Great Reach Communications, Inc.

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If I Were A Printer

Patrick Whelan

Here are some things I would absolutely do.

  1. I would make sure that my website was better than any of my competitors. I'd obsess about this. Plan at least quarterly meetings to discuss and implement improvements. Make sure that new content was being added at least monthly and solicit feedback from clients and others outside company.
  1. I would send out a print newsletter at least every 90 days.
  1. I would send out an email newsletter at least every month.
  1. I would add short videos to my website focusing on recent projects, success stories and tutorials. All under 2 minutes.
  1. I would utilize Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Google+ to engage my audience.
  1. I would learn about and develop a LinkedIn strategy. For my business, it's the #1 source of traffic to my website. No reason it can't be for yours, as well.
  1. I would have my website audited for SEO at least once a year by Marcia Morgan. Marcia has a great knowledge of both the print industry and SEO.
  1. I would host quarterly webinars. Short, 30 minute events on relevant topics.
  1. I would network. Joining groups and associations that harbor potential clients.
  1. I would host events, both educational and networking ones.
  1. I would always be learning, and I'd follow Print Firm's blog. Katherine Tattersfield is a tremendous source of knowledge.
  1. I would always have a live person answering phones and I would invest in training for this person. As Dave Thomas (Wendy's founder) used to say, "the first bite and the last bite are what people remember most."
  1. I would post a letter (Customer Bill of Rights?) from me (President) on the website and provide my contact info. This is very effective for fostering trust.
  1. I would send an email follow-up survey after every completed job.

I am not a printer. I'd like to hear your feedback and additions to this list. I'll compile them and share with everyone who replies. You can reach me at pat@greatreachinc.com.You can also download a free copy of my report, 10 Marketing Ideas to Help Printers Prosper in 2014.