Your First 90 Days As A Promo Distributor
A STEP-BY-STEP WORKBOOK 
Starting your promo business is exciting! And while it may feel a bit overwhelming, ASI® is here to guide the way. This 90-day plan breaks down exactly what to do, when to do it, and which ASI tools will help you along the way. Follow these steps to build a strong foundation, gain customers, and grow quickly.
Launch your business with confidence and get your first sales fast. 
DAYS 1-30: SET UP YOUR BUSINESS & LEARN THE INDUSTRY 
Key Goals: Get familiar with the promo industry, set up your business, and build your supplier relationships.
Step 1: Join ASI & Unlock Essential Business Tools
Sign up for ASI membership to gain access to:
- ESP®: The #1 product research & sourcing tool.

- Industry-Leading Supplier Network: Work with reliable, vetted suppliers.

- Business Training & Webinars: Learn best practices from industry experts.

- Customizable Marketing Tools: Build a professional website, email templates, and more.

- Action: Watch ASI’s new member training to get started fast.

- Action: Set up your ESP account and explore trending products.

- Benefit: Joining ASI puts you ahead of the competition – giving you the tools you need to grow faster!

Step 2: Set Up Your Business Basics 
- Register your business name and domain.

- Set up a business email (avoid @gmail.com; use your domain).

- Create a simple business plan: Who is your target market? What industries will you sell to?

- Open a business bank account and apply for a resale certificate (if required in your state).

Step 3: Find & Connect With Reliable Suppliers
- Search ESP for suppliers with high ratings and fast shipping.

- Request samples of products you plan to sell.

- Introduce yourself to at least 5-10 key suppliers and ask about:
- Their best-selling products

- Turnaround times

- Minimum order quantities

- Any exclusive ASI member discounts

DAYS 31-60: BUILD YOUR BRAND & START SELLING 
Key Goals: Establish your online presence, market your business, and secure your first customers.
Step 4: Create Your Website & Online Presence 
- Use ASI’s ESP+ Stores to launch a ready-made e-commerce site.

- Upload high-quality product images and descriptions (from ESP).

- Write a strong About Us and Contact page.

- Set up social media pages (LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram).

- Post at least twice a week with product highlights and industry tips.

Step 5: Choose a Niche & Start Prospecting Customers 
- Decide which industry or niche you want to focus on (healthcare, education, real estate, etc.).



- Build a lead list of at least 50 potential clients in that industry.

- Reach out via email, social media, or networking events.

- Offer a free consultation or product sample to get a foot in the door.

Step 6: Get Your First Sale! 
- Send product quotes using ASI’s ESP Quotes tool.

- Explain order minimums, pricing, and branding options clearly.

- Offer multiple product options to fit different budgets. Choices!
- Close the deal and place your first supplier order!

- Tip: ASI’s email marketing tools help you send professional, high-converting outreach emails!

DAYS 61-90: OPTIMIZE & GROW YOUR BUSINESS 
Key Goals: Optimize your processes, expand your client base, and drive repeat business.
Step 7: Deliver Orders & Get Client Feedback 
- Track all orders carefully and update customers on delivery times.



- Follow up after delivery to ensure satisfaction.

- Ask for a testimonial or referral if they’re happy with the product.

Step 8: Automate & Streamline Your Sales Process 
- Use ASI’s CRM tools to manage leads and customers.

- Set up email templates for quick responses.

- Plan a monthly email newsletter featuring new product trends.

- Post regularly on social media to stay visible.

Step 9: Expand Your Client Base & Offer Custom Packages 
- Upsell branded product bundles (e.g., trade show kits, employee welcome boxes).

- Run a limited-time promotion for repeat customers.

- Start networking at local events and trade shows to meet new leads.

Stick to this plan, and by Day 90, you’ll have a running promo business with repeat customers! 
©2025, Advertising Specialty Institute®. All Rights Reserved. 402-481B 0525
JOIN ASI TODAY and start your promo business the right way! 