I am now a work at home mom. And even though I'm home all day, and I get to spend far more time with my kid than a lot of working moms, I still utilize an Eco Virtual Assistant to ensure that the time I am spending working is truly the most rewarding financially for me.
Make your mail list. This one comprises the names of these groups or individuals that appeal to your target demographic. There is A direct mail list not just a collection of names and contact information. Those included in your direct mail list should have allowed you to send them marketing your business with print whether online or in their physical addresses. You don't wish to be considered a spammer, if you're just starting out in the industry.
Design it. (Using a stock/template card will look exactly like everyone else's card.) You can easily do this yourself. Companies like Vistaprint permit you to upload your own design.
If you are able to avail of pocket folder printing services that are cheap, but if you do not get quality prints, your efforts are futile. Cost and quality should come together. You do not need to compromise the quality of your prints for a price that is discounted ?
Keeping Poor Records - Affiliate marketing may be a laid back business, but it is still a business nonetheless. Just as any physical business would keep a record of all transactions, events, alterations, costs etc, an internet business should not retreat from this too. Keeping a log of the business is very important because, ultimately, a disorganized business is a failing business.
Mail - If the decision is to mail and you are a small business, the recommendation is to use the 4.25" x 5.5" because of reduced postage price, reduced printing price and, hopefully, reduced design cost. Considering the USPO criteria, an approach we have used many times in the past my explanation is to display your company information on the front of the postcard and put coupons for specials on the back. Two or one coupons with a lay-out that is pleasing will fit nicely on the back left under the return address. We do not recommend putting coupons on the front as the appearance cheapens. Do put a notification on the front that the coupon specials are on the back.
Get product samples when possible. Check the website and ask for a sample. It needs to be difficult to get a sample. If the company fails to offer product samples to you go on with the next. The product samples should be delivered to you.