DMJ 1 on 1: What Are All These Charges on Branded Merch?

Each week on DMJ 1 on 1, Kirby Hasseman takes on a different topic to help provide value to those looking to grow a brand or organization.  This time Kirby tackles the question everyone has been asking.  “What are all these charges on Branded Merch?”  Have you ever been confused or frustrated by your invoice after purchasing branded merch?  Then this episode is for you!  Watch now…and feel free to read below.

DMJ 1 on 1: What Are All These Charges on Branded Merch?

The world of branded merchandise can be a labyrinth of extra charges and hidden fees. It’s a common experience for clients to receive an invoice that’s significantly higher than the initial quote, leading to confusion and frustration. Today we set out to demystify the pricing structure of branded merchandise and educate viewers on the various charges associated with it.

The video acknowledges the complexity of the pricing structure in the branded merchandise industry. It explains that these extra charges are often necessary for suppliers to compete on price in the industry.  The goal of the video and this article is to provide insight into the pricing structure of branded merchandise and educate viewers about the extra charges associated with it.

Screen Charges

Screen charges are fees associated with creating physical screens for screen printing. These charges are necessary for each color used in the design. This means that a design with multiple colors will have multiple screen charges. Suppliers often save screens for up to two years, which can save on costs for repeat orders. However, screen charges can significantly impact the cost of branded merchandise, especially for small orders or designs with multiple colors.

While these charges may seem excessive, they are a necessary part of the screen printing process. The creation of screens involves labor and materials, and these costs need to be covered. Understanding this can help clients make informed decisions about their design and color choices.

Setup Fees

Setup fees are another common charge in the branded merchandise industry. These fees cover the time and labor required to set up machines and prepare for printing. Setup fees are common in digital printing and other printing methods that don’t require physical screens. Repeat setup fees may be charged for subsequent orders of the same design. These fees help suppliers cover the cost of labor and maintain competitive pricing.

Run Charges

Run charges are additional fees for running the job multiple times or in different locations. These charges may apply when printing multiple colors or printing in different areas of the product. Additional run charges can increase the overall cost of the order, especially for small quantities or complex designs.

Embroidery Charges

Embroidery charges are associated with creating digital files and setting up embroidery machines. A DST file is used to guide the sewing machine and ensure accurate embroidery. Embroidery charges are typically a one-time fee unless modifications to the design are requested. Keeping the art consistent can help avoid additional charges.

Art Charges

Art charges may apply when the provided artwork needs to be converted to a vector or camera-ready format. Vector art ensures that the design remains clear and doesn’t pixelate when resized. Art charges can be avoided by providing high-quality vector art. However, suppliers may need to clean up or modify artwork, resulting in additional charges.

Proof Charges

Proof charges are fees for reviewing and approving artwork before production. Proof charges act as an insurance policy to ensure the correct artwork is used. Some suppliers may charge proof fees, while others may not. As Kirby mentioned in the video, this charge can be a source of frustration for distributors and clients.  But these charges have been created by using the supplier as the “art department” and requesting multiple proofs on every order.  Implementing a system of one free proof could encourage better artwork preparation.

Less Than Minimum Charges

Less than minimum charges are fees for ordering quantities below the supplier’s minimum requirement. Suppliers may charge less than minimum fees to compensate for the inconvenience of producing smaller quantities. These charges cover the cost of handling and storing excess inventory.

PMS Color Match Charges

PMS color match charges are fees for matching specific colors using the Pantone Matching System. PMS color match ensures precise color reproduction for brands with specific color requirements. Matching colors accurately may require additional time and effort, resulting in extra charges.  This fee will be charged for each color that needs to be specifically matched.

Shipping Charges

Shipping charges cover the cost of delivering the branded merchandise to the client. Shipping charges are necessary when products need to be shipped across the United States. Suppliers may include shipping charges in the overall pricing or list them separately. Considering shipping options and planning ahead can help mitigate shipping charges.  But make no mistake, no distributor has the space to house the (over) 1 million promotional products for sale.  So there will be a cost of shipping to deliver your order.

Conclusion

The world of branded merchandise can be a labyrinth of extra charges and hidden fees. However, understanding these charges can help clients make informed decisions and avoid surprises on the invoice. The goal of this article is to educate viewers about the extra charges associated with branded merchandise and provide insight into the pricing structure of the industry.

Remember, it’s always a good idea to ask for all charges upfront. This can help avoid surprises on the invoice and ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money. So the next time you’re ordering branded merchandise, don’t be afraid to ask questions and get the information you need.

We hope you are getting lots of value out of these DMJ 1 on 1’s!  You can find all of the content we create on our blog page here.  And if you want to create a marketing campaign that truly Hits The TARGET, check our FREE TARGET Marketing Playbook here.

 

Lessons from DMJ: Joey Coleman on How To NEVER Lose A Customer Again

Delivering Marketing Joy is an award-winning interview show that helps marketers level up.  Each week, Kirby Hasseman interviews the best and brightest minds in marketing to help you level up.  This time on Lessons from DMJ, Kirby talks with Joey Coleman about how to never lose a customer again.  Watch now!

In this insightful discussion, Kirby Hasseman interviews Joey Coleman, the renowned author of “Never Lose a Customer Again.” The conversation centers on the crucial aspect of customer retention, an area often overlooked by businesses. The focus of many companies is predominantly on acquiring new customers, with less attention given to maintaining existing ones. However, Coleman asserts that a shift in mindset is necessary to concentrate on what happens post-sale, which is equally, if not more, important.

Throughout the conversation, Coleman provides a wealth of knowledge and practical advice on how businesses can improve their customer retention strategies. He delves into the reasons why businesses focus more on acquisition, the importance of customer retention, philosophical and practical approaches to customer retention, the concept of secondary customers, and practical tips for improving customer retention. He also emphasizes the significance of naming processes and using language that resonates with customers. This article aims to encapsulate the main points of this enlightening discussion.

Why Businesses Focus on Acquisition

Joey Coleman begins by explaining the biological and operational reasons for businesses’ focus on acquiring new customers. Humans are biologically predisposed to seek new experiences and novelty, a trait that often translates into business operations. This predisposition is further reinforced by the operational structure of organizations, which are often led by CEOs with marketing or sales backgrounds. These leaders naturally lean towards strategies that involve acquiring new customers, as this is their area of expertise.

However, Coleman suggests that this focus on acquisition often comes at the expense of customer retention. While acquiring new customers is important for business growth, retaining existing customers is equally crucial for sustainability. He argues that businesses need to strike a balance between these two aspects to ensure long-term success.

The Importance of Customer Retention

Emphasizing the importance of customer retention, Coleman points out that between 20-70% of new customers stop doing business within the first 100 days. This startling statistic highlights the need for businesses to focus on delivering a remarkable customer experience at every step of the customer journey. By keeping customers, businesses can increase revenues, profits, and retention.

He also stresses the importance of critically analyzing each step in the customer journey. By understanding the customer’s experience at each stage, businesses can identify areas for improvement and take the necessary steps to enhance their service. This not only improves customer satisfaction but also increases the likelihood of customer retention.

Philosophical and Practical Approaches to Customer Retention

Delving into the philosophical and practical aspects of improving customer retention, Coleman discusses the need for businesses to be aware of what happens after the sale. This involves mapping the customer journey to identify areas for improvement and delivering a remarkable experience consistently. By paying attention to the post-sale experience, businesses can ensure that customers remain satisfied and continue to do business with them.

He also provides practical tips on how to improve customer retention. This includes systematizing follow-up and project success reviews, using language that resonates with customers, and delivering a remarkable experience at every stage of the customer journey. By implementing these strategies, businesses can significantly improve their customer retention rates.

The Concept of Secondary Customers

One of the unique concepts that Coleman introduces is the idea of secondary customers. These are the people affected by the decision or involved in the process, but not necessarily the decision makers. By serving these secondary customers, businesses can enhance their customer retention strategies.

Examples of secondary customers in the promotional product space include the recipients of the promotional products, the people involved in the purchasing process, and the people who interact with the promotional products. By serving these secondary customers, businesses can create a positive experience for all involved, leading to long-term retention.

Practical Tips for Improving Customer Retention

Throughout the discussion, Coleman provides a range of practical tips for improving customer retention. This includes mapping the customer journey to identify gaps and areas for improvement, systematizing follow-up and project success reviews, and using language that resonates with customers. By implementing these strategies, businesses can significantly improve their customer retention rates.

He also emphasizes the importance of using language that resonates with customers. This involves using terms and phrases that align with customer expectations and convey the value of the product or service. By using language that resonates with customers, businesses can enhance their customer experience and increase retention.

The Significance of Naming Processes

One of the key points that Coleman highlights is the importance of naming processes. He suggests that the language used to describe processes should align with customer expectations. For example, renaming follow-up to project success review can create a more positive perception of the process and demonstrate a commitment to constant improvement.

By naming processes in a way that resonates with customers, businesses can build trust and demonstrate their commitment to delivering a remarkable customer experience. This not only enhances the customer experience but also increases the likelihood of customer retention.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Joey Coleman encourages businesses to constantly strive for improvement and to serve their customers and employees in a remarkable way. He suggests that by focusing on customer retention and delivering a remarkable customer experience at every stage of the customer journey, businesses can achieve long-term success.

Thanks for learning from the latest “Lessons from DMJ” with Joey Coleman.  You can find all of the content we create on our blog page here.  And if you want to create a marketing campaign that truly Hits The TARGET, check our FREE TARGET Marketing Playbook here.

DMJ 1 on 1: 5 Must-Haves for a Health & Wellness Program

Each week on DMJ 1 on 1, Kirby Hasseman takes on a different topic to help provide value to those looking to grow a brand or organization.  Unveiling our latest video, DMJ 1 on 1: The 5 Must-Haves For a Health & Wellness Program. Submerge yourself into the critical components required to craft a triumphant health and wellness program within your organization.  Watch now…and dig in below.

The latest DMJ 1 on 1 brings to light five essential components for a health and wellness program to have a significant impact. Kirby shares this involvement in health and wellness programs through their work in communications and branded merch. They highlight the financial benefits of implementing a health and wellness program, such as lower medical costs and reduced absenteeism. This article will delve into these five must-haves and explain why they are critical for the success of any health and wellness program.

These five components are an enrollment plan, a design plan, a merch plan, a communication plan, and an exercise plan. Each of these plays a unique role in ensuring the effectiveness and success of a health and wellness program. They not only help in engaging the participants but also ensure that the program is aligned with the organization’s brand guidelines, thereby creating a unique identity for the program. Let’s explore each of these components in detail.

Enrollment Plan

The first must-have for a successful health and wellness program is an effective enrollment plan. This plan is crucial to ensure active participation and engagement in the program. It’s not enough to just have a program in place; it’s equally important to create excitement and engagement around it. This can be achieved through effective communication and marketing strategies.

One of the ways to generate interest and encourage sign-ups is by utilizing email scripts, videos, and CEO involvement. A multi-step enrollment process can also be implemented to increase engagement and commitment. This process can help in creating a sense of ownership among the participants, thereby increasing their commitment to the program.

Design Plan

Next up is the design plan. It’s recommended to have a design plan that aligns with the organization’s brand guidelines but is unique to the health and wellness program. This helps in creating a distinct identity for the program, which can encourage self-identification and accountability among participants.

It’s important to get buy-in from the marketing team to ensure the consistency and effectiveness of the design plan. A well-thought-out design plan can not only reflect the brand guidelines but also distinguish the health and wellness program from other initiatives of the organization.

Merch Plan

A merch plan is another essential component of a health and wellness program. It’s important to provide quality and appealing merchandise that aligns with the program’s goals and values. This can serve as a motivation for the participants and encourage them to actively participate in the program.

Consider having a strategic merch release plan to maintain participant engagement and motivation. Also, it’s advisable to pre-plan and order merchandise in advance to ensure timely delivery and avoid last-minute stress. This can help in keeping the participants excited and engaged throughout the program.

Communication Plan

A communication plan is crucial to regularly engage and inspire participants. This can include daily or weekly communication via email, text, or a company app. Consistent communication is key to motivate and educate participants about the program and its benefits.

Various communication channels can be utilized to reach participants effectively. It’s also important to incorporate mental health components into the communication plan to address holistic well-being. This can help in creating a comprehensive health and wellness program that caters to the physical as well as mental health of the participants.

Exercise Plan

Last but not least, an exercise plan is necessary for a successful health and wellness program. This plan should provide information and options for different types of exercise, including meditation and workouts at the workstation. Offering exercise resources and guidance can empower participants to take control of their fitness and mental health.

The exercise plan should include options for various exercise types, such as meditation, yoga, and workouts that can be done at the workstation. It’s important to ensure that the exercise plan is attainable and adaptable to accommodate participants’ different schedules and work environments. This can help in making the program more inclusive and effective.

Conclusion

The fact is, most health and wellness programs lack all five of these components. However, having them can significantly impact the program’s effectiveness. By incorporating these five must-haves, organizations can create a comprehensive and effective health and wellness program that not only benefits the participants but also contributes to the organization’s overall success.

Want to learn more about the Hasseman Marketing Total Wellness program?  You can find more information on how we can help with all 5 of these elements here.

DMJ 1 on 1: Answering Questions From The Audience

Each week on DMJ 1 on 1, Kirby Hasseman takes on a different topic to help provide value to those looking to grow a brand or organization.  Recently, he talked about 4 Things To Stop Doing On Social Media in 2024.  That episode spurred a lot of engagement and questions from the audience…and today he gives in and answers some questions from the audience!

This time on DMJ 1 on 1, Kirby addresses a range of questions from the audience, all centered around the key theme of content marketing. The discussion covers a broad spectrum of topics, from leveraging customer questions for content creation to the delicate balance of sales and value on social media. Kirby also shares his views on LinkedIn sales services and provides guidance on choosing the right social media platform and posting frequency. Finally, the conversation concludes with a discussion on the long-term commitment required for successful content marketing.

Using Customer Questions for Content Creation

To start, Kirby encourages using customer questions as a resource for content creation. He suggests writing down the 10 questions you get all the time and starting by answering those questions. This strategy not only helps in creating relevant content but also ensures that the content addresses the needs and concerns of the audience.

Moreover, Kirby emphasizes the importance of keeping your eyes and ears open for feedback, pushback, or follow-up questions to create new content. He believes that listening to customer questions helps clarify and expand upon existing content, thereby making it more comprehensive and useful for the audience.

Balancing Sales and Value on Social Media

One concern is being “too salesy.”  Kirby addresses concerns about being too salesy on social media and suggests a ratio of providing value to asking for a sale. He believes that constantly selling on social media can be a mistake; instead, the focus should be on providing value. He suggests a 3:1 or 4:1 ratio of providing value to asking for a sale. Building trust and giving more than asking is important in the “give first economy.” This approach not only helps in building a loyal customer base but also ensures that the customers see value in the content and are more likely to engage with it.

Negative Impact of LinkedIn Sales Services

But what about “done for you” sales packages on LinkedIn?  Kirby expresses dislike for LinkedIn sales services and recommends personal research and connection building instead. He believes that LinkedIn sales services are overdone and ruin the platform. He suggests that building trust and relationships requires personal effort and research.

Moreover, content creators should share strategies and not worry about others copying their strategies. He believes that copying strategies and sharing content among content creators is beneficial and can lead to the creation of more diverse and engaging content.

Choosing the Right Social Media Platform and Posting Frequency

Kirby also discusses the importance of choosing the right platform and frequency of posting based on the target audience. He suggests identifying the social media platform where the target audience spends the most time. Starting with one platform can be less overwhelming for beginners.

Furthermore, he emphasizes that the posting frequency should be as often as possible while maintaining good quality content. He believes that creating high-quality content consistently can help build a loyal audience and enhance brand visibility.

Long-Term Commitment to Content Marketing

“It’s a long-term game.”  Kirby emphasizes the long-term commitment required for content marketing and the importance of building brand awareness and trust. He suggests that content creators should commit to at least 12 to 18 months for content marketing strategy.

Content marketing is a long-term play for building brand awareness and trust. Content creators should focus on providing value and creating top-of-mind awareness. This approach not only helps in building a strong brand but also ensures that the audience sees value in the content and is more likely to engage with it.

Conclusion

What do you want to ask?  Now is a great time to reach out with questions for future episodes.  And if you are getting value, please feel free to subscribe and rate the podcast!

We hope you are getting lots of value out of these DMJ 1 on 1’s!  You can find all of the content we create on our blog page here.  And if you want to create a marketing campaign that truly Hits The TARGET, check our FREE TARGET Marketing Playbook here.

Thirsty Thursday – It’s either Floor Cleaner or Porch Stain

You know what time it is!  It’s time for Thirsty Thursday! Thirsty Thursday is the award-winning piece of content from Hasseman Marketing where we take a mystery drink out of a piece of branded drinkware! Be careful…it’s not for everyone. This week we feature the 17 oz watercolor drip ceramic mug from Bel Promo.  It’s a fun one.  Get ready to giggle…and be jealous of this new piece of drinkware.  Watch now!

Branded Drinkware from Bel Promo

Our drinkware for today’s episode is a 17 oz watercolor drip ceramic mug from Bel Promo. This mug is not just a vessel for your favorite beverage, but a piece of art in itself. The watercolor drip design gives it a unique and appealing look, making it a standout piece on any table or desk.

What’s great about this mug is its affordability coupled with its high perceived value. It’s a quality product that doesn’t break the bank, making it an excellent choice for businesses looking to impress their clients or employees. We’ve also noticed a fun trend of adding quirky imprints on these mugs, adding a touch of personality to the corporate branding. It’s a small detail that can make a big difference in how your brand is perceived.  To learn more… head to our shop here.

Tasting the Mystery Drink

Now, let’s move on to the exciting part of the show – tasting the mystery drink. We’ve poured the drink into our Bel Promo mugs and are ready to take our first sip. The initial reaction is a mix of surprise and intrigue. The flavor is complex and hard to pin down, with a sweet and salty undertone that leaves us wanting more.

As we continue to sip, we start making guesses about the type of the drink. Is it a craft beer with a unique flavor profile? Or perhaps a flavored coffee with a twist? The suspense is part of the fun, and we’re all eager to find out what this mystery drink is.

Revealing the Mystery Drink

And now, the moment we’ve all been waiting for – the revelation of the mystery drink. It turns out to be a salted caramel coffee ale, a unique blend that combines the best of both worlds. The initial sweetness of the caramel is balanced by the bitterness of the coffee, with a hint of saltiness that adds an extra layer of complexity.

Our final thoughts on the drink are mixed. Some of us love the unique flavor combination, while others find it a bit too adventurous. But regardless of our opinions on the drink, we all agree on one thing – the quality of the Bel Promo mug has significantly enhanced our tasting experience.

Conclusion

As we wrap up this episode of Thirsty Thursday, we can’t help but praise the quality of the Bel Promo mug once again. Its unique design, high perceived value, and affordability make it a great gift for customers or as a room gift. It’s a product that people will use daily, keeping your brand at the forefront of their minds.

Here’s a big thank you to our viewers for tuning in. We hope you enjoyed this episode of Thirsty Thursday as much as we did. Until next time, stay thirsty!

Each Thirsty Thursday, we feature a cool piece of branded drinkware.  To learn more… head to our shop here.

Thanks for watching!  Again, purchase for your team here…or contact your Hasseman Marketing team member.

Hasseman Marketing is your one-stop marketing shop.  We work hard to “Deliver #MarketingJoy to you.  Oh…and we want to make sure you hit the TARGET in your marketing.  If you want to learn now, check out our TARGET marketing playbook here for FREE!

4 Tips To Create A Successful 2024

In January, Kirby was asked to speak at PPAI Live about 4 Tips To Creating a Successful 2024.  In this DMJ 1 on 1, we go LIVE to the PPAI Expo from the show floor.  Watch now!

As we approach the new year, it’s time to start thinking about how we can make 2024 the most successful year yet. In this blog, we’ll be discussing four key tips that can help you achieve just that. These tips are not just about setting goals, but also about maintaining a positive mindset, continuously learning and growing, and prioritizing deep work. So, let’s dive right in and start planning for a successful 2024.

Be Intentional and Set Goals

The first tip for creating a successful 2024 is to be intentional and set goals. Setting goals is a crucial step toward success. It gives you a clear direction and helps you stay focused on your path. But remember, these goals should be deeply personal. They should resonate with your values and aspirations.

Consider setting goals in five key areas of your life: Finance, Fitness, Family, Faith, and Fun. By setting goals in these areas, you ensure a balanced approach to your life. You might also want to consider setting shorter time frame goals, such as 12-week year goals. This can help you stay motivated and see progress more quickly.

Be Positive and Practice Gratitude

The second tip for a successful 2024 is to maintain a positive attitude and practice gratitude. Positivity can significantly improve your performance, especially in stressful situations. It helps you stay calm, focused, and resilient. But how can you boost your positivity? One effective way is through gratitude exercises.

Gratitude exercises can help shift your mindset to a more positive state. They can help you focus on the good in your life, leading to more things to be grateful for. So, start your day by listing three things you’re grateful for, and see the difference it makes in your life.

Continuously Learn, Grow, and Change

The third tip for a successful 2024 is to continuously learn, grow, and change. Personal growth is a lifelong journey, and investing in your personal development can lead to significant improvements in your life. One way to do this is by reading books and investing in education.

Look for opportunities to learn and grow, such as online courses and certifications. Avoid living the same experiences over and over again. Instead, seek new experiences, learn new skills, and embrace change. This will not only make your life more interesting but also help you grow as a person.

Prioritize Deep Work and Avoid Multitasking

The fourth and final tip for a successful 2024 is to prioritize deep work and avoid multitasking. Despite popular belief, multitasking is a myth. It can hinder deep work and lead to decreased productivity and focus. Instead, focus on one task at a time for better results.

Batching activities can also improve your productivity and effectiveness. This involves grouping similar tasks together and doing them in one go. This can help you stay focused and reduce the time wasted on switching between tasks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, creating a successful 2024 involves being intentional and setting goals, maintaining a positive mindset and practicing gratitude, continuously learning and growing, and prioritizing deep work. By following these four tips, you can make 2024 your most successful year yet. So, start planning now and make the most of the coming year.

We hope you are getting lots of value out of these DMJ 1 on 1’s!  You can find all of the content we create on our blog page here.  And if you want to create a marketing campaign that truly Hits The TARGET, check our FREE TARGET Marketing Playbook here.