How to design a great direct mail postcard.

Direct mail postcards are a terrific way to market your business and can help you dramatically increase prospects, customers & revenue. But great direct mail pieces do not come so quickly. Chicago Fulfillment Services has created a step-by-step list that will help you make an effective way to design a direct mail postcard. Before discussing the differences in the postcard design elements you should consider, you need to understand your goals. Sure, you could hire a designer, but they will need some direction from you.

Direct mail postcards are really a giant billboard in your mailbox. Your billboard isn’t alone. In reality, there are usually several billboards lined up in your mailbox (but still better than the 75 emails that land in your inbox). In either scenario, only the very best ad will stand out. Right? The same is true when it comes to your direct mail postcard. As mentioned above, every day, numerous advertisements arrive right in your potential customer’s hand, but only the best ads stand out and receive attention. Below you will find out how to make your direct mail postcard be one of those special few. But to create it, you’ll need to utilize the proven design strategies listed below.

Use a design that pops.

Images make or break your direct mail postcard campaign. What’s going to make someone take notice? A dull and boring appearance? Or something bold, engaging, and something the recipient can relate to? To create an image that stands out, use color and shading to highlight critical areas/features. Just remember that bold images/designs are a great way to make your direct mail postcard stand out, but they should also be a part of your brand and the theme of your campaign in one way or another.

A Few Design Elements to Consider:

• Words that persuade
• Images
• Taglines
• Size
• Shape
• Color
• Shading

LESS IS MORE

You want people to understand your brand, but when mailing a direct mail postcard, the more text you add, the more cluttered the postcard message becomes. Emphasis should be on your getting attention:

• Attention-grabbing headline.
• The offer.
• A call to action.

Ask the right questions, then provide simple solutions. You’ll be amazed at just how much could be said; a few words together with the correct design elements can tell a much better story than a poorly designed, wordy postcard.

A Few Design Elements to Consider:

• Typefaces
• Colors
• Patterns

KEEP IT CLUTTER FREE

The best design combines bold statements and eye-catching images without creating clutter. Don’t hesitate to include white space on your postcard; it gives the design room to breathe and makes the perfect balance between beauty and simplicity.

BIGGER IS BETTER

You don’t want your postcard to get lost in a pile of mail. Do you want it to get lost or to compete in your mailbox? You can help your postcard stand out by making it a little bigger than average. Or experiment with unique designs. Just make sure it complies with postal regulations and can be easily produced. You can use tons of options to customize your direct mail postcard; make sure the ones you choose are cost-effective options.

FOCUS ON THE OFFER

Time and again – We see direct mail clients spend tons of time creating the perfect direct mail piece that aligns with their brand only to place their offer at the bottom of the card. The truth is that your direct mail offer should be at the forefront, not a last-minute addition; your postcard should be built around your entire concept. So remember, if you want to get a solid and positive response, you’ve got to focus on the offer from the start.

QUALITY PRINTING MATTERS

There are many different paper weights, options, colors, etc. The printing choices you select will impact the look and feel of your postcard. These choices can also convey a message about your brand to an audience who is unfamiliar with your company. For example, heavier card stock with a nice coated finish often sends a more professional message.

Designing your perfect direct mail postcard isn’t as difficult as it may sound. To save money and achieve the best results, always use an industry expert to print and mail your direct mail postcards. For more information about printing and mailing direct mail postcards, Call Chicago Fulfillment Services at 773-657-9400