Postcards have become one of the easiest and cheapest direct mail pieces because of the design software and program support available. Many companies are designing their own marketing literature by taking advantage of the design tips available through books, online articles, and blogs. After researching advice on color use, headlines, layout, and more, sometimes the vast amount of information can bog down the creative juices. Below are some ideas for postcard printing that may help jump start your unique design.

The Front is Back

Move away from conventional postcard layouts by using the address side of the postcard for the attention-getting information. This can actually be a very effective design because most mail carriers deliver the mail address-side-up. When prospects are shuffling through their mail, they will see your catchy headline, benefits, and call to action without needing to flip over the postcard. Use the reverse side for extra information, helpful tidbits, or consumer reviews.

Unavoidable News

Instead of sending a conventional newsletter, create a postcard newsletter for increasing readability. Who has time to read a full-sized newsletter anyway? Now your clients can skim through the information while walking from the mailbox to the front door. An oversized postcard has plenty of space for a few short articles, a bulleted list of tips, a quotation, your contact information, a call to action, and a nameplate, not to mention the necessary mailing information. The key is to be very precise with your words.

Ticket to the Good Life

Double your postcards as a ticket to an event, such as an open house or customer appreciation cookout. Make the customer feel important by incorporating such phrases as "VIP Guest" and explaining what their special status will get them when they attend the activity.

Hang Around a While Longer

Most postcards have a short lifespan. Once clients skim the information, they usually throw the postcard away and often forget about your company until the next round of mailouts. Design a mini-calendar imprinted with your logo for a postcard that continues to promote your company long after the customer is finished reading the information. Stick with 3 or 6 month calendars for readability purposes.

Although you do need to be consistent with your image, avoid using the same layout for every postcard. Consumers are attracted to businesses that have the ability to be at the forefront of new ideas. So change your postcard printing every so often for a direct mail campaign that remains fresh and exciting.