Member Site

Access ESP+

Careers

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!