• When you write, put yourself in the reader's shoes; what would he or she want to know about your business?
  
  
• Use "styles" to make formatting much simpler (and faster) in your word processing documents.
  
  
• Create a "template" (.dot) for each of your frequently-used Word forms to make sure your documents look consistent each time you use them.
  
  
• Use your logo consistently on all your printed materials, forms and web site.
  
  
• Make sure to put contact information (phone, email, web address, etc.) in a prominent place throughout your materials and web site.
  
  
• Ask current clients/customers to review your marketing materials and give you feedback.
  
  
• If you plan to use your printed folders for a long time, don't put your address or phone number on them. If you move (or maybe get assigned a new area code), you can keep using the folders and you won't have to throw them out.
  
  
• Explain the benefits a client/customer will gain from using your business (rather than just listing what you do).
  
  
• Design your documents to have a consistent look—from your web site all the way down to your business forms.
  
  
• Limit yourself to two or three fonts and use them consistently throughout all your documents.
  
  
• Leave some "white space" on your documents rather than cramming every available inch with text or graphics.
  
  
• If you use clip art, choose images that share a similar look.
  
  
• Do an inexpensive postcard mailing to stir up some business.
  
  
• Use a spelling and grammar checker! Poor spelling or grammar can make people doubt your capabilities.
  
  
• Keep text as brief as possible on a web site. If necessary, break the text into multiple pages with more links rather than using long, scrolling pages.
  
  
• Include useful information in your web site in addition to "tooting your horn." People are more likely to remember and return to your site if you give information that is useful to them (links, tips, calculators, resources, etc.).
  
  
• Use bullets and subheadings to break text into small, manageable sections that are easy to skim.
  

The Idea Pages Newsletter
Each issue gives helpful advice and info on a specific topic related to marketing, writing or design.

Here’s How
Hands-on lessons and tips for software, design, writing and other neat-o stuff.

Resources
Where to find clipart/photos, cool papers, “how-to” books/magazines, software/hardware overviews and other useful info (including my opinions!).