If you’re in the process of starting a new business, you undoubtedly have a lot on your mind – there are endless decisions to be made, approvals to obtain and perhaps even employees to hire. Investing in marketing and advertising materials for your new business might not be at the top of your to-do list, but it’s important to sort these things out prior to launching your business to avoid missing opportunities to reach consumers and get your brand out there. Business stationary includes any branded items designed to showcase your business and brand, for example, business cards or branded envelopes. It can be tricky to know which stationary items are most appropriate for your business and which will make the best impression upon potential clients or customers. To help get you started, we’ve compiled a checklist of the most common business stationary and why they may be valuable to your business venture.
Business cards
Business cards are one of the most important stationary items you can invest in. Receiving your business card is often the first interaction that someone will have with your business, so it’s important to make an impression by ensuring your business cards are well designed, contain all necessary information and are of high quality.
Envelopes & letterheads
Using branded enveloped and letterheads will ensure that your business is perceived as being professional and organised. You can completely customise your letterhead to include important information such as the author’s contact details – this is particularly helpful where your business might have multiple employees or departments.
Notepads & pens
If part of your job involves attending client meetings, then you should think about investing in branded notepads and pens. You will undoubtedly look more professional and organised than you would scribbling on some scrap paper. You can also pop some branded pens on your front desk or gift them to clients with a customised notepad.
Calendars or planners
Investing in some wall or desk calendars can not only help your staff to keep track of important dates and deadlines, but are also a great means of advertising when handed out to clients. After all, producing a branded yearly calendar for clients will mean that your brand will be visible to them every. single. day. and that kind of exposure is priceless.
Presentation folders
Presentation folders are invaluable where your job involves delivering information to clients. You should also think about including a slot for your business card and a branded pen.
Stickers & labels
Stickers and labels are particularly important when it comes to branding your products. For example, stickers can be applied to product packaging such as boxes or bags, while labels might be applied to products to communicate safety hazards.
Brochures & flyers
Flyers & brochures are useful if you want to get important information about your new business directly in the hands of potential consumers, particularly those who may not come across that information online. For example, you could advertise your products and services along with any opening sales or specials.
Appointment cards
Where your job involves organising appointments or meetings with clients, you should think about investing in appointment cards. While they involve a single expense, their value is threefold:
- they contain your business’ logo thereby providing brand exposure;
- they include relevant contact information; and
- they contain a space for appointment details so your clients will not forget important appointments or meetings, which will help avoid interruptions to your day as well as the hassle of rescheduling.
Loyalty or gift cards
In any industry, fierce competition can make it difficult to stand out from the crowd. As a new business, advertising a gift card and loyalty program will help to attract consumers and sway them to choose your business over a competitor’s.