Hillview DPM | Design Print Media | Printer | Business Cards | Promotional Items | Logo Design | Printing Services

Print Isn't Dead. It's Your Secret Weapon.

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 18:20:21 GMT

Every few years, someone declares that print is over. As a Bay Area print company that's been in the game since 1987, we've heard it all before — and we're still here to tell you: they're wrong.

Print isn't dying. It's evolving. And the Bay Area businesses getting the most out of their marketing dollars are the ones who figured out how to use print and digital together.

The Numbers Don't Lie

When your inbox is overflowing and your screen is covered in ads, what actually gets your attention? Something real. Something you can hold. That's the edge print has always had — and the data backs it up. Print delivers a brand recall rate of 77%, compared to just 46% for digital. Direct mail generates response rates up to 30 times higher than email. In an era where every business is fighting for attention online, print is one of the few places you can still cut through the noise.

Why Print Works in a Digital World

The Bay Area is one of the most digitally saturated markets in the country. Startups, tech giants, local shops — everyone is running ads, sending email campaigns, and posting on social. Which is exactly why a well-designed mailer, a sharp brochure, or a standout business card matters more than ever.

Print is physical. When a potential client holds your materials, they're already engaged — more focused, more likely to absorb what you're saying. And unlike a digital ad that disappears in a scroll, print sticks around. It lives on desks, in waiting rooms, on refrigerators.

Print also reaches the customers your digital campaigns miss. Not everyone in the South Bay is glued to a screen. Older generations, decision-makers who are screen-fatigued, and customers who prefer a personal touch are all better reached through print. If you're only marketing online, you're leaving business on the table.

The Smart Play: Print + Digital, Together

Here's the thing — no one's saying choose one or the other. The most effective marketing campaigns we see work because print and digital are talking to each other.

QR codes are one of the easiest ways to connect the two. Print a QR code on your flyer, postcard, or brochure, and you've built a direct bridge from something physical to your website, landing page, or booking form . It's seamless for the customer — and trackable for you.

Discount codes work the same way. Drop an exclusive offer on a printed piece and give customers a reason to head online to redeem it. You drive traffic, boost conversions, and get data on what's working.

You can also flip the funnel: run a digital campaign that invites people to opt in for a free printed kit or sample. When someone hands over their address, they've already told you they're interested. From there, a custom mailer — something branded, tangible, and thoughtful — can do what a follow-up email never could.

What This Means for Your Business

If you're a Bay Area business owner trying to stand out in a crowded market, the answer isn't more digital noise. It's a smarter strategy that uses every tool available — including the ones your competitors have written off.

Print builds relationships. It makes your brand feel real. And when it's connected to a strong digital presence, it amplifies everything you're already doing.

At Hillview DPM, we've been helping South Bay businesses bring their print and digital marketing together for over three decades. Whether it's business cards, direct mail, branded merchandise, or custom signage — we make sure your printed pieces do more than just look good. They work.

Ready to make print part of your marketing strategy? Get an estimate today.

Revised by: Beth Walker

Source: PrintingForLess

How to Create Graduation Signs and Banners That Truly Celebrate Your Graduate

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 18:34:45 GMT

Graduation is a once-in-a-lifetime moment—and it deserves to be seen, celebrated, and remembered.

From yard signs that make neighbors smile to full wall banners that transform a party space, large-format printing is one of the most impactful ways to honor your graduate. These pieces don’t just decorate—they tell a story, create pride, and make your graduate feel truly special.

Here’s how to get the most out of your graduation signs, banners, and displays —so your celebration stands out and feels unforgettable.

Start With Your Purpose

Before choosing a sign or banner, think about what you want it to do.

Are you:

Celebrating your graduate at home?
Decorating for a party?
Sharing your pride with the neighborhood?
Creating a photo backdrop for memories?

Your goal will help guide your choices. A yard sign may be perfect for visibility, while a full wall banner can create a stunning centerpiece for your celebration.

Choose the Right Type of Graduation Display

Large-format printing gives you plenty of options. The key is choosing what fits your space and celebration style. Each option helps you celebrate in a different way—and many families choose a combination for maximum impact.

Yard Signs
Perfect for front yards, these signs announce your graduate to the neighborhood and add excitement leading up to the big day.

Banners
Great for parties, fences, or indoor spaces. Banners are versatile, easy to hang, and ideal for showcasing your graduate’s name, school, and year.

Full Wall Banners
If you want to make a statement, this is it. A full wall banner transforms any room into a celebration space and creates the perfect backdrop for photos.

Make It Personal

The most memorable graduation displays are the ones that feel personal.

Consider including:

Your graduate’s name and class year
School colors or logo
A favorite photo
A short message like “We’re So Proud of You”

These small details turn a simple sign into something meaningful your graduate will remember for years.

Choose Colors That Stand Out

Color plays a big role in how noticeable your sign is. School colors are always a great place to start, but contrast matters just as much. Make sure your text stands out clearly against the background so it’s easy to read from a distance. Bold, clean color combinations help your sign stand out in photos, in your yard, and at your event.

Keep the Design Simple

When it comes to large signs, simple designs work best.

Focus on:

A clear headline (name + “Class of 2026”)
One strong photo (if using one)
A short message

Too much text or too many elements can feel cluttered. Clean, simple designs are easier to read and more visually impactful.

Use High-Quality Photos and Files

If you’re adding a photo, make sure it’s high quality. Blurry or low-resolution images can look fine on a phone but won’t print well at a large size. Choose clear, high-resolution images so your banner or sign looks sharp and professional. This is especially important for full wall banners and large displays where every detail is visible.

Think About Placement

Where your sign or banner will be displayed matters.

Ask yourself:

Will it be indoors or outdoors?
How far away will people view it from?
Will it be used for photos?

Yard signs should be bold and readable from the street. Indoor banners should be placed where guests naturally gather. Wall banners should be positioned for photos and visibility. A little planning goes a long way in making your display more effective.

Work With the Right Print Partner

The right printer makes the entire process easier. From helping you choose the right size and material to ensuring your design prints clearly and beautifully, an experienced partner helps bring your vision to life.

At Hillview DPM, we help families create graduation signs and banners that are not only high-quality—but meaningful, memorable, long-lasting and ready for celebration.

Final Thoughts

Graduation is a milestone worth celebrating in a big way. With the right signs and banners, you can turn your home, yard, or event space into a place of pride, joy, and lasting memories.

Ready to celebrate your graduate? Let’s create something they’ll never forget. Call Us Today!

By: Beth Walker

Elevate Your Print with the Right Materials

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 01:17:24 GMT

For CPAs, bookkeepers, and tax professionals, every detail matters—including your printed materials.

From business cards to client mailers, the paper and finish you choose directly impact how your brand is perceived. The right combination communicates credibility, attention to detail, and trust. The wrong choice can do the opposite.

Here’s a simple guide to help you choose the right paper and finish for your most common print projects—so your materials reflect the level of professionalism your clients expect.

Start With the Purpose of Your Piece

Before selecting paper, think about how your materials will be used.

Are you:

Mailing tax reminders or updates?
Handing out business cards at networking events?
Sharing informational brochures with clients?

Each use case requires a different balance of durability, flexibility, and presentation. When the purpose is clear, choosing the right paper becomes much easier.

Key Paper Characteristics to Know

Understanding a few basics can help you make better decisions.

Paper Weight & Thickness

Heavier paper generally feels more premium and durable. For example, postcards must meet minimum thickness requirements for mailing. Thickness (caliper) also affects how your piece feels in hand—an important factor for client-facing materials.

Opacity

Opacity determines how much ink shows through from the other side.

Higher opacity:

Improves readability
Prevents distractions
Creates a cleaner, more professional look

This is especially important for documents with dense text or bold graphics.

Brightness

Brightness affects how colors and text appear.

Higher brightness:

Produces sharper text
Makes colors more vibrant
Improves overall clarity

This is key for materials where readability and detail matter—like financial summaries or client communications.

Choosing the Right Finish

Finishes don’t just change how your materials look—they affect durability and feel.

Gloss Coating

Enhances color and sharpness
Creates a polished, modern look
Great for marketing materials

Matte or Silk Coating

Softer, more refined appearance
Easier to read under bright light
Ideal for professional, understated branding

UV Coating

High-gloss, protective finish
Resists scratches and moisture
Best for postcards and high-impact pieces

Why It Matters for Your Business

Your printed materials are a reflection of your brand.

For financial professionals, where trust and credibility are everything, details like paper weight, finish, and print quality help reinforce your expertise before a conversation even begins.

Well-chosen materials:

Build confidence with clients
Elevate your brand image
Support consistent, professional communication

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right paper and finish doesn’t need to be complicated. With a clear purpose and a few smart decisions, your print materials can feel as professional as the services you provide.

At Hillview DPM, we help CPAs, bookkeepers, and tax professionals select the right materials for every project—so your brand always shows up at its best.

Ready to upgrade your print? Let’s create materials that reflect the quality of your work. Call Today.

Revised By: Beth Walker

A Business Owner’s Guide to Eye-Catching Sign Design

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:00:10 GMT

If people can’t see you, they can’t choose you.

In a world full of digital ads and social media posts, one marketing tool still works every single day is your business sign. A well-designed sign attracts attention, reinforces your brand, and helps turn passersby into paying customers. Whether you’re creating a storefront logo sign, a promotional banner, or indoor directional signage, thoughtful design makes the difference between being overlooked and being remembered.

Here’s how to design a business sign that stands out—and drives real results.

1. Start With a Clear Goal

Before you choose colors or fonts, define what your sign needs to accomplish. Every sign should have one main job. When your goal is clear, the design becomes easier—and more effective. Trying to say too much at once often weakens the message. Strong signs focus on one purpose and do it well.

Are you:

Identifying your storefront?
Promoting a sale or event?
Directing customers inside?
Building brand awareness?

2. Keep the Message Simple

When it comes to signage, less is more. Your sign isn’t a brochure. It’s often viewed quickly—sometimes in just a few seconds. Long messages, small text, and cluttered layouts make it hard for people to understand what you’re offering. Think of your sign like a great headline. It should be clear, easy to read, and strong enough to spark interest immediately.

Instead:

Use short, clear headlines
Focus on one key message
Include only what supports that message

3. Make It Stand Out in Its Surroundings

Your sign doesn’t exist on its own—it competes with buildings, landscaping, lighting, and other businesses. High contrast improves visibility. A dark sign on a dark wall blends in. A bold, contrasting color stands out. If your space is dimly lit, brighter colors and larger text may be necessary. If your exterior is busy, a clean and simple layout will cut through the noise. Visibility always comes first.

For outdoor signage, consider:

The color of your building
Nearby signs
Natural elements like trees or brick

For indoor signage, think about:

Wall colors
Lighting levels
Customer sightlines

4. Design With Your Customer in Mind

An eye-catching sign speaks directly to the people you want to attract. A real estate sign targeting modern homeowners may feature clean fonts and a minimal layout. A family-owned restaurant might use warm colors and inviting imagery. People respond to visuals that feel familiar and relevant. When your design reflects your audience, it builds connection and trust.

Consider:

Who your ideal customer is
What style they connect with
What matters most to them

5. Use High-Quality Images and Graphics

Blurry or low-resolution images can quickly make your business look unprofessional. Strong visuals reinforce credibility. Whether it’s a polished logo, a product photo, or a lifestyle image, quality matters. A sharp, professional sign reflects a sharp, professional business.

Always use:

High-resolution images (300 DPI or higher)
Vector logos for crisp printing
Clean, professional graphics

6. Highlight Your Brand

Your sign is an extension of your brand identity. Consistency builds recognition. When customers see the same style across your storefront, banners, and interior signage, your business becomes easier to remember. Some of the most effective signs focus almost entirely on branding—dimensional lettering above your entrance, a bold blade sign, or a clean lobby logo display. Brand visibility builds long-term growth.

Make sure your:

Logo is clearly visible
Brand colors are consistent
Fonts match your overall marketing

7. Keep Your Signage Consistent

If you’re running a promotion or updating your space, keep your signage cohesive. Your outdoor banners, window decals, and interior signs should feel connected. Consistent colors, messaging, and layout strengthen your brand and make your marketing more effective. When everything looks aligned, your business appears more established and trustworthy.

8. Work With the Right Sign Partner

Even the best design needs quality materials and production. At Hillview Design Print Media, we help local businesses create signage that not only looks great—but works hard for their growth.

Choosing an experienced print and sign provider ensures:

Durable materials
Clean finishes
Professional installation
Guidance from start to finish

Ready to Create a Sign That Works for You?

Your business sign is more than decoration. It’s a daily marketing tool that builds visibility, credibility, and customer traffic.

With clear goals, simple design, and the right production partner, you can create signage that truly stands out.

Call us today—and let’s design a sign that brings customers through your doors.

Revised By: Beth Walker

A Practical Guide to Custom Signs That Actually Drive Business

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 16:30:02 GMT

Custom signs do more than fill space—they grab attention, guide customers, promote offers, and strengthen your brand every day.

From logo signs and promotional displays to wayfinding and event signage, the right custom sign helps people find your business, understand what you offer, and feel confident choosing you. This guide breaks down how to plan, design, and select custom signs that truly work—without making the process complicated.

Start With a Plan

Before choosing designs or materials, start with a clear plan. Taking time to think through a few basics upfront will save you money, reduce revisions, and lead to better results.

What’s the Purpose of Your Sign?

Every sign should have one main job. Common goals include:

Promoting a sale, product, or event
Helping customers navigate your space
Increasing brand visibility
Sharing important information

When the purpose is clear, it’s easier to decide the right size, format, and messaging.

Who Is Your Audience?

Your sign should speak directly to the people you want to reach. Think about:

Who your customers are
What catches their attention quickly
What information they need most

Your audience influences everything—from wording and colors to font size and placement.

Where Will the Sign Be Displayed?

Placement plays a huge role in effectiveness. Ask yourself:

Will the sign be indoors or outdoors?
How far away will it be viewed from?
What lighting or surroundings will it compete with?

Different environments require different materials, and visibility depends heavily on location.

Choose the Right Type of Sign

Once you’ve planned your project, you can choose the best sign type for your needs.

Event & Trade Show Signs

Retractable or X-stand banners
Table tents and table towers
Branded tablecloths
Posters

These help create a professional look, draw people in, and make your booth stand out.

Indoor Business Signs

Ceiling danglers and shelf danglers
Posters and menu boards
Wall and floor decals
Wall signs and banners

Indoor signs guide customers, promote offers, and reinforce branding right at the point of decision.

Outdoor Business Signs

Yard signs and banners
Window decals
Aluminum and plastic signs
Blade, feather, and backlit signs

Outdoor signage helps customers find you, notice you, and remember your brand.

Vehicle & Mobile Signs

Window graphics
Car magnets
Vinyl decals

These turn your vehicle into a moving advertisement wherever you go.

Office & Lobby Signage

Acrylic logo signs
Directional signs
Wall decals and table tents

Office signage adds credibility and reinforces your brand from the moment someone walks in.

Design a Sign That Gets Noticed

Effective signage is clear, readable, and intentional.

Use Easy-to-Read Fonts

Avoid overly decorative fonts. Clean, bold lettering ensures your message is readable from a distance.

2. Keep the Design Simple

Focus on the essentials, too many elements compete for attention and weaken your message:

Logo
Short message
Visual
Clear call to action

3. Choose Colors Strategically

Brand colors are important, but contrast matters just as much. High-contrast designs improve visibility and readability.

4. Use High-Quality Images

Low-resolution images show quickly in print. Always use high-resolution files (300 DPI minimum) and vector logos when possible.

5. Choosing the Right Sign Printing Partner

A good printing partner does more than press “print.” Look for a company that:

Offers guidance and recommendations
Helps you choose the right materials
Has experience across industries
Supports you from idea to installation

At Hillview DPM, we help businesses choose signage that fits their goals—backed by over 35 years of printing experience.

Final Thoughts

Custom signs don’t need to be complicated to be effective. With clear goals, smart design choices, and the right printing partner, signage can become one of your most reliable marketing tools. If you’re ready to bring your custom sign project to life, we’re here to help.

Get started on your custom sign with Hillview DPM today.

Revised by: Beth Walker

Source: QuestGraphics

4 Costly Print Mistakes Business Owners Learn Too Late—and How to Avoid Them

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 20:38:03 GMT

Ordering commercial print can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re new to it.

With so many options, vendors, and price points, it’s easy to make choices that seem smart at the time but quietly drive up your costs. Most print buyers learn through trial and error. Sometimes expensive error. The good news? A few simple principles can help you avoid the most common mistakes and save money on every print order. Whether you’re ordering business cards, brochures, catalogs, or direct mail, here are four lessons business owners say they wish they’d learned sooner.

1. Ordering More Doesn’t Always Save Money

The Mistake

Many first-time print buyers order larger quantities because the cost per piece drops. While the unit price may be lower, the total cost increases —especially if those extra pieces never get used.

The Smarter Approach

Print what you actually need. Branding, messaging, and promotions change faster than most businesses expect. Extra materials often end up outdated, unused, or discarded.

Why this matters:

Unused print equals wasted money
Smaller runs reduce risk
Reordering isn’t a mistake—it’s flexibility

As you learn how quickly materials are used, ordering becomes more intuitive. Until then, resist the urge to overprint just to save a few cents per piece.

Hillview can help you determine the right quantities and where real savings exist.

2. Not Using a Digital Web-to-Print Partner

The Mistake

Many businesses assume local printers always offer the best value. In reality, smaller print shops often can’t match the efficiency or pricing of high-volume digital operations.

The Smarter Approach

Web-to-print partners that use digital presses—like Hillview DPM—run large volumes every day. That scale keeps costs low and turnaround times fast.

Benefits include:

Professional-quality printing without extra overhead
Consistent results from job to job
Affordable short runs that make sense for growing businesses

Online printing isn’t just convenient—it’s a strategic way to control print costs. Simplify your ordering process at Hillviewdpm.com

3. Skipping Paper Samples

The Mistake

Ordering print without reviewing paper samples is a gamble. What looks good on a screen doesn’t always translate well on paper.

The Smarter Approach

Paper samples allow you to:

Feel paper weight and texture
Compare coated vs. uncoated stocks
See how ink prints on different papers
Avoid unexpected results and reprints

A few minutes reviewing samples can prevent costly mistakes, missed deadlines, and disappointment when the final product arrives.

4. Treating Proofing as Optional

The Mistake

Rushing artwork to print without thorough proofing is one of the most expensive mistakes a business can make.

The Smarter Approach

Proofing costs nothing—and can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Before sending artwork to print:

Proof it carefully
Step away and review it again
Have someone else check it
Print a draft when possible

Errors often hide on screens but stand out immediately on paper.

A true (and painful) example:
A client once requested 15,000 postcards for a Christian school and asked for a quick turnaround. While reviewing the piece, our customer service representative noticed the postcard said the school would “neuter your children” instead of “nurture your children.”

Typos happen—but without proofing, they can be unforgettable.

Final Thoughts

Printing doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. By ordering only what you need, working with a digital web-to-print partner, reviewing paper samples, and taking proofing seriously, you can avoid the most common—and costly—print mistakes.

With the right approach, every print order becomes more confident, more efficient, and more cost-effective.

Revised by: Beth Walker

Source: QuestGraphics

3 Marketing Mistakes Holding Small Businesses Back—and How to Fix Them

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 15:00:08 GMT

Effective marketing isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing the right things well.

For small and medium-sized businesses, time and budget matter. Every campaign, mailer, and message needs to pull its weight. Yet many businesses unknowingly make a few common marketing missteps that quietly drain leads, sales, and growth. The good news? These mistakes are easy to fix once you know what to look for.

Here are three of the most common marketing mistakes small businesses make—and how to turn each one into an opportunity.

1. Guessing Instead of Knowing Your Audience

The Mistake

Many businesses market to who they think their customers are—or who they want them to be—rather than who is actually buying. Even the best design and strongest offer won’t perform if it’s reaching the wrong audience.

The Smarter Approach: Market to People Who Look Like Your Best Customers

Small businesses have a major advantage: close customer relationships. Your current customers already tell a story—who they are, what they value, and why they choose you.

With tools like Look-Alike Analysis , you can use data from your best customers to identify new prospects with similar demographics, interests, and behaviors. This leads to better-targeted lists, stronger messaging, and higher response rates.

Example:
You may believe your sporting goods customers are coaches or older hobbyists. But data might reveal your strongest buyers are actually parents with children ages 12–18 and household incomes between $75,000–$100,000. That insight changes everything—from your messaging to where and how you market.

2. Expecting Results From One Touch

The Mistake

Sending one postcard, one email, or running a single ad and expecting immediate results is one of the most common—and costly—mistakes. Marketing rarely works in one touch. Trust takes time.

The Smarter Approach: Stay Visible With Multi-Touch Campaigns

Consistent exposure builds familiarity, and familiarity builds trust. That’s why multi-drop campaigns consistently outperform one-off efforts. And it doesn’t require a bigger budget—just a better strategy. Instead of mailing one postcard to a large list, you can send multiple touches to a smaller, more targeted audience for the same cost—and see better results.

Why it works:

First touch: Your message is noticed.
Second touch: Your brand is recognized.
Third touch: Trust is built—and action follows.

It’s the same reason TV and digital ads repeat. Repetition works.

3. Relying on a Single Marketing Channel

The Mistake

Depending on just one channel—social media, email, or direct mail—limits your reach. People consume information in different ways, and many messages never make it through. Emails get filtered. Ads get skipped. Social posts get buried.

The Smarter Approach: Combine Online and Offline Marketing

A multi-channel strategy increases visibility, strengthens brand recognition, and gives customers more opportunities to engage.

Effective combinations include:

Postcards + email
Newsletters + social media
Direct mail + targeted digital ads
Print materials + QR codes linking to your website

Businesses using multiple channels can see up to 300% greater marketing success than those relying on just one. When your message is consistent across print, digital, and in-person touchpoints, your brand becomes more recognizable—and more trusted.

Final Thoughts

Marketing mistakes are common —especially when you’re focused on running and growing a small business. But when you truly understand your audience, stay consistent with your messaging, and show up across multiple channels, your marketing becomes more effective, more efficient, and more profitable.

If you’re experiencing any of these challenges—or you’re ready to generate stronger leads and better results— Hillview DPM is here to help you build a smarter marketing strategy that works for your business and your budget.

Revised by: Beth Walker

Source: Farmhouse Creative

Ready to bust some myths about paper? Part 2

Tue, 19 May 2020 16:12:57 GMT

THE MYTH:
Paper is bad for the environment

THE FACT:

Paper is one of the few truly sustainable products

PAPER IS MADE FROM WOOD, A NATURAL RESOURCE THAT IS RENEWABLE, RECYCLABLE AND CAN BE MANAGED SUSTAINABLY.

"Besides easily recognizable paper products (e.g. writing paper or paper towels), more than 5,000 products can be made from recycled paper."

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2016 1

In North America, paper is recycled more than any other commodity and the benefits include: extending the wood fiber supply ; reducing greenhouse gas emissions by avoiding methane emissions (released when paper decomposes in landfills or is incinerated); contributing to carbon sequestration ; reducing energy needed for paper production ; and saving landfill space . 1 These features, combined with the North American paper industry’s advocacy of responsible forestry practices , certification , the use of renewable biomass and advances in efficient paper-making technology , make paper one of the most sustainable products we use .

• About 39% of the fiber used in paper-making in the U.S. is obtained through recycling . The rest comes from wood that is typically obtained through:

1) thinning of forest stands being grown to larger diameters to provide raw material for production of lumber and plywood

2) patch clear-cutting of smaller diameter trees managed for pulp production, and/ or

3) collection of chips and sawdust produced as by-products in the production of lumber. 2

• In Canada, 87% of the wood fiber used to make paper comes from a blend of sawmill residues (59%) and recycled paper (28%). 3

• The paper industry adheres to respected third-party certification standards, ensuring the paper you use has come from a sustainable forest source . These include the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®); the Sustainable Forestry Initiative® (SFI®) program; the American Tree Farm System (ATFS) and systems endorsed by the international Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFCTM). 4

• Globally, only about 10% of the world’s forests are certified – the majority of which are in North America . By sourcing certified products from a variety of credible standards, buyers are sending a message that they support sound forestry. 5

• Wood fibers can be grown, sourced and reused in a responsible way . Maximizing the use of recycled fibers and sourcing virgin fiber from credibly certified natural forests and plantations can reduce paper’s ecological footprint.” 6

1 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2016

2 Dovetail Partners, 2016

3 Forest Products Association of Canada, 2012

4 American Forest & Paper Association, 2014

5 Sustainable Forestry Initiative, 2013

6 World Wildlife Fund, 2015

This article was originally published by The international Two Sides network, and can be found here

Simple Ways To Slow Down To Sell Faster

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 17:05:04 GMT

At first glance, it may seem that faster sales pitches lead to faster sales. However, the key to speeding up the sales process and closing more deals is slowing down your sales conversations . According to author and sales expert Kevin F. Davis , this allows sales professionals to get in sync with the customer's buying process.

If you want to learn how to slow down to sell faster, read on. We highlight Davis' essential selling skills to help you sell faster.

Get the customer to move backward in their buying process.

Have you ever had a great first meeting, and then nothing happened afterward? Davis notes that according to recent research, as much as 60 percent of a buyer's process is complete before the customer even contacts possible suppliers. Customers identify their own needs internally . The trouble this causes for salespeople is that customers think they did a good job of identifying their own needs, but they likely did a lousy job.

This means that customer needs are poorly defined at the very moment when they start asking you questions about your product or service. This is the point when many salespeople mistakenly "take the bait" and start telling the customer about how great their product or service is, says Davis. The solution is to get the customer to move backward in their buying process. Say, "I'd be happy to show you our capabilities. May I ask you a few questions first so I can determine which ones will solve your problems?"

Find out where the customer is in their buying process.

If the prospect initiates contact with you, the first thing you must do is find out where they are in their buying process, Davis says. The later in the buying process you enter, the lower your chances of success . To identify where a customer is, simply ask, "What steps have you taken thus far in regard to making this decision?"

Probe for a second customer need.

The reason customers first contact you is that they think they may have a need . Obviously, you want to thoroughly probe this first need , notes Davis. However, sometimes that first need – even when it is well-defined – is not perceived by the customer as big enough for them to go through all the hassles of changing suppliers. So, once the customer's first need has been properly probed, you want to ask: "Other than this issue, is there anything else about your current supplier that you would like to see them improve?"

According to Davis, your goal here is to build your buyer's discontent . This is the essence of consultative selling – helping customers to understand those problems that they didn't previously recognize . When the customer perceives that the value of a solution is significantly greater than its cost, customers will usually decide to move forward to research their buying criteria and compare options.

Schedule follow-up after your demo.

Have you ever had a customer that you thought would become a sure sale suddenly go silent on you, and not return your phone calls? When a customer is scheduling demos from different suppliers their focus is on answering the question, "Which option is our best choice?" But after evaluating the different demos, the buyer wonders, "What are the risks if we move forward with our preferred supplier?" Rarely do decision-makers move directly to "let's close this deal."

You can't resolve customer fear if the customer doesn't return your phone calls. To do a better job of overcoming customer fear in 2020, resolve now to schedule a follow-up meeting after each and every demo.

Every sales rep wants to close more deals and win more clients . The key to getting there isn't working faster—it's slowing down and mastering the sales skills above.

Compiled by Curtis Walker, II MBA

Source: Kevin F. Davis has more than 30 years of experience in sales. He has worked his way up from sales rep, to sales manager, to general manager and is the author of The Sales Manager's Guide to Greatness: 10 Essential Strategies for Leading Your Team to the Top.

Ready to bust some myths about paper? Part 1

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 00:48:42 GMT

THE MYTH:
GOING PAPERLESS SAVES FORESTS

THE FACT:

IN NORTH AMERICA, WE GROW MANY MORE TREES THAN WE HARVEST

THERE ARE 20% MORE TREES IN THE U.S. TODAY THAN THERE WERE ON THE FIRST EARTH DAY CELEBRATION IN 1970. ¹

"The reality is that the greatest incentive for continued investment and retention of our nation’s forests is a stable market for paper and other wood products."

Dovetail Partners ²

Paper manufacturers encourage forest sustainability through their purchase and use of certified wood fiber and by promoting sustainable forest management policies and practices at home and around the globe. By providing a dependable market for responsibly grown fiber, the paper industry encourages landowners to manage their forestland instead of selling it for development or other non-forest uses.², ³

• Net forest area in the U.S. has been stable since the early 1900’s and has increased from 754 to 766 million acres between 2005 and 2015 . Net volume of growing stock increased by over 10% between 2005 and 2015. 4 Canada’s forest area of 857 million acres has been quite stable over the past 25 years. 5

• Each year forests in the U.S. and Canada grow significantly more wood than is harvested. In the U.S., average net annual increase in growing-stock trees nationwide is about 26 billion ft³. 6 In 2015, Canada harvested just over 5.6 billion ft³ of timber, well below the estimated sustainable wood supply level of 7.98 billion ft³. 7

• Claims like “go paperless – save trees” create a false impression that forests are a finite resource, being destroyed . In truth, North American forests are a renewable resource that is continuously replenished using sustainable forest management. 8

• More than half the forest land in the U.S. is owned and managed by about 11 million private forest owners . Private forest lands provided over 90% of the domestically produced wood and paper products in 2017.

• The income landowners receive for trees grown on their land encourages them to maintain, sustainably manage and renew this valuable resource . 9

• On privately owned timberlands, overall inventories increased 6.2% between 2008 and 2014 and forest growth exceeded harvest removals . 10

• Avoiding the use of wood is not the way to protect forests for the long term . It is precisely the areas of the world that consume the least wood that continue to experience the greatest forest loss. 8

1 American Forest & Paper Association, 2013

2 Dovetail Partners, 2016

3 World Wildlife Fund, 2015

4 United Nations FAO, 2015

5 Natural Resources Canada, 2017

6 Oswalt et al., 2014

7 Natural Resources Canada, 2017

8 Dovetail Partners, 2014

9 USDA, 2017

10 Forest2Market, 2016

This article was originally published by The international Two Sides network, and can be found here

Who is Hillview Design Print Media?

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 19:11:56 GMT

A brief glimpse into the past, present, and future of The Printer you can count on from Design to Delivery

For printing industry leader Hillview Design Print Media , the passion to help companies build their business is what fuels them. Being a successful print company since 1987, the staff of Hillview Design Print Media has seen it all from major economic challenges to unparalleled success in their business.

Since 1987 , Hillview Design Print Media has purchased 8 printing businesses in all. It all started when current President Beth Walker was working for Rainbow Press in San Jose, California, in 1997. The previous owner decided to sell Rainbow Press. Beth, who had worked in printing all along, decided to take the plunge and buy the company.

As with any new venture, the first year was slow, but only for a short while. The company grew from $187K the first year to over $400K within a short period. Beth invested in building strong relationships with her clients, rather than “just selling.” People came to her through word-of-mouth advertising. That set the ball rolling and she bought Hillview Printing in Milpitas in 2004 that almost doubled the size of Rainbow Press. She kept the Hillview Printing name. Beth was on a journey of becoming a printing conglomerate. She bought Murphy’s printing in 2005 when its owner approached her for the deal, she took over CC Graphics , Impress 2000 , Innovative Print Media in 2008-09, and Campbell Graphics in 2012. Most recently, Beth bought Norman Paul’s Print Center in Campbell in October 2017. “I am proud of my accomplishments,” said a beaming Beth. “We have come out of the 'bad economies' a little bruised but stronger than ever!”

Beth is a philanthropist who believes in paving the way forward. She embodies cooperative networking. She has been a part of many groups and given her innate quality to help. She has won Local Member of the Year , National Member of the Year , and many Excellence Awards . But her most ‘prized’ award is the Spirit of Success Award by AT&T . She was the only one from the entire Western region that year to be handpicked for this prestigious award.

Beth is currently involved in BNI Highrise group that meets weekly at the Silicon Valley Capital Club and is the Managing Director of the Morgan Hill / South County Polka Dot Powerhouse (a national women’s networking group). Beth takes the most pride in helping women entrepreneurs grow their businesses.

Beth is a great mentor and if you have questions about building your own business or buying out another company, feel free to invite her for coffee! Beth is more than willing to share some robust insights. Beth's resilience, business acumen, and compassion will definitely redefine how you do business.

The future of Hillview Design Print Media is bright. Since our humble beginnings when Beth purchased Rainbow Press, Hillview Design Print Media has grown by over 800% and continues to climb.

In an era of diminishing customer experience and service, Hillview Design Print Media goes above and beyond by treating our clients like family.

Hillview Design Print Media is the only family-owned print company in the Bay Area that utilizes an unrivaled 5 step process for commercial printing and promotional products. We call it “The Hillview Way”

Hillview DPM | Design Print Media | Printer | Business Cards | Promotional Items | Logo Design | Printing Services

Print Isn't Dead. It's Your Secret Weapon.

Every few years, someone declares that print is over. As a Bay Area print company that's been in the game since 1987, we've heard it all before — and we're still here to tell you: they're wrong.

How to Create Graduation Signs and Banners That Truly Celebrate Your Graduate

Graduation is a once-in-a-lifetime moment—and it deserves to be seen, celebrated, and remembered.

Start With Your Purpose

Choose the Right Type of Graduation Display

Make It Personal

Choose Colors That Stand Out

Keep the Design Simple

Use High-Quality Photos and Files

Think About Placement

Work With the Right Print Partner

Final Thoughts

Elevate Your Print with the Right Materials

For CPAs, bookkeepers, and tax professionals, every detail matters—including your printed materials.

Start With the Purpose of Your Piece

Recommended Paper for Common Print Materials

Brochures

Catalogs & Booklets

Business Cards

Postcards

Key Paper Characteristics to Know

Paper Weight & Thickness

Opacity

Brightness

Choosing the Right Finish

Gloss Coating

Matte or Silk Coating

UV Coating

Why It Matters for Your Business

Final Thoughts

A Business Owner’s Guide to Eye-Catching Sign Design

If people can’t see you, they can’t choose you.

1. Start With a Clear Goal

4. Design With Your Customer in Mind

5. Use High-Quality Images and Graphics

6. Highlight Your Brand

7. Keep Your Signage Consistent

8. Work With the Right Sign Partner

Ready to Create a Sign That Works for You?

A Practical Guide to Custom Signs That Actually Drive Business

Custom signs do more than fill space—they grab attention, guide customers, promote offers, and strengthen your brand every day.

Start With a Plan

What’s the Purpose of Your Sign?

Who Is Your Audience?

Where Will the Sign Be Displayed?

Choose the Right Type of Sign

Event & Trade Show Signs

Indoor Business Signs

Outdoor Business Signs

Vehicle & Mobile Signs

Office & Lobby Signage

Design a Sign That Gets Noticed

5. Choosing the Right Sign Printing Partner

Final Thoughts

4 Costly Print Mistakes Business Owners Learn Too Late—and How to Avoid Them

Ordering commercial print can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re new to it.

1. Ordering More Doesn’t Always Save Money

The Mistake

The Smarter Approach

2. Not Using a Digital Web-to-Print Partner

The Mistake

The Smarter Approach

3. Skipping Paper Samples

The Mistake

The Smarter Approach

4. Treating Proofing as Optional

The Mistake

The Smarter Approach

Final Thoughts

3 Marketing Mistakes Holding Small Businesses Back—and How to Fix Them

Effective marketing isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing the right things well.

1. Guessing Instead of Knowing Your Audience

The Mistake

The Smarter Approach: Market to People Who Look Like Your Best Customers

2. Expecting Results From One Touch

The Mistake

The Smarter Approach: Stay Visible With Multi-Touch Campaigns

3. Relying on a Single Marketing Channel

THE MYTH:
Paper is bad for the environment

THE MYTH:
GOING PAPERLESS SAVES FORESTS