Your First 90 Days As A Promo Distributor
ย A STEP-BY-STEP WORKBOOK ๐
Starting your promo business is exciting! And while it may feel a bit overwhelming, ASIยฎ is here to guide the way. This 90-day plan breaks down exactly what to do, when to do it, and which ASI tools will help you along the way. Follow these steps to build a strong foundation, gain customers, and grow quickly.
Launch your business with confidence and get your first sales fast. ๐ฐ
DAYS 1-30: SET UP YOUR BUSINESS & LEARN THE INDUSTRY ๐
Key Goals: Get familiar with the promo industry, set up your business, and build your supplier relationships.
Step 1: Join ASI & Unlock Essential Business Tools ๐ Sign up for ASI membership to gain access to:
- ESPยฎ: The #1 product research & sourcing tool. ๐
- Industry-Leading Supplier Network: Work with reliable, vetted suppliers. โ
- Business Training & Webinars: Learn best practices from industry experts. ๐งโ๐ซ
- Customizable Marketing Tools: Build a professional website, email templates, and more. ๐ป
- Action: Watch ASIโs new member training to get started fast. โก
- Action: Set up your ESP account and explore trending products. โจ
- Benefit: Joining ASI puts you ahead of the competition โ giving you the tools you need to grow faster! ๐
Step 2: Set Up Your Business Basics ๐ผ
- Register your business name and domain. ๐
- Set up a business email (avoid @gmail.com; use your domain). ๐ง
- Create a simple business plan: Who is your target market? What industries will you sell to? ๐ฏ
- Open a business bank account and apply for a resale certificate (if required in your state). ๐ฆ
Step 3: Find & Connect With Reliable Suppliers๐ค
- Search ESP for suppliers with high ratings and fast shipping. ๐
- Request samples of products you plan to sell. ๐
- Introduce yourself to at least 5-10 key suppliers and ask about:
- Their best-selling products ๐
- Turnaround times โฑ๏ธ
- Minimum order quantities ๐ฆ
- Any exclusive ASI member discounts ๐ท๏ธ
DAYS 31-60: BUILD YOUR BRAND & START SELLING ๐
Key Goals: Establish your online presence, market your business, and secure your first customers.
Step 4: Create Your Website & Online Presence ๐
- Use ASIโs ESP+ Stores to launch a ready-made e-commerce site. ๐
- Upload high-quality product images and descriptions (from ESP). ๐ธ
- Write a strong About Us and Contact page. โ๏ธ
- Set up social media pages (LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram). ๐
- Post at least twice a week with product highlights and industry tips. ๐ก
Step 5: Choose a Niche & Start Prospecting Customers ๐ฃ๏ธ
- Decide which industry or niche you want to focus on (healthcare, education, real estate, etc.). ๐ฅ๐๐๏ธ
- Build a lead list of at least 50 potential clients in that industry. ๐
- Reach out via email, social media, or networking events. ๐
- Offer a free consultation or product sample to get a foot in the door. ๐ช
Step 6: Get Your First Sale! ๐
- Send product quotes using ASIโs ESP Quotes tool. ๐
- Explain order minimums, pricing, and branding options clearly. ๐ฒ
- Offer multiple product options to fit different budgets. Choices!
- Close the deal and place your first supplier order! ๐ฅณ
- Tip: ASIโs email marketing tools help you send professional, high-converting outreach emails! ๐
DAYS 61-90: OPTIMIZE & GROW YOUR BUSINESS ๐ฑ
Key Goals: Optimize your processes, expand your client base, and drive repeat business.
Step 7: Deliver Orders & Get Client Feedback ๐
- Track all orders carefully and update customers on delivery times. ๐ฆโก๏ธ๐
- Follow up after delivery to ensure satisfaction. ๐
- Ask for a testimonial or referral if theyโre happy with the product. โญ
Step 8: Automate & Streamline Your Sales Process โ๏ธ
- Use ASIโs CRM tools to manage leads and customers. ๐งโ๐ป
- Set up email templates for quick responses. ๐จ
- Plan a monthly email newsletter featuring new product trends. ๐ฐ
- Post regularly on social media to stay visible. ๐
Step 9: Expand Your Client Base & Offer Custom Packages ๐
- Upsell branded product bundles (e.g., trade show kits, employee welcome boxes). ๐๏ธ
- Run a limited-time promotion for repeat customers. ๐
- Start networking at local events and trade shows to meet new leads. ๐ค
Stick to this plan, and by Day 90, youโll have a running promo business with repeat customers! ๐
ยฉ2025, Advertising Specialty Instituteยฎ. All Rights Reserved. 402-481B 0525
JOIN ASI TODAY and start your promo business the right way! โจ