Here is a prototype brochure for promoting my business.
I have been experimenting with all kinds of marketing. I used to think a marketing plan for a contractor was having some business cards out in the truck…in case someone asked for one.
Now, I’m working on this brochure (among other things). I plan to replace the generic clip art with some photos of my work. I would appreciate feedback on content & layout (it is a two-sided, tri-fold–so you might have to print it out and fold it up–or imagine it).
It is a word document download.
Thank You in advance
Replies
oops. This file won't attach...hmmm.
Edited 3/4/2006 3:45 pm ET by basswood
try, try, againedit to add...it is a good thing I decided to be a carpenter instead of a IT guy.
Edited 3/4/2006 3:51 pm ET by basswood
BW -Looks like you're off to a good start. I would use a different font for the main text of the brochure. Courier/Courier New is often a turnoff for readers. Arial/Verdana/Tahoma are often good choices. Should be easy to read and give the impression that you are a contemporary company.I would give your company logo a place on the front page of the brochure, too. That way, if someone sees the brochure but never reads it, at least your logo has been in front of them...Not sure if you're done with the graphics yet, but it might be worth investing a little time and/or money in editing the images a bit to give them a little "pop". (i.e. fuzzy edges or drop shadows instead of plain square edges, mini photo-collages instead of single-photo images, etc.)Looks good, though. Be sure to post your revisions and final copy!!!
I'll try experimenting with fonts, and my logo is being redesigned now too.I'm not sure I want to post my logo...I really like it and would be bummed if too many BT'ers did not. But I should probably risk the derision anyhow.
I don't know your market, but in mine that would not work. People expect very high quality design, and there are more than a couple of cues that it's home-made. My suggestion is that you get a graphic designer. I hope this isn't harsh, but I'm not worth a damn as a designer, no matter how many software programs and pages of clip art you give me. You could spend a few hundred dollars or so on your piece and it would be very flashy. I have seen way too many trades businesses with home-made advertising materials, and I doubt they have the desired effect.
I have a graphic designer working on that part of it...I'm mostly after critique on the content. I just threw some clipart in for the first go round.
At a quick read through - which is probably what most people will do - I think it looks good.
Only you know what you are trying to "push" and "sell" and I assume that's what's in there.
I think you're off to a great start.
As others said - Good money would be spent having someone who specializes in the final touches help in the end. As long as that person doesn't try to do wholesale changes and tell you to market yourself in a completely different way. Just polish YOUR message.
Remodeling Contractor just on the other side of the Glass City
I will take care not to lose my priorities in the revision process...thank you for giving it the quick read.My business cards used to lack focus and produce leads for projects I did not want. The bochure could allow a lack of focus to resurface--too much said, etc.I tried to stick to my core business and say:What I do...cabinets, coutertops, trim, etc.How I do it...caftsmanship, smart design, consulting, etc.Where I do it...new construction, remodels, historic renovation, etc.Cabinet & Trim Guy who has no idea why there are so many references to the Glass City here & has no idea how to make this footer purple.
You're smart to have a brochure, and smart to send it out a prototype for critique.
Here's my brochure theory. The brochure is used in conjunction with the business card. Your business card should reflect the bare bones core of your company. It should be snappy, concise, and high quality.
The brochure is your chance to advertise, sell, describe, and brag. I love what you've said on the inside. That is what a brochure is all about.
Personally I would remove the "Customer Interests" on the inside right. I see it as a filler.
Put some customer comments on it instead: "I am just thrilled with our new kitchen! Basswood was professional, prompt and even finished under budget. He also looks really cute in his Utilikilt! --Judy N, St Paul."
Another possible idea for the inside right lower portion (above or below the "our mission") is to make some slits in the brochure so you can slip your business card into the slots. Just a thought, it may not work out when you lay it out.
Torn is right, you logo needs to be on the front, nice and big. Don't be ashamed of your logo (if you are then you need to change it). Poeple will associate your logo with you and your company. It's amazing how logos (even ultra simple crappy ones like the Verizon checkmark thing) are strongly associated with the company. You logo should probably be on the back too, just smaller. Your logo should dictate the theme for the entire brochure.
On the back you should list some credentials (Licensed, Bonded, Insured, Master Builder's Association, 25 years experience, Fine Home Building Consultant, 5 year guarantee, etc...).
Also, make that phone number big.
You've already got a brochure, (something most contractors don't have), and it's a well thought out good one. I would just do a little minor tweaking, but even if it went to print today, it looks good and conveys the right message.
--Andy
I think it says it nicely. just enough to trigger someone who is immediately in the market.
critique -- I'd use upper and lower case for the text. it reads better.