The success of your postcards depends a lot on the layout, design and ad copy. Be creative, but remember the simple design basics, which will help get your message across to the customer.

1. There is only a limited amount of space available on a postcard, use it wisely. You need to fill the space with information that will only address the main concerns that recipients have. A rule to remember, white space is better than a bunch of words that clutter your message.

2. Headlines need to be powerful, well-positioned and thought-out. They’ll make or break the success of your postcard. If you grab them with a clever headline, they’ll continue reading. Your headline has one objective: drive the reader into the rest of the copy.

3. The subheads are then written and designed to intrigue and arouse the reader further. The subhead is not quite as large as the headline type, and not quite as small as the body copy type. It is the line that provides a smooth transition between the two areas. This line also has the same objective as the headline: get them to read further.

4. Use graphics only if they have a purpose and contribute to the communication of your message. continue reading this entry »

Webster’s defines reputation as “the general esteem, position, character or distinction in which a person or company is held by the public.” A reputation is a distinction (good or bad) earned in the marketplace. A good reputation is gained by meeting certain customer standards. You earn your good reputation, and it will have everything to do with a positive company image.

Your company will be judged on how the client perceives you. Encourage your employees to be polite and provide friendly customer service. Make sure your product or service is competitively priced. It is important to do things as scheduled so that your customers are not inconvenienced.

This is something they don’t easily forget. Realize they are busy and keep appointments with them. This will help you earn a good reputation and leave your customers with a positive opinion of your company.

Image is the feeling, mental picture or the perception that customers develop toward your business. Image is what people believe to be true. You make your company image.

Most markets have many businesses competing for the same customer. Your company must develop an image that will distinguish it from other companies. Otherwise, you will be just another generic business.

This image is built through your reputation, your unique selling position, customer service, and company name, even the condition of your vehicles. Work at creating this image with your target market in mind.

You can enhance your image through motivated employees. If you receive a letter from a customer mentioning one of your employees specifically, be sure to praise them. It’s great for company morale. One restaurant had small patches in the form of a checkmark produced and each time an employee was mentioned in letters, surveys, etc., they received a patch. It is similar to football players wearing symbols on their helmets for each sack they get.