Q: How can you create a brochure for us when you know nothing about our company?
A: I learn fast. And although I may not know anything about your company or its products and services — yet — I do know something about human nature. I’m empathetic; I know what it feels like to open or download a brochure, hoping to learn something that will make my business or life better, only to be disappointed in the end by crappy content. Or by walls of text. Or by an overload of jargon. Or by overly salesy content. Or by the same old content I’ve read elsewhere in a dozen other places. I know how to think. I know how to write. I know how to organize. I know how to persuade. I’ve also been doing this work for 15+ years. What more do you need?
Q: How long will it take you to write a new brochure?
A: From kickoff, the process can take from two to three weeks up to a month. It really depends on how large the brochure is, how quickly I can get the information I need, how much research I have to do, how long it takes for the review cycle, and other factors. Once we get into the project, I’ll give you an estimated timeline. I’ll also check in with you frequently throughout the process. I loathe when vendors make me wonder what’s going on, so I make efforts to always keep you in the know.
Q: What about images for the brochure? How does that work?
A: I think visually, and have a great eye for design, so I always offer to find images that map to whatever content I’m creating. If you use a stock photo service, I can choose from there. Or I can use a free photo source if you’d prefer. Either way, I’ll download the images (watermarked from your stock photography service) and add them into the brochure where I think they belong. I’ll also write photo captions if appropriate. If I think a chart or graphic would help readers grasp a concept faster, I’ll work up a rendition for your designer. Sometimes I draw images on paper and then scan them in. Other times I use the SmartArt in Word. It depends on what the situation calls for. Bottom line with graphics is that I can provide lots of direction to your designer if needed.
Q: Can you edit our designed version before we send it to print?
A: Yes, and I always recommend the optional post-design review service to my clients because I’m familiar with the text and the images; I know what we’re going for and can help guide the designer in the right direction. To do so, I either edit a pdf by adding comments, or I prepare a list of changes in Word, whatever you prefer. Note that this service is not included in my package prices. It costs extra -- how much depending on which type of brochure we're creating -- which I'll bill you for after the work is done. If you’d like me to perform this service, just let me know after we get started.
Q: Do you offer rush services? I need a brochure, and want you to do it, but don’t want to wait.
A: Since I can’t create more time in my regular schedule, rush services mean I have to work nights or weekends–-something I don’t really like to do. But I have been known to do so if my personal life happens to be quiet. If you’re interested in rush services and are willing to pay a premium, please contact me and tell me about your project.
Q: What if I have a question you haven’t addressed here?
A: Please let me know! I’ll respond promptly and, if appropriate, add your question to this Q&A to help others who might be wondering the same thing.
Q: I’m sold — how do I say YES?
A: Head back to the brochure packages page and purchase the package that’s right for you. I look forward to working with you, and to helping create a brochure that leads more people to YES!
