What are Proven Response Techniques

Here is a checklist of the tried-and-true response devices.

1. Ask for the order throughout your mailing package.

2. Guide your readers along by saying what to do next.

3. Offer the option of responding by mail, by phone or by fax.

4. Take credit card orders.

5. Include the price.

6. Restate your offer in the response device.

7. Always include a business reply card or business reply envelope.

8. Make reply cards and envelopes postage-paid.

9. Follow post office requirements for a business reply card and business reply envelope.

10. Sell in your order form.

11. Highlight your phone number.

12. Prepare your staff for telephone response.

13. Have a toll-free "800" number.

14. Make the reader do something.

15. Use handwritten notes.

16. Highlight the word "free."

17. Say there's no risk, no obligation.

18. Show a picture of your product or free brochure.

19. Tell them to "act now!"