Why go low tech?
Today, in the age of E-Mail, multi-media presentations and the Internet, it's easy to assume that a website can take the place of a printed brochure. Printers today are producing more printed marketing materials than ever. In fact, with people spending so much time in front of computer screen, going through the mail or reading printed materials can be a welcome diversion--and an opportunity for you.
Let's face it, letters take a lot of effort to read through and there are usually no graphics beyond the sender's logo and signature to break up the blocks of copy. A cover letter sent to prospects or handing out a business card to a potential client can make a quick impression, but these two marketing vehicles can only present only a small fraction of information about your business. Meeting prospective clients face-to-face takes time and effort, and sometimes you need a creative way to introduce yourself and your company.
Brochures are a great way to package and deliver a lot of information about yourself, your business and expertise into a format that is easily mailed or handed out at a business meeting. Brochures can be given to current clients to pass on to possible referrals or even left in brochure holders in different locations.
What is a brochure, exactly?
Brochures range from a simple two-fold design using one sheet of 8-1/2 inch x 11 inch paper to elaborate 9 x 12 inch pocket folders with pages stitched in and insert sheets. There is one standard size or configuration, but over the years several sizes have emerged, either to fit mail envelopes or to fit printing presses.
Good brochure design involves not simply producing an expensive-looking, flashy design, but a careful analysis of your target market, what level of sophistication is needed and consideration of your market niche in order to make a great first impression. And, last but certainly not least, your brochure should leave a potential client with something he or she is hesitant to throw away.
Getting started
If you have never created a brochure before, start by collecting a number of brochures (including competitors') that represent a wide range of quality--from simple one and two-color on textured stock to slick 4-color glossy brochures.
By asking yourself what it is that makes a brochure attractive and effective to you, it will be easier to make a brochure for your own business which will convey the message and level of sophistication you require.
Next, you will need to create some basic brochure copy about your business. Even if you're not a professional writer, putting some thoughts and facts about what your business does on paper will help make more concrete what information your brochure needs to convey.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/215120
