I want to share 5 quick ideas that have helped Artik grow in the last few years.
Tip 1. Find your message
In Mad Men, Kodak was struggling to adapt to the new age. Don Draper realized that Kodak represents nostalgia for the past and they should embrace that image.
We did some reflection at Artik and realized that people come to us when they’re ready to bring their ideas to life. Many of our customers are taking a leap of faith – planning an event or a wedding or a new sports team. It’s a scary and exciting moment!
So we redesigned Artik’s brand under the tagline From Design to Reality
Ask yourself, what does your brand represent to people?
Tip 2. Follow the 80/20 rule
A few years ago, we stopped printing business cards at Artik.
Without the noise of business cards and single t-shirt orders, we had time to focus on larger orders of screen printing and embroidery. Our quality went up and our reviews reflected that.How are you spending your time? Take an audit of your activities to see where you’re wasting time and where you’re achieving your goals.
Tip 3. Consider your public image
Last month, about 200 000 Canadians watched Artik on Breakfast Television. They printed t-shirts with us and explored our shop. Watch part 1, 2, 3 and 4 of our interview on BT!
Tip 4. Focus on one platform
We have over 4000 fans on our Facebook page but we’ve been having more fun on Instagram. Posting photos and videos from around the shop has gotten us a lot more likes and comments so we’re focused on that platform.
I’m not saying Instagram is the best social media platform. I’m just saying it’s better to focus your efforts on one site and build a community rather than being distracted trying to maintain a dozen accounts on different platforms.
Tip 5. Branding comes second
Flashy branding won’t help if your work isn’t great. Your reputation is based on your honesty, your quality and your willingness to fix mistakes.
At Artik, we have 33 years of great work behind us and thousands of happy customers. We’re proud of our reputation and we work hard to maintain it.
Here are ten promotional product ideas for your brand. Artik customizes products like these for a ton of companies, bands and organizations looking to raise money or build a name for themselves.
1. Custom printed t-shirts make great staff uniforms |
2. Stainless steel water bottles are loved in offices, gyms and schools |
3. Custom ceramic mugs can be sold to raise money and awareness |
4. Screen printed tote bags are useful and attractive |
 5. Printed hoodies and sweatshirts are cozy all year round |
 6. Personalize your sports uniforms to make your team look great |
7. Custom lapel pins are trendy and affordable branded merch |
8. Embroidered hats are especially popular in the spring/summer |
 9. Embroidered golf shirts are professional and classy |
10. Stand out with smart wallets, power banks and bluetooth speakers |
Your brand is worth the effort
No matter what kind of brand you’re running, there is always room for growth. We’re constantly trying to improve at Artik! Just today I noticed that photos of our work get way more likes on Instagram – clearly people want to see real people making real work, not just reposts of cool designs.
Creating a powerful brand isn’t just graphic design – it involves putting your true self out there and being proud of your work. Even if you never need custom printed merch from Artik, we’re here to chat about branding and being a creative person in Canada. Reach out with an Instagram PM or an email to [email protected]