Get the Facts about Campaign Materials
When you were a child, your parents probably told you that if you don't know the answer to something, just ask. Your new employer probably told you this very same thing on your first day of work. Well, this is a simple though that political candidates need to remember when they are purchasing their campaign materials.
I have been helping political candidates order printed political materials for over 8 years. I have heard all the questions, endured the frustrations on the other end of the phone and calmed and consoled hundreds of political candidates. The task of ordering your campaign materials doesn't have to be unnerving or exhausting. There are basic questions you need to ask the printer. Jot down these FAQs.
-What type of yard sign will work best for me?
There are a few main types of campaign signs. They vary in size, shape, durability and of course, price. One material may be better for large quantities. One may be a short-term sign. Ask your printer to run down the differences between the materials he offers.
-What is the production time?
The political cycle has seasons–a busy season and a slow season. The political printing industry is obviously tied to the election cycle. Candidates all order their materials at the same time, so printing presses can get backed up. So, it is important to ask your printer how long it will take for you to receive the materials you order. Candidates often assume production times based on when they need their materials.
-If I order all of my products from you, can I get a discount?
Buying in bulk, so to speak, comes with perks. You should always try to get a better deal if you order multiple products from one source—campaign signs, brochures, t-shirts, etc. You will be motivated and so will the printer. Ask for a campaign package deal. campaign package
-Are there any set-up fees?
Do you know anybody who likes to be "nickel and dimed?" Not likely. Find out up front what all the additional fees will be—set-up charges, color matches, artwork fees, etc.
-Can I pay with a check?
This question may seem unnecessary. However, there are many printing companies that will not take a check. Or, maybe they will, but they require that the check be in their hands before your order is processed. If you don't know this and assume your order has been placed, you may be in for an unfortunate surprise when you find out your order was delayed a week because you didn't send a check right away.
These questions are important. Ask these questions right out of the gate. Don't waste 15 minutes talking with a company just to find out it will take 3 weeks to print your t-shirts and you are being charged a $50 handling fee and $100 for design assistance.
I have been helping political candidates order printed political materials for over 8 years. I have heard all the questions, endured the frustrations on the other end of the phone and calmed and consoled hundreds of political candidates. The task of ordering your campaign materials doesn't have to be unnerving or exhausting. There are basic questions you need to ask the printer. Jot down these FAQs.
-What type of yard sign will work best for me?
There are a few main types of campaign signs. They vary in size, shape, durability and of course, price. One material may be better for large quantities. One may be a short-term sign. Ask your printer to run down the differences between the materials he offers.
-What is the production time?
The political cycle has seasons–a busy season and a slow season. The political printing industry is obviously tied to the election cycle. Candidates all order their materials at the same time, so printing presses can get backed up. So, it is important to ask your printer how long it will take for you to receive the materials you order. Candidates often assume production times based on when they need their materials.
-If I order all of my products from you, can I get a discount?
Buying in bulk, so to speak, comes with perks. You should always try to get a better deal if you order multiple products from one source—campaign signs, brochures, t-shirts, etc. You will be motivated and so will the printer. Ask for a campaign package deal. campaign package
-Are there any set-up fees?
Do you know anybody who likes to be "nickel and dimed?" Not likely. Find out up front what all the additional fees will be—set-up charges, color matches, artwork fees, etc.
-Can I pay with a check?
This question may seem unnecessary. However, there are many printing companies that will not take a check. Or, maybe they will, but they require that the check be in their hands before your order is processed. If you don't know this and assume your order has been placed, you may be in for an unfortunate surprise when you find out your order was delayed a week because you didn't send a check right away.
These questions are important. Ask these questions right out of the gate. Don't waste 15 minutes talking with a company just to find out it will take 3 weeks to print your t-shirts and you are being charged a $50 handling fee and $100 for design assistance.
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