We’ve all been there—starting out with a limited budget and wondering where to draw the line between cost and quality. It’s tempting to go for cheaper options, especially when you’re trying to cut corners. But let’s be honest, who hasn’t come across those flimsy business cards that feel like they’ve been printed on the back of a cereal box? Worse yet, some even have “printed for free” on the back. Talk about a turn-off! Your business’s first impression matters, and nothing says “I don’t value my brand” more than poor design quality.
The design and feel of your marketing materials—whether it’s business cards, leaflets, or brochures—immediately convey the quality of your products or services. In an ideal world, people would only care about what you’re offering, but the reality is, appearances count. The look and feel of your materials are often the first (and sometimes only) impression people get of your business.
Take, for example, the all-too-common leaflet that gets shoved through your door from a local tradesman. It’s printed on cheap paper, likely using a home printer that’s low on ink, and roughly cut with a blunt Stanley knife. How many people do you think trust a roofer who will charge thousands to re-tile their roof when they’ve spent less than £5 on marketing? Not many! The mobile number scrawled at the bottom doesn’t exactly inspire confidence either. It’s no surprise that these leaflets end up in the bin without a second glance.
Poor design reflects poorly on your business, even if you’re exceptional at what you do. Take “Bob the Roofer,” for instance. He’s been tiling roofs for 35 years, probably does a fantastic job, but his low-quality, unprofessional leaflet makes people dismiss his business outright. It’s not about Bob’s skills—it’s about the impression his marketing gives. And if people don’t trust the leaflet, they won’t trust the business.
Now, let’s talk about another common offender—those takeaway leaflets covered in tacky stock photos of kebabs and burgers. Business owners often try to save money by going with the cheapest printers, who offer “free artwork” that looks like it was whipped up in WordArt circa 1995. Sure, you might save a few pounds upfront, but what does that say about your business? If the design looks cheap, your product or service will come across as cheap, too.
We hear it all the time: “Graphic design is easy—you just sit at a computer all day,” or “I can do it myself in Publisher.” It’s only when someone heads to the printers and hears terms like “trim,” “margin,” and “bleed” that the blank faces appear. The truth is, cutting corners on design might seem like a way to save money, but in the long run, it’ll cost you. Poorly designed leaflets won’t generate the interest or business that professionally designed ones will.
Quality design is an investment in your business, not an expense. A well-designed leaflet, brochure, or business card will make you look more professional, generate more interest, and ultimately, lead to more business. It’s that simple.
So, have we grabbed your attention?
If you’re interested in how we can help your business grow, why not get in touch? We’re a friendly team with over 30 years of combined experience and the latest Adobe design software at our fingertips. We’re passionate about what we do, and we love seeing our clients succeed. Give us a call on 0161 327 2131 or drop us an email—we’d love to chat about how we can take your business to the next level!
