Stickers as Marketing Part II

Here’s part one, in case you missed it. We covered the “why they work” and “when to use them” plus a few tips; now let’s take things a step further. Let’s touch on the design process and highlight additional ways stickers can be used to promote your business. 

Cellcom sticker, doubles as a screen cleaner

Cross Marketing

Stickers can be used for cross marketing or friendship marketing. Let’s say a web designer is handing out stickers at an expo. Perhaps the backside could reference my website as a content writer for their new site. In exchange I could pay for the promotion or trade by linking to them from my next newsletter.

Beyond Redline, sticker decal on car windshield

Design

Stickers, as we discussed previously, are not simple swag or items to stock the office supply closet. Stickers need to align with your overall marketing strategy and brand image. Promotional sticker designs need to be approved by sales and marketing personnel.

Meriwether, band sticker

First, a company will need to decide if they’re going to do the design in-house, work with a freelancer, or hire an ad agency. Yes, you could work directly with the company you’re purchasing from, if they have designers. But remember, their primary objective is to sell product, not necessarily considering your marketing objectives.

When choosing a company to create and print your stickers, ask them what they suggest to make your sticker a marketing medium. Ask if they have designers, copywriters, and will suggest cost-saving tips. Ask for samples. Ask about guarantees. Inquire about order sizes that will meet your needs. You’ll want to check on materials and ink quality. Find out what sizes and shapes are considered stock and which are special order. Find out if you will be charged extra for copy/design changes, shipping, die changes, etc.

 

Distribution

Now that you have them; give them away! Include in mailings; give them out with your business cards. Ask friends and employees to display the stickers and hand them out.

 

Alternatives

In addition to traditional stickers consider plastic or foil stickers. Plastic is highly durable. Foil is very eye-catching. Window clings or removable stickers are great for glass, windows, doors, and many other applications. Temporary tattoos can be fun, too.

Show me your stickers! I want to know what stickers you’ve held on to. Do you have them on your car? In the garage? Your closet? Laptop? Please share in the comments below.