Secrets of the Small Shop

1. Print as many direct-mail components as possible at one time. While printing a year’s worth of envelopes might be impractical because of storage concerns, consider whether printing for six months is do-able. Bundle your renewals and acknowledgements to save money and time.

2. RFPs and contracts can be costly time-wise, so sign vendor contracts that last two to three years. Longer contracts carry the additional benefit of creating good vendor relationships, since your vendor will feel more like a partner. Sheward cautioned if you sign a longer vendor contract, write in a 30- or 60-day cancellation clause. When asking for RFPs, ensure vendors put in a maximum effort so you can see how they work before you sign an agreement.