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Generating sales can be especially challenging during a downward economy. How can you boost your business without breaking the bank? Using promotional cards can be a cost-effective way to market your business and provide your customers an incentive to shop.

It’s easy and affordable to make your own professional-looking promotional cards right from your desktop with Avery Clean Edge^® Business Cards and the free Avery Design & Print Online software. Create your own custom design or select a pre-designed template to help get you started. You can print as many cards as you need, or change your design at any time. For a little inspiration, take a look at these ideas:

To reward loyal customers

Taking care of your current customers can be worth the payoff. The 80-20 Rule, or Pareto Principle, is a common rule of thumb in business that states 20% of your customers are responsible for 80% of your business. By rewarding your loyal customers, they can reward you back.

- Thank you. Give out cards that can be redeemed for a discount, free gift or service upgrade as a simple “thank you” to your loyal customers who frequent your business.

- VIP membership. Make your customers feel special with a VIP membership card to give them exclusive access into private sales, special discounts, complimentary consultations and more.

To earn repeat business

Let your customers know how much you appreciate them and take the time to get to know them better. Creating customized promotions with a personal touch can help you build a relationship with your customers. - Gift card. Make your customers feel special by sending them a gift card to your store to mark special occasions such as their birthdays or anniversaries. - Appointment reminders. While customers are still at your place of business, encourage them to pre-book their next appointment before they leave. Keep their best interests in mind, such as making sure they’re guaranteed a time that fits their schedule best. And when they pre-book, let them take advantage of an advanced booking discount.

- Good on your next visit. Give your customers a promotional offer they can redeem on their next visit good for their favorite products or services, providing them a reason to return. Use these cards to generate sales and increase traffic at a time when business might be slow.

To encourage customers to spend more Promotions that spotlight value can make customers feel they are getting a good deal because of their smart purchasing decisions. - Earn points or rewards. These rewards cards can encourage customers to come back for repeat visits and make frequent purchases. Mark their card after each purchase, then reward the customer with a gift or discount when the card is filled. - Upsell. Give your customers a reason to choose select items or services that may be considered more expensive by including a free upgrade to create a better value. This can make the customer feel better about their purchase.

- Buy one, get one half off. Get customers to stock up on their favorite items by offering the second item at half the price.

To attract new customers

Customer referrals and low-risk trials are ways you can invite new customers to give your business a try. Creating an exceptional customer experience can give them a reason to come back. - Tell a friend. One of the best ways to advertise your business is through word-of-mouth. Distribute these tell-a-friend cards to your current clients and encourage them to invite a friend to try out your business. In return, give your client and their friend a discount. - New client discount. Give your new customers an opportunity to try out your business without paying full price with an offer such as, “50% off services for new clients.”

Once you’ve created your promotional cards, send out a mailer to all your current customers. In your mailer, announce your special promotion or event and include your card. Then give your mailer that professional touch with a custom label you can create using Avery White Easy Peel^® Address Labels and the free Avery Wizard software for Microsoft^® Office. When you need to pump up your business on a budget, using promotional cards can give your customers a little “push” toward your business.

Tip: Want to increase the chances of getting your mailer opened? Entice your customers with a callout message such as “Special Offer Inside,” attached to the outside of the envelope using Avery Clear Easy Peel Address Labels. Our Clear Labels virtually disappear onto the surface when applied giving your mailing piece a neat, clean look. Your customers won’t be able to resist what they’ll find inside!