LL GET BACK TO YOU
Most shoppers are looking for the best price. No one wants to pay too much. But unless they enjoy shopping (and some people do) most folks would rather be doing something else. The truth is, prices for most products and services are pretty much the same from one company to another. Yet, how many times have you presented your product or service to a prospect only to be told, “thanks, I’ll get back to you”. As we all know, that’s code for let me check around for a better price.
WHY DIDN’T YOU GIVE ME THAT PRICE TO BEGIN WITH?
In frustration, I have seen many business owners advertise “WE’LL BEAT ANY PRICE BY 5% OR MORE!”. Does that tactic ever work? Are prospects going to spend time getting written estimates to present to you so you can beat someone else’s price? Or will they think to themselves, why didn’t you give me this price to begin with?
HAVE YOU BEEN OR DO YOU PLAN TO SHOP?
Why not confront the price issue head on? Ask the prospect: “Have You Been Shopping?”
If he answers: “YES”
Then ask him “How does my price compare?” If your price is much higher there can be 2 reasons:
1- The prospect is not comparing “apples with apples” and you’ve got an opportunity to straighten him out.
2- Your prices really are higher. If so you better address that fact.
If he answers: “NO”
Assume that he is going to. You should inform the prospect that most reputable providers of your product or service have very similar prices and that he shouldn’t make his choice based on price alone.
IF NOT PRICE, THEN WHAT?
With either of the above answers, you need to finish your presentation with the reason that the client should do business with you. Your “Claim To Fame” or whatever makes your offering unique and better than the competition.
If you can’t define what makes you better than the rest, in real terms, then you may be doomed to suffer the horrible fate of always being at the mercy of those price shoppers.
DON’T GET MAD, CHANGE THE SUBJECT
By the way, don’t get upset with price shoppers. Chance are you are a price shopper too. Everyone starts out comparing prices until someone challenges that notion and gets them to compare features and benefits.
HERE’S HOW WE HANDLE “SHOPPERS”
We try to get prospects to go to this page on our website – it addresses the price issue. Check it out: CLICK HERE
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Feb
06
Are You Ready To Commit?
In the current economy, many business owners are wondering what to do to maintain and hopefully increase sales. The obvious solution is to advertise. Even some established businesses that have relied on word or mouth or reputation in the past, are considering some type of an advertising campaign. If you are one of them, regardless what media you choose, there is one word you should remember: “COMMITMENT”.
Remember, most advertising media works. TV, radio, direct mail, newspapers, billboards, door hangers, etc may be new methods of advertising for your business, but they have been proven effective for thousands of others. Of course, some media choices for your particular business are better than others. You’ve got to do some research, evaluate costs and your budget, and then make a choice. Chances are you will make the right one.
Choosing which media to use is only the first step. After you launch your campaign, you have to evaluate the “R O I” (Return On Investment). Yes, advertising is an investment, and like many investments, it may take a little time for your investment to pay off. True, sometimes, advertising may seem more like a visit to a casino. You make a bet and once in a while luck is on your side. Smart businessmen try to avoid that hit and miss cycle.
So what is the answer? Commitment! Stick with it. Advertising is hard. It is a process. You have to advertise, carefully evaluate the results, fine tune your campaign and then try it again. That is the hard part. It may seem as though you are putting good money after bad. But remember, it is an “investment”. Don’t cut your losses and run after just one try. Even if no one responds to your advertising, that is still a result. Obviously not the result you were hoping for, but a result just the same. Poor or no response can reveal things about your prices, your competition even your reputation if you are honest with yourself.
A last word caution. When shopping for advertising (or anything else for that matter) don’t use price as your only consideration. If you are not an expert in the field, then find a supplier that can educate you as well as provide the product or service you are seeking. Getting the right advice can be priceless!
Sep
03
6 Reasons To Use Door Hanger Advertising
Congratulations for considering Door Hanger Advertising for your business. Door Hangers are one of the best methods for small businesses to attract new customers. Here are 6 reasons why:
- 1-DOOR HANGERS ALWAYS REACHES YOUR PROSPECT
Why is this true? Because you are physically putting the door hanger on the prospects front door. It is going to be removed and in the process, your prospect will at least glance at it. If it is designed properly, you’ll get his attention and if he needs your product or service, you have a chance for a sale. Not everyone gets the newspaper. Even those that get a paper may not read it from beginning to end, so your ad may never be seen. How about radio or TV? Do you have a budget to cover multiple stations at all times during the day? Probably not. Billboards, signs, even aerial banner planes can be a hit or miss situation. Most other media options can not compare to the success of door hangers. - 2-DOOR HANGERS OFFER THE BEST TARGETING OPTIONS
Can you believe the amount of retail shopping plazas that have been built in the past 20 years? Each one seems to be a clone of the one just down the street offering the same lineup of stores. So when advertising, it is more important than ever to geographically target the homes closest to your location. Set your own distribution territory and distribute your door hangers to the homes that are your best prospects. You can even use demographic factors when deciding where to distribute. For example: newer houses are usually owned by younger families with children. Some neighborhoods are decidedly ethnic. Trendy apartments are often inhabited by young single professionals, and so on. - 3-DOOR HANGERS OFFER THE MOST ACCURATE TRACKING
Tracking response is easy with door hanger advertising. Include a special offer that can only be redeemed with the return of the door hanger. If you can’t measure results you won’t be able to make the right advertising decisions. Keep close track of which offers work best and get rid of the offers that don’t. - 4-DOOR HANGER ADVERTISING IS A GREAT VALUE AND AFFORDABLE
How do you know? Divide what you spend on your door hanger campaign by the number of customers or leads generated. Once you have your cost per lead deduct it from the profit you make on a sale to calculate your return on investment. Do the math. You will find that door hanger advertising is one of the most affordable methods you can choose. - 5-DOOR HANGERS LET YOU ADVERTISE ON YOUR SCHEDULE
Timing is everything. Launch your campaign on your schedule. Plan for the entire year using holiday and seasonal themes to get more attention. Increase or decrease distribution schedules based on how busy you are. Instantly launch a new product or service. - 6-KEEP YOU COMPETITORS IN THE DARK
When you advertise in the newspaper or other media, you are also sending your advertising strategy to your competitors. With a door hanger distribution, for the most part, your advertising is between you and your prospects.
If you decide to personally deliver your door hangers, there is another benefit – exercise! Walking door to door is good for your health and the thought of promoting your business in the process is good for your spirit! Wishing your and your business All the Best!
Sep
01
3 Steps To A Successful Door Hanger Advertising Campaign
Many small businesses have discovered that Door Hanger Advertising is an effective and affordable marketing method. Door Hangers allow you to advertise on demand. Distribution costs are lower than postage and results can be evaluated almost immediately.
Over the years we have put together a three step process for a Successful Door Hanger Campaign. The steps are in the form of questions: WHAT, WHO and HOW. Here are the details:
Step 1 – WHAT?
What are you going to promote? Be specific. Avoid including a long laundry list of products or services. Pick your most popular or best value. Promote a sale item or introduce something new. Less copy and large type is important. You only have a few seconds to grab the readers attention.
Step 2 – WHO?
Who are you targeting? Pick the neighborhoods that you feel will produce the greatest response. Distribute door hangers in neighborhoods that are closest to your location. You can also factor in some demographic information by evaluating home values. Schools indicate the presence of families with children, apartments can indicate younger or older residents.
Step 3 – HOW?
How are you going to get your prospects to respond? You are probably going to need a special offer. The stronger the better. This is the most important factor in delivering a good response rate. Make sure the offer is featured prominently and can be seen at a glance. Our graphic artists will help you create a custom door hanger that will maximize your offer and call to action.
Some closing thoughts. As with all advertising, repetition is one of the keys to success, so it is important to establish a budget and a schedule for your door hanger campaigns. Expect a little bit of trial and error. Don’t be discouraged if response is lower than you expected. Fine tune your next door hanger and try again. If you distribute door hangers on a regular basis you will find that response will continue to improve and eventually become predictable.