Starting a small business can be tough, but it's definitely rewarding. One of the most important things that someone can do to set their business up for success is to create a strong brand identity. A big part of that is using branded stickers and labels. There are plenty of ways to get your hands on custom business stickers, but there are also a lot of drawbacks to ordering online.
Stickers For Businesses: Why There's An Opportunity
But many small business owners balk at the expense of paying a large company like Sticker Mule for new branding stickers. As a result, there's a huge local opportunity for you – to produce stickers for OTHER businesses! But how do you make custom stickers for small business? In this blog post, we'll walk you through the process!
Whether small businesses around you need custom labels for their wine bottles, custom stickers for giveaways, or something else entirely, chances are that you can provide them with the stickers they need. If you've been in the sticker business for any length of time, you know how easy it is to produce cut to size stickers, round stickers, and even custom sizes in small batches. This makes you – NOT your online competition – the perfect provider for a company logo or other small business logo project.
So, what are the steps for creating your business-to-business (B2B) adventure? There are TONS of ways that you can go about it, but ultimately, it comes down to marketing. How are you going to reach those small businesses who need a professional look?
Step One: Develop A Marketing Plan And Identify “Targets” To Visit
There are many ways to reach out and let small businesses know about your printing and design services. You could start by creating a simple website that outlines what you do, and then use social media or even good old-fashioned word of mouth to get the word out. You could also consider advertising in local publications or on websites that are popular with small businesses.
You can even just go door to door with samples of your custom stickers. Or, even better – print stickers of THEIR logo and bring it to them as an example of what you can do. And remember – small business is about relationships, not volume. The top sellers locally are going to be those folks who are able to network and make friends – and different stickers – with loads of different audiences.
Use targeted outreach
If you're not sure about whether or not there's enough business to support you, make a list. Use Google Maps, Yelp, and other local resources to identify small businesses that might have an interest in having their own design on a sticker.
You'll want to spend more time on the mom and pop shops than you would on franchises, because franchises (like McDonalds) often have strict rules about brand identity. As a result, those owners and managers can't purchase from local sellers. Shop your time wisely, and you'll be rewarded.
Step Two: Bring or produce samples
Bring an informational sheet to each visit that explains what you sell and how much it costs. Make sure it includes your contact information too! If you want a personal touch, bring a permanent marker to add your information after talking to them. Here are some things to consider:
- Do you offer roll stickers, or just by the sheet?
- Do you do cut to size stickers, or only standard shapes?
- Can you provide high gloss or waterproof stickers for product labels?
- Can you do a run of black and white roll labels using a thermal printer?
- Do you offer unique shapes for any extra cost?
- Do you have an online calculator or price estimator tool?
- Are your stickers tear proof?
- Do you offer discounts for standard oval shapes or circle shapes?
- Are your stickers able to be water resistant or stand up against outdoor exposure?
Step Three: Deliver on your promises
If you have a special intro deal where you're offering stickers at a reduced cost, be sure to wow your customer to keep them coming back. If you're just getting started, consider giving away free stickers to local businesses in exchange for permission to put your company information on their products or store windows.
Also, don't forget that it's not all about the sticker. The application process is important too! If you can provide tips or even a video tutorial on how to store, apply, or sell the stickers, your customers will be left happy AND wanting more.
P.S. – I ALWAYS include at least 1-2 bonus stickers, and you should too. It's a kind thing to do, and barely costs any additional money.
