2. If you’re looking to spread the word about a new product, finding the proper audience is a great first step. Put together a case study summarizing your ideal target customer, including their interests, characteristics, and buying trends. Understanding your customer’s perspective will help you tap into their core values for better communication. Determining the right audience will also help clarify other marketing decisions, from designing a logo to ordering custom labels online.

3. Sometimes finding the perfect name for your new product can be the hardest part. Try making a list of adjectives that best describe the product, then hone in on specific words or phrases that stand out. Try to pick a name that’s catchy and memorable, especially if you’re planning to market directly to consumers.

4. After you’ve decided on a name, promote your product with a logo that does all the talking. Work with a trained graphic designer to create a logo that is: Unique to your business Effective, in color or black and white Simple yet eye-catching Scalable (meaning it can be used at different sizes without loss of quality)

5. Once your product is ready to be packaged, remember that its container or label is the first thing a potential customer will see. Be sure to have your logo prominently displayed, and all the necessary product info included. Not only can the right packaging make your product stand out, it can also: Protect from breakage or spills Share customer testimonials Convey product benefits List safety warnings Include manufacturer info

6. When you’ve developed the look and feel of your product, the next step is to put together a written marketing plan. This document will serve as a playbook for future marketing and press decisions, including key messages, goals, and an overview of competitors. If you need help getting started, there are many online resources to help create the perfect marketing plan.

7. In your communications plan, make sure you include a list of short- and long-term goals to meet with the launch of your product. Some ideas include: Advertisers to contact for future partnerships Benchmarks for sales teams A list of distributors to stock your product

8. Building your brand’s social media presence is often the easiest and most inexpensive way to get a head start on marketing. Create a simple website and e-store for consumers to access. This will help increase exposure to your brand, which will open up more options for distribution and sales.

9. After you’ve established your online presence, you can start pursuing distribution through third- party retailers. Start first with small, independent outlets. Over time, as your brand continues to grow, you can consider larger distribution, including chains and big-box retailers.

10. Bay Tech Label, Inc. offers custom printed labels and tags for a variety of industries, including Pharmaceutical, Nutraceutical, and Food & Beverage. With complete in-house design capabilities, plus an eye for the latest trends in tags and embossing, our staff will keep your packaging ahead of the curve. For more information, visit www.baytechlabel.com or call 1-800-229-8321.www.baytechlabel.com

11. SUMMARY Preparing a product for launch can be daunting, with business owners unsure which steps to take first. Before you can begin stocking your product in stores, consider other aspects of marketing. From logo design to packaging, there are many ways to let a great product speak for itself.