I started my own Screen Printing shop last May and it has been quite a learning experience. I have learned so much and I am very confident in my printing. My question to you all is how to drum up business in the slower winter months? In the summer I had no problem getting clients and was working 7 days a week but now things have slowed down a bit and I need some new ideas. I have done some sales calls and I am in a networking group but I was hoping you all might have some novel ideas for me to try.
I belong to 2 networking groups, 1 focus group, and hit every event I am invited to. It has made a huge difference for us in the last 7months since we opened our shop.
I am seriously thinking of joining a 3rd networking group.
Networking has been considerably more effective than any advertising or mailings (that werent for current customers or contacts) we have done.
Direct mailings to current customers and current contacts done the right way will bring interest........if you have something interesting to offer.
One thing I might do when contract work is slow, and you might want to do, is mass email all past customers with some sort of "sale" to drum up business. It was easy in Gmail to make a list of contacts by going through email addresses and conversations.
There is a marketing section on this site, some good ideas there.
Personally, I had a slowdown around the holidays but I have some of my biggest order interests currently. Hopefully they convert!
What about local sports leagues. Parents are always looking for shirts and no matter what time of year there is always a sport being played. Oh and what about cheer and dance teams.
From what I gather from my suppliers, the entire industry is slow right now, so it's not just you.
For me, when I am slow and want the work, I contact my customers and ask them if they know someone that needs screenprinting. They are my best sales reps.
In this business everyone "knows someone that does screenprinting" and personal refers means alot.
Winter Slowdown 
