Complete Money-Making

Mail Order Program:

 

 

 

Your Opportunity to become the Publisher and "Prime

Source" without writing and testing

 

An Encyclopedia of Priceless Information!

 

NEW! Mail Order Dealer's

Survival Kit

This Program Contains:

1. Fifteen Copyrighted reports,

2. Marketing Program,

3. Copyrighted circular, and

4. Full reproduction rights

$$$$$$

This information is valuable. Keep it in a safe place.

It has unlimited earning potential for you.

Published by:

Videx, Dept 101, P.O. Box 1664, Stow, Ohio 44224

$$$$$$

NOTICE TO PUBLISHER'S

When selling this information as a complete package, this

cover must be reproduced and included.

$$$$$

(c) Copyright 1986, Fun Mates Press. All rights reserved

LOOK ! An encyclopedia of Priceless Information

You can Print & Sell!

New Mail Order Dealers'

Survival Kit

Now over 100 $-Making, $-Saving 'Trade Secrets'

To Help Make Mail Order Pay Off B-I-G For You!

Here at last! What everyone has been waiting for: The

BASICS" Of Mail Order! Whether "beginner" or "veteran",

here is a genuine opportunity to make mail order business

pay of B-I-G! Every fact-filled page is packed with

brand-new, up-to-date information...dozens of super

$$-making ideas honest $$-saving tips...sensible

shortcuts...valuable "trade secrets" revealed by

successful professionals! Over 10,000 words in all- to

he;p you increase sales AND profits! If purchased

separately elsewhere, this huge wealth of information

would cost you at least $30.00 or MORE!

MORE GOOD NEWS! When you order all of these reports, you

receive full reproduction rights! You then become the

"publisher" the "prime source"! This means you can have

these 1 page reports printed and sell them for whatever

you wish-retail or wholesale! Just one small investment

and you own a COMPLETE ready made mail order business with

unlimited possibilities! Check over the exciting titles of

these new reports. Each is a prize-winner that everyone

will want to buy and read!

1. 13 Ways to get FREE Postage And Envelopes!

2. How To Start Your Own Mailing List Business!

3. 17 Methods For Getting FREE Advertising!

4. How To Have Your Circulars Printed & Mailed FREE!

5. 10 Secrets For Making Money Selling "big Mails"!

6. Over 2 Dozen Dealers That Offer FREE Mailing Lists!

7. Over 2 Dozen Suppliers Of FREE Commission Circulars!

8. How To Publish Your Own $$-Making Adsheet!

9. 15 Suggestions For Cutting High Printing Costs!

10. How To Rake In Profits As A "Circular Mailer"!

11. 4 Ways To Make The Biggest Earnings As A "Prime

Source"!

12. How To Design Winning Ads With Your Own "CR" Copy!

13. 15 "Do's & "Don't's" For Writing Powerful Mail Order

Ads!

14. How To Pick The Best Publications In Which To

Advertise!

15. How To Set Up A Simple, Low-Cost Record/Bookkeeping

System!

SPECIAL BONUS OFFER! Order all 15 reports for just $10 and

you will receive: (1) Full Reproduction Rights, (2) A

complete Marketing Program showing you 8 ways to sell

these reports, and (3) The right to reprint this powerful,

copyrighted circular with your own name! You can have

these reports printed for pennies, but sell them for at

least $1 each! Or, have all 15 printed for about the same

cost as 3 first class stamps. Then sell the whole program

- including reprint rights-for at least $10! As the

"publisher", your profits are 95% and MORE!

Invest in your FUTURE!......Invest in YOURSELF!

ORDER NOW

RUSH TO: Enclose is___________Please rush me the reports

circled below. (Add 10% for 1st class delivery)

YES! 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 All 15

PRINT Name_______________________Address_________________

City__________________State_______________Zip

Code_________

 

8 EASY WAYS TO SELL THESE REPORTS FOR FAST PROFITS....

#FMS-00

this notice gives you permission to reproduce all items

contained in this package! Cover, Circular, All 15 Reports

& This Marketing Program. Before printing the circular,

insert your name and address in the coupon. Also,, if you

wish, insert your name and address after the words

"Published by:" (where our name appears), on the bottom of

the cover and at the top of the reports numbered "FMS-01"

through "FMS=15".

CAUTION: Do NOT remove the copyright notice ("Copyright

(year) Fun Mates Press") from any of these materials. If

this information is deleted you will be held responsible!

This program was specifically designed to appeal to the

mail order community-veteran mail order dealers, and

especially to the thousands and thousands of beginners,

and those thinking of starting their own mail order

business- and who are in the need of this valuable

information. Here are some suggestions on how you can make

these reports pay off for you:

1. Insert the copyrighted circular in your outgoing mail;

mail it to advertisers in mail order publications and your

own & purchased lists.

2. Run inexpensive classified ads under "Business

Opportunities" or "Money-Making Opportunities" in national

newspapers and magazines. Send the circular to all

inquiries. Here is the type of ad to run:

EARN $9.50 ON EVERY $10 SALE! Sell information

by mail! No experience needed! Learn how NOW!

(Your name and address here)

3. Place small ads in mail order trade publications such

as these:

EARN $9.50 ON EVERY $10 SALE! OR ATTENTION MAIL ORDER

DEALERS!

Sell new, wanted and up-to-date "10 Ways To Make

Money Selling

information, the mail order world Big Mails"! "How To

Have Your

has been waiting for! Profits of Circulars Printed

& Mailed Free"!

95% more are yours! Details for "How To Start Your

Own Mailing

Self-addressed stamped envelope: List Business"! Only

$1 each! All

(your name and address here) 3 just $2! (Your

name and address)

4. Some of these reports will sell quite well direct from

small classified and display ads. The best way to use this

method is to offer a single report for $1.00. Then fill

the order with the report PLUS a copy of the circular

which offers all 15 reports. Here is an example:

DON'T BUY MAILING LISTS! Get them FREE! New!

"Over 2 Dozens Dealers That Offer Free Mailing

Lists", just $1.00! (Your name and address here)

5. Have a 3x6 circulars printed and include them in your

outgoing mail to other mail order dealers. List a few

reports by title, selling them for at least $1 each, or

say 3 for $2 or 6 for $5.

6. In addition to giving you a nice profit, these reports

can be used to build up your mailing list. Because these

reports are so cheap to print, you can offer them

free-just for getting a fresh name.

7. FREE ADVERTISING! if you offer free mailing lists

and/or free commission circulars, list yourself at the

bottom of Reports #FMS-06 and #FMS-07. When you fill these

orders, include the circular.

8. Reduce the circular 1/2 size and use it as a 5 1/2" x 8

1/2" circular or display ad. Or order this CR art for

$1.00 plus 2 first class stamps from: Fun Mates Press Adv.

Dept FMS/OO, Box 6466, San Francisco, CA 94101.

Fun Mates also has professionally designed 3x6 circulars

to help you sell these reports. For illustrations and

reprint rights prices, send a long SASE to us. Ask for

"info" on the Survival Kit 3x6 circulars".

14 WAYS TO GET FREE POSTAGE AND ENVELOPES.... #FMS-01

Copyright 1983, Fun Mates Press. Printed as news &

information only

Published by: FUN MATES PRESS, P.O. Box 6466, San

Francisco, CA 94101.

1. Weigh mail carefully. Never try to guess the weight of

letters and parcels. (You'll probably over-estimate the

weight!) The money you save is the same as getting free

postage for other uses.

2. Buy postal cards from your Post Office. Rubber stamp,

write or type your message on the back. Or, have the cards

printed. Post cards travel as first class for about 1/3rd

less than a regular letter. This is the same as getting

free postage and envelopes.

3. Use 3rd class mail for letters weighing over one once.

The saving is almost one-third at present...free postage

for better uses.

4. Investigate 4th class "Book Rates".. Certain printed

materials can be sent for considerably less this way.

Pocket this as free postage.

5. Use "Bulk Rate" postage. By buying a permit number &

paying an annual fee, you can reduce almost half when

mailing at least 200 identical pieces at the same time.

Get details from your Post Office. The "free postage"

allows you to mail almost twice as much for the same cost.

6. Use "Pre-Cancelled" stamps. Same as #5 above, but you

do not have to purchase a "Bulk Rate" permit number. This

gives you MORE "free postage".

7. Request a SASE (self-addressed stamped envelope) in all

your advertised offers. You then get both free stamps and

envelopes for the return trip!

8. Use paid "mailers" to distribute your sales materials.

Your costs are then reduced considerably...like getting

free postage and envelopes.

9. Print your own adsheet. You can make money, get free

advertising and your readers do most of the mailing, (Free

postage & envelopes). Read "How To Publish A $$$-Making

Adsheet"-Just $1 from above publisher.

10. Establish An "Exchange Mail Program". Tell other

dealers you will mail a certain quantity of their

circulars if they will send out a like amount of yours..

Include their circulars with your regular outgoing mail..

You cut your expenses...like getting free envelopes and

postage.

11. Print both sides of your circulars. You can then get

twice as many offers in the same envelope for the

identical amount of postage, as you could if you printed

your circulars on one side only.. This is the same as

getting twice as much postage at half the cost...free

postage.

12. Consider United Parcel Service.. UPS makes fast, safe

deliveries within the United States. Air shipments of

parcels generally cost less than USPS parcel post. Put

these savings in your piggy bank as free postage.

13. Offer a freebie, such as a 1-page report everyone will

want to read. (It will cost you only 3 cents to 4 cents to

print!) Run ads offering the report "FREE for a SASE &

loose 1st class stamp". Fill orders will the free report

plus some of the regular offers. You get free stamps and

envelopes, and your materials travel free also. Plus, you

also receive a free stamp for a future follow-up mailing!

14. Eliminate envelopes for mailing 8 1/2" x 11"

circulars. Add a blank sheet of paper to the outside of

the packet and fold in half. Fasten with a staple. No

envelopes are required...free envelopes for other

purposes.

Read "How To Weigh Your Mail Without A Scale"! This new

idea gives two easy NO-COST home methods for accurately

weighing mail without investing in an expensive scale.

Just $2 from above Publisher, or Fun Mates Press-FMS-01,

P.O. Box 6466, San Francisco, CA 94101.

HOW TO START YOUR OWN MAILING LIST BUSINESS.... #FMS-02

Copyright 1986, Fun Mates Press. Printed as news &

information only.

Published by : FUN MATES PRESS, P.O. Box 6466, San

Francisco, CA 94101

Selling mailing lists can prove to be a profitable

sideline to any mail order business. Many dealers reply on

"direct mail" to promote their goods or services.. They

are always interested in good, fresh prospects.

The most popular classifications of names are "Opportunity

Seekers", "Cash Customers" and "Mail Order Dealers".. Mail

order dealers are the easiest names to obtain. To get

them,, all you have to do is copy the names & addresses of

advertisers from current mail order trade publications.

For a good selection of mail order magazines and

newspapers, and answer ads for "Big Mails".

"Opportunity Seekers" are those that are looking for ways

to earn extra income. "Cash Customers" are simply those

that have made purchases.

Never copy somebody else's lists. This could involve you

in "copyright infringement", a federal offense.. Also, you

could be duplicating old, stale lists. To be successful,

your names & addresses must be fresh and accurate. This

will keep your customers coming back again and again.

To start, you need a typewriter or someone to type the

names for you.... Look in your Yellow Pages under

"Secretarial Services". Or, contact mail order dealers who

sell names.. Many of them will do your typing at

reasonable rates. Another suggestion is to contact the

typing teacher of your local high school or business

college.. Students love to earn spending money-and it's

good practice for them, too.

The best way to have the names typed is across the

page.... Use white paper and a fresh black or red

typewriter ribbon-never blue.. Each 8 1/2" x 11" page will

easily hold 50 names. Each page should also be carefully

coded in either upper corner as to the page number,

classification and date typed. Use any code you wish, but

one of the easiest is like this: "3CC10169". This means

page 3, cash customers, typed October 16, 1979.

The date is extremely important.. People change addresses

rapidly in this country. Names more than 6 months old may

be outdated. After this period of time, it is best to

throw these names away. Or, you can make a "follow-up"

mailing to each name on your lists. Send these letters

first class with your return address plainly visible.

Those that are "nixies" (undeliverable for one reason or

another), should be deleted. Instead of typing the

complete corrected list over again, you can have

replacement names typed on a separate piece of paper. Then

carefully cut out and paste a replacement name over each

name that is no longer usable.

After the names are neatly typed,, take them to your

printer. It will cost you about 3 cents to 4 cents to have

each sheet printed, if you order 100 copies at a time.

This means that every 100 copies of each page will cost

you between $3 and $4, but can be worth $100.00 to $300.00

-depending upon what you decide to charge per 100 names.

The best way to establish the "going price" is to check

the ads of other mailing list dealers in mail order trade

publications. Never charge the most, or the least. The

middle of the road is always best.

To promote your new mailing list service, run ads like

this: FREE 50 fresh names of Opportunity Seekers! Free

for long self-addressed stamped envelope! (Your name &

address)". Ads like this will save you postage and

envelope costs.

When orders come in from your free list, also include a

price list of other names you have for sale. Somewhere on

your price list, say something like "GUARANTEED

DELIVERABLE! We supply 10 free names for every one that is

returned!" This will cinch the sale, keep your customers

happy and coming back for more!

And for every customer that answers your ads and/or buys

names from you, you have another name to add to your

mailing lists!

17 METHODS FOR GETTING FREE ADVERTISING... FMS-03

Copyright 1986, Fun Mates Press, Printed as news & Information only.

Published by: FUN MATES PRESS, P.O. Box 6466, San Francisco, CA 94101

1. Place copies of your circular on bulletin boards throughout your community, such as in coin-operated laundries, grocery stores, barber shops, etc. Concentrate of Fridays and Saturdays when shopping increases.

2. Check with local newspapers. Before going to press, many smaller newspapers have space left that needs filling.. Your ad may be just the right size to occupy this unfilled space and they will run it free,

3. Place your circulars on windshields of parked autos, Youngsters will be happy to do this for you for a dollar or two. Check first with city ordinances to see if this is permitted in your locality.

4. Leave sales literature on doorsteps of homes & businesses in your area. Do this on weekends in residential areas; weekdays for businesses.

5. For free advertising listings, send a long self-addressed stamped envelope to Fun Mates Press -FM/03, Box 6466, San Francisco, CA 9401. Ask for a copy of their _Free Advertising Survey_ form.

6. Have your best pulling 1_ or 2_ ad made into a rubber stamp. Stamp this on envelopes of all of your outgoing mail.. Check rubber stamp dealer_s ads in current mail order publications for price information.

7. When you have envelopes printed with your return address, have them also print your best ad directly beneath your address. It costs noting additional to have this printed on the front of your envelopes.

8. If you publish a mail order magazine, newspaper, adsheet, etc., contact other publishers, If your circulation is equal to theirs, many will be happy to exchange an equal amount of ad space with you.

9. Many publishers will give you free adspace for mailing a few copies of their publication. Simply write to them and ask if they will give you a free 1_ ad in exchange for mailing 50 to 100 copies of their pub.

10. Write informative articles for mail order trade publication. Most publishers will give you free ad space for the use of your article.

11. Take advantage of advertising _specials_. Many publishers offer ads on a 3-for-the- price- of -2- basis, or 4-for-the-price-of-3, etc. This saving is the same as getting one ad free of charge.

12. Some publishers offer a free classified ad with your first display ad. Watch for such specials. Use the free ad and pocket the savings.

13. When starting a new publication, many publishers will offer reduced ad rates to help fill space. Watch for ads regarding such offers.

14. In your ads, request a SASE. Then insert some of your other offers in regular outgoing mail. This is the same as getting free advertising.

15.. become a _mailer_. get your printer_s lowest price for printing circulars on both sides of the sheet. Contact other dealers and state you will print and mail their circulars for this price _with no conflicting ads on the back_. Then print your circulars on the reverse and distribute them with your outgoing mail. There is no extra cost for postage and envelopes, and your side of the circular is paid for by your customers.

16. Offer a free commission circulars. Print one of your regular offers on one side; a commission offer on the reverse, leaving space where the mailer can rubber stamp his name & address, Your offer gets a free ride,

17. If you use a postage meter machine, use the ad space directly left of stamp imprint for a free message.

 

HOW TO HAVE YOUR CIRCULARS PRINTED & MAILED FREE....

#FMS-04

Copyright 1986, Fun Mates Press. Printed as news &

information only.

Published by: FUN MATES PRESS, P.O. Box 6466, San

Francisco, CA 94101

Experienced mail order dealers realize the importance of

keeping operating expenses at a minimum. You should too.

Here's the easy way to cut your printing and mailing

costs.

FREE PRINTING

Let us say you wish to have 500 8 1/2" x 11" circulars

printed. First, you should check with local and/or mail

order printers, for the lowest price for printing 500 8

1/2" x 11" circulars on BOTH SIDES. We will say the best

price you receive is $20.00

 

The next step is to advertise in mail order newspapers and

magazines that you will "print & mail" 500 8 1/2 "x 11"

circulars. ONE SIDE ONLY- for $20.00. When your customer

sends his check for $20.00, it will pay for printing both

sides. Your side us printed FREE! You can use this same

idea for 100, 500, 1,000, 5,000, 10,000 or any quantity

you wish.

And if you slip one of these circulars into your regular

outgoing mail every day, you won't have additional

expenses for postage and envelopes!

FREE MAILING

The easiest way to have your circulars mailed free is to

have other dealers do it for you! By using this method,

you cut your expenses by saving the cost on postage,

envelopes and mailing lists. You also eliminate the cost

of labor for addressing envelopes, folding, stuffing,

etc.,etc..

The secret is to advertise that you have a program

available that offers free circulars that pay commissions

of 50%, 75% or whatever you wish. The greater the

commission you offer, the more takers you will get.

Then have your circulars printed with your name and

address on one side, and leave the order form blank on the

reverse side. This where the other dealers can rubber

stamp their name and address. They will be happy to mail

the circulars for you for their commission. Remember

again, the greater the commission you offer, the more

eager other dealers will be to get your circulars in the

mail for you.

If you get just 10 dealers to mail 100 circulars each,

that's 1,000 potential sales! Your postage savings alone

will be considerable.

And keep in mind that in addition to your receiving the

full amount of every sale on your side of the circulars,

you will also be receiving the balance of the mailer's

commission from the reverse side.

If you don't wish to spend money on advertising this

program, you can save here too! Many dealers that would be

interested in mailing your commission circulars advertise

regularly in the many mail order trade publications.

Simply tell them about your program in a short letter and

send them a sample of your circular. Most will take you up

on your offer.

If you would like a sample copies of some of the best mail

order newspapers and magazine a around, send a couple of

first class stamps to any or all of the following

publishers and ask for a current copy!

MAIL ORDER BULLETIN, Artcraft Press, Box 55, Mankato, MN

56001

TIMELY TIPS, 521 N. Williams St.,Paulding, OH 45879

POPULAR ADVERTISER, 993 Meadowlawn S.E., Salem< OR 97301

ODDS AND ENDS, Robert H Clampitt, PO Box 10797, Chicago,

IL 60610

IDEAS UNLIMITED, Profit Tools, 3824 Elm Lane, Oshkosh, WI

54901

MAIL ORDER MESSENGER, MPM, PO Box 17131, Memphis, TN 38137

Other worthwhile information "14 Ways To Get Free Postage

And Envelopes" - now available for just $1.00 from the

above Publisher or Fun Mates Press - FMS/04, P.O. Box

6466, San Francisco, CA 94101.

 

10 SECRETS FOR MAKING MONEY SELLING "BIG MAILS"....

#FMS-05

Copyright 1986, Fun Mates Press. Printed as news and

Information only.

Published by: FUN MATES PRESS, P.O. Box 6466, San

Francisco, CA 94101.

An easy way to earn money in mail order is by selling "Big

Mails".

This consists of a packet of your own circulars, plus an

assortment of mail order publications. To begin, you must

place ads in these magazines and newspapers to become a

"co-publisher",, agreeing to mail a certain number of

copies of each issue - which are generally free. Here are

some of the ways you can earn by selling Big Mails:

Run ads saying: BIG MAIL - 50 cents!

Hundreds of $-making, $-saving

offers! (your name

and

address

When orders arrive, stuff envelopes with as many mail

order publications as possible. Also include your own

circulars. Save postage by mailing 3rd class "Bulk Rate",

Here' how you will cash in:

1. You earn from orders from your circulars included with

the Big Mails.

2. You earn from orders from your ads in the mail

publications.

3. You collect 50% commission from ad orders you receive.

4. You collect 50% commission from all subscriptions you

receive.

5. You collect 50% commission from all listings you sell.

6. By collecting the names of those ordering your Big

Mails, you can sell them as "opportunity seekers",

7. Many publications will design and typeset your ads

free. You save by using these small ads in publications

that charge for this service.

9. By running ads like the one below, you pocket

commissions from circulars other dealers provide you free

of charge:

BIG MAIL - 50 cents!

Commission circulars paying 50%

mailed free! (your name and address)

9. By running ads like the one below, you get paid to mail

circulars for other mail order dealers:

PROFESSIONAL CIRCULAR MAILING!

We mail 500 per week to fresh,

responsive names. per 100: 3 x6,

75 cents; 5 1/2 x 8 1/2, $1.00;

8 1/2 x 11, $1.50. Commission

circulars

paying 50% or more mailed FREE!

(your name and address)

10. Run ads like those below. To fill orders for the ad at

the right, you simply send the names offered in the ad at

the left. When filling order s for both ads, be sure to

include plenty of your own circulars.

RECEIVE 100'S OF BIG MAILS! Your FREE

MAILING LIST! Fresh, hot

name sent to 100's of mail order

prospects! Opportunity seekers

firms! They will send you their

eager for your best offers!

best offers! Rush $1.00 NOW

Rush $1.00 and long SASE!

(your name and address)

(your name and address)

Read "How To Receive Over $235 Worth Of Big Mails FREE!"

Tells how to get almost 25 pounds of big mails free for

the asking, or just a few postage stamps! It's terrific

offer! Send $2 to above Publisher or Fun Mates Press -

FMS/05, P.O. Box 6466, San Francisco, CA 94101.

OVER 2 DOZEN DEALERS THAT OFFER FREE MAILING LISTS....

#FMS-06

Copyright 1985, Fun Mates Press. Printed as news &

information only.

Published by: FUN MATES PRESS, P.O. Box 6466, San

Francisco, CA 94101.

The dealers listed below supply FREE mailing lists. The

names furnished are Opportunity Seekers, Cash Customers,

prospects who have responded to ads and/or paid to be

listed.

To receive their latest free list of names, send each

source below a long (#10 size) stamped envelope addressed

to yourself, plus a loose first class stamp.

(this list was current at time of publication. Publisher

is not responsible for changes in address and/or company

policy).

FUN MATES PRESS- FMS/O6, P.O. Box 6466, San Francisco, CA

94101.

LELLI M. O. C., Box 115B- Rte 2, Loundonville, OH 44842.

RUSSELL ADVERTISING, Box 612, New Philadelphia, OH 44663

SLONE PUBLICATIONS, PO Box 35, Manton, KY 41648

G.M. SNYDER, 1645 Mathews, Riverside, CA 92507

MARY JO'S MAILORDER SERVICE, PO Box 1728,, Litchfield

Park, AZ 85340

ANNIS FERGUSON, RTe 1 -FMP, DuBoise, IN 47527

GRANTELLO, 111 E. Bird, Hamilton, MO 64644

LAMBERT HOUSE, 745 Riverside Ave.,Elizabeth City, NC 27909

RMP INTERNATIONAL, PO Box 337, San Andreas, CA 95249

SHERRY LYNN'S, 226 E. Norris Dr.,Ottawa, IL 61350

TOM DORSER, 518 Lynbrook Blvd.,Shreveport, LA 71106

THE CRACKER BARREL, Box 618, Aromas, CA 95004

FRONTIER SPECIALTY, 5 South Pioneer St.,Alden, KS 67512

F.M. HAGER, Box 404-FL, North Grafton, MA 01536

LEASH PUBLICATIONS, 2425 Cambridge Rd.,York, PA 17402

KAY,, Box 135, Dorion, P.Q., Canada J7V 5W1

MIDSOUTH PUBLISHING, Box 877, Sheffield, AL 35660

P.C. ADAMS, 301 Atlantic Ave.,New Orleans, LA 70114

JOSEPH HILLERY, PO Box 42388, Washington, DC 20015

JIM DUFF, 14918 Verdura, Paramount, CA 90723

ALICE WIXSON ENTERP[RISES, 221 Richardson - FM, Alpena, MI

49707

MIDWEST DICOUNT SERVICE, PO BOx 668, Sidney, IA 51652

THOMAS MONGEON, 9078 Eglise Ave.,Downey, CA 90240

HAVEN ENTERPRISES, POO Box 1195, Santa Ana, CA 92701

MAIL ORDER DEALERS: If you offer free mailing lists for a

self-addressees envelope and loose first class stamp, add

you name to this list before you have this report printed.

OVER 2 DOZEN SUPPLIERS OF FREE COMMISSION CIRCULARS

Copyright 1985, Fun Mates Press. Printed as news &

information only.

Published by: FUN MATES PRESS, P.O. Box 6466, San

Francisco, CA 94101.

A selection of FREE commission circulars is available from

each of the sources below. These circulars come in several

sizes and are generally available with space provided for

you to write or rubber stamp your name and address before

mailing.

When cash in-advance orders come to you, you keep your

commission and send the balance to the source along with

your shipping label already addressed to your customer.

The dealer will ship your order direct.

To receive free commission circulars, each source requires

you to send a long (#10 size) envelope addressed to

yourself, plus a loose first class postage stamp.

(This list was current at time of publication. Publisher

is not responsible for changes in address and/or company

policy).

FUN MATES PRESS - Dept FMS/07, Box 6466, San Francisco, CA

04101

GEM STATE AGENCY, INC.,PO Drawer 229, Twin Falls, ID 83301

A.C. FELIX MAIL SERVICE, 4009 Carpenter, Bronx, NY 10466

RUSSELL ADVERTISING, PO Box 512, New Philadelphia, OH

44663

SELMAR BROOKS PUBLISHING CO.,126 Homecrest Station,

Brooklyn, NY 11229

ORVAL L. STEINER ENTERPRISES, 13409 Crenshaw, Hawthorne,

CA 90250

H. HOWARD AND SON, 11 Dana Rd.,Maynard, MA 01754

MARY JO'S MAILORDER SERVICE, PO BOx 1728, Litchfield Park,

AZ 85340

NEIL HOLLAND, Box 856, Jackson Hts.,NY 11372

ANNIS FERGUSON, R #1-FMP, DuBois, IN 47527

WAYNE'S PRINTING SERVICE, Rte 2, Myrtle, MS 38650

GRANTELLO, 111 E. Bird, Hamilton. MO 64644

LAMBERT HOUSE, 745 Riverside Ave.,Elizabeth City, NC 27909

RMP INTERNATIONAL, PO Box 3378, San Andreas, CA 95249

SHERRY LYNN'S, 226 E. Norris Dr.,Ottawa, IL 61350

TOM DOSTER, 518 Lynbrook Blvd.,Shreveport, LA 71106

THE CRACKER BARRELL, Box 618, Aromas, CA 95004

FRONTIER SPECIALTY, 5 South Pioneer St.,Alden, KS 67512

F.M. Hager, Box 404-FL, North Grafton, MA 01536

ALVIN O STRAUSS, 4703 N. 51 Blvd.,Milwaukee, WI 53218

C.M. Baker, PO Box 884, London, KY 40741

LEONARD PALMER, Suite 103, 2800 West Broward, Ft

Lauderdale, FL 33312

SLONE PUBLICATIONS, PO Box 35, Manton, KY 41648

JOHNNY TSE, PO Box 705, New York, NY 10002

G.M. SNYDER, 1645 Mathews, Riverside, CA 92507

Mail Order Dealers: If you offer free commission circulars

for a self-addressed stamped envelope and loose first

class stamp, add your name to this list before you have

this report printed.

HOW TO PUBLISH YOUR OWN MONEY-MAKING ADSHEET.... #FMS-08

Copyright 1986, Fun Mates Press. Printed as news &

information only.

Published by: FUN MATES PRESS, P.O.. Box 6466, San

Francisco, CA 94101.

Before printing your own adsheet, careful planning is

necessary.

First, how many copies will be printed? Next, decide if

your adsheet will be printed on white paper or colored

stock. Colored papers may cost slightly more, but are more

attractive and eye-appealing.

You must also decide if your adsheet will be printed on

one or both sides of the paper. It is best to use both

sides for greater profits.

After you have made these decisions, contact printers for

prices.

You may wish to check with local as well as mail order

printers. Mail order printer's prices are generally lower,

but be sure to request samples of some of their prices are

generally lower, but be sure to request samples of some of

their previous jobs to determine the quality of their

work. Also, make certain the paper they use is 20# bond or

heavier.

After you have the above information, your nest step is to

decide on a name for your adsheet and design the masthead

- or have it done by someone. You will need you know in

advance the amount of space the masthead will occupy so

that you can compute your ad rates accurately. Also, if

you decide to show your ad rates within the masthead or

nearby, remember that the space used for this purpose is

"Nonsalable" and must be deducted from the space you will

have available to your advertisers.

As a novice adsheet-publisher, it is wisest to keep your

first publication as simple as possible. The best way to

present your customer's ads is by running them in 3 neat

columns down the vertical length of an 8 1/2" x 11" sheet.

Allow each column to be 2-5/8" wide, with a ruled line

separating each column, so that you can accommodate ads up

to the standard 2 1/4 to 2 1/2-inch widths.

After you have price quotations from printers, you are

ready to establish your advertising rate. Then 11" length

of an 8 1/2' x 11" sheet will accommodate a total of 30

one-inch ads nicely. However, you must deduct the amount

of space occupied by the masthead. We will assume that

this space is 2" deep and the full width of the paper.

Therefore, you now have a total of 24 column inches of

space available for ads. (30" minus 6")/

We will also assume you will have 1,000 copies printed-

both sides- on a colored stock. The lowest price you have

received is $18 plus 10% additional for colored paper.

This totals to $19.80. Since you have a total of 24" of

space to sell, your cost is about 83 cents per co;. inch.

You should charge your advertisers $1.25 to $2.00 per

inch, which will give you a gross total of anywhere from

$30 to $48. Some of the profits must be used for

"incidental" expenses such as advertising, postage, etc.

Next, you must get advertisers. You can do this in several

ways: (1) Run ads in mail order publications saying you

will print a 1" ad - 1,000 circulation for whatever you

decide to charge, if the advertiser will maill 25 to 50

copies, and (2) Write to prospective advertisers, whose

ads you see in other mail order publications, telling of

your new adsheet.

New adsheet publishers very seldom are able to sell all

the available space for the first issue. To fill empty

s[aces, simply run some of your own ads or run free ads

for advertisers. Then send them a complimentary copy of

your adsheet with their ad. Many may be impressed by the

favor you have done for them and place paid ads in future

issues.

The greatest quantity will be mailed by your advertisers.

You can distribute your copies of the adsheet simply by

stuffing one into all of your regular outgoing mail. This

saves you on postage and envelopes.

You may charge whatever you wish for your ad rates. But

they must be competitive. And don't be too greedy! After

all, remember, until you sell all the available ad space,

you will have the entire reverse side of your adsheet for

your own ads...and this space is FREE!

15 SUGGESTIONS FOR REDUCING PRINTING COSTS.... #FMS-09

Copyright 1986, Fun Mates Press. Printed as news &

information only.

Published by: FUN MATES PRESS, P.O. Box 6466, San

Francisco, CA 94101.

1. Use mail order printers. Ordering printing by mail

generally costs less because these printers have less

overhead. Answer ads in mail order publications and

compare prices. Always request samples.

2. Order larger quantities. Before an offset printer runs

your job, he must photograph the camera-ready copy & make

a printing plate. This is necessary whether you order 1,

100 or 10,000 copies and is included in the "base" price.

If you have an effective sales piece, you can save

considerably by ordering more units, less often,

3. Avoid 2 and 3-color print jobs. If your materials do a

good selling job printed with black and white ink on

colored paper. Pocket the savings!

4. Use black ink only. Printers are geared to print with

black ink. When you order a job printed in any other

color, you will generally be charged extra for cleaning

the press before and after your print job.

5.. Avoid rip-off prime sources that requires you to buy

their sales materials directly from them. Generally, their

products are poor sellers, but they make money off printed

circulars, envelopes, etc.,you are forced to buy from them

- at a highly inflated prices. Don't be gypped! Honest

dealers will let you order printing from whomever you

please.

6. Print both sides of the sheet. Since the cost of paper

your jobs requires is also included in the base price, by

printing both sides of the page, you can save. (this can

also reduce your postage costs!)

7. Submit PERFECT camera-ready copy.. If you require the

printer to make changes on the original, he will charge

extra. (read "How To Design Winning Ads With Your Own "CR"

Copy" - just $1 from above Publisher).

8. Avoid large "reverses" (black solids). It is difficult

for any printer to get good ink coverage if there are

large reverses (black with white lettering), and many

charge as much as 25% extra. A well designed sales piece

does not have to rely on reverses to get attention.

9. Use standard paper sizes. Ordering printing on unusual

sizes or types of paper requires press adjustments. This

increases printing costs.

10. Order a "photo reduction". Standard typewritten copy

can be reduced 25% to 33 1/3% and be legible. If your

sales message runs to sat 1 1/4 t 1 1/3 pages, you can

have it reduced to fit a regular 8 1/2" x 11" sheet and

save printing. Most printers will do this for a small fee.

11. Avoid duplication. If you keep accurate records, you

can reduce printing bills simply by not sending the same

materials over and over again to the same customers. (read

"How To Set Up A Simple, Low-Cost Record/Bookkeeping

System" - only $1.00 from above Publisher).

12. "Cut" copy. If your message is handwritten or typed,

and fills more than one 8 1/2" x 11" page, try rewriting

the copy and eliminating unnecessary words. It will then

cost you less,to have it printed.

13. Sum up offers. If you have many items to sell, instead

of sending a separate circular advertising each offer

(which also increases postage costs), you can mention them

all on one or two pages. Just list the items and give a

brief description. At the bottom of the page, say

something like "For additional information, check the

items that interest you most and return this entire sheet

with a long SASE."

14. Avoid printer's "convenience" services. A printer's

basic job is printing! But may also perform other services

such as collating, folding, stapling, etc.. You can save

much for your printing bill if you do many of these easy

little chores yourself.

15. "Make a deal!" Some smaller, local printers may give

you a "discount" if you promise to use him exclusively for

all of your printing needs.

HOW TO RAKE IN PROFITS AS A "CIRCULAR MAILER".... #FMS-10

Copyright 1986, Fun Mates Press. Printed as news &

information only.

Published by: FUN MATES PRESS, P.O. Box 6466, San

Francisco, CA 94101.

The simplest way to start making money in mail order is to

become a "mailer" of commission circulars. It's easy - no

previous experience is needed. You can earn good profits

by working just a few hours a day.

Very little investment is required. About all you have to

buy are stamps, envelopes, a rubber stamp with your name

and address, and a stamp pad. There's no inventory - you

don't have to stock a single item. And the circulars you

will be mailing are generally free of charge, or for

postage, or a small $1 or $2 fee.

You will also need names of people to mail the circulars

to, It is not a good idea to copy them from a phone book.

You can buy names from firms that specialize in selling

mailing lists. But you can also get free mailing lists!

THIS IS HOW THE PROGRAM WORKS:

Most suppliers will provide you with all the free

circulars you care to mail, for a very good reason. True,

the more you mail, the more you can earn. But also, the

more circulars you mail, the more dealers can earn!

The circulars supplied are generally printed on both

sides. One side is for you; the other side for the

dealer.. On your side, there is a blank space where you

can write or rubber stamp your name and address. This is

the side that pays you a commission - usually 50% or 75%

of the sale.

But some will pay you as much as 100% You keep the full

amount you receive.

The other side of the circular is the dealer's side. Any

sale resulting from this side goes directly to the dealer

or "prime source".

DROP-SHIPPING AND HOW IT WORKS

Earlier we mentioned that when you become a circular

mailer,you do not have to invest in any type of inventory

by stocking merchandise. This is where "drop-shipping"

enters the picture.

When a customer send you an order, the supplier fills it.

All you do is deduct your commission and send the balance

to the dealer.. in other words, for a $100 sale that pays

a 75% commission, you keep $7.50 and send the remaining

$2.50 to the dealer. On sales that pay 100% commission,

you keep the entire sale. (sometimes the dealer requests

you send a few postage stamps for shipping the ordered

item to your customer),

In many cases, the supplier also asks that you provide him

with a shipping label (available from variety and

stationery stores) or stamped envelope.. You write or

rubber stamp your name and address as the sender, dealer.

In cases where you send a label, write on the back of it

the name of the item ordered. For envelopes, write this

information inside the envelope flap.. This prevents

mixups.

The reason for your providing the pre-addressed label or

envelope is to make it appear that the merchandise is

being sent directly by you.

The amount of money you can earn as a circular mailer

depends upon you.. The more time you devote to mailing

commission circulars, the better your opportunities for

earning a greater income

NEED COMMISSION CIRCULARS & MAILING LISTS? Over 100

suppliers will send you FREE commission circulars paying

you 50%, 75%, even 100%! Over 100 dealers will send you

FREE mailing lists...over 4,000 new, fresh names! Your

choice of either "over 100 Sources of FREE Commission

Circulars" OR "Over 100 sources of FREE Mailing Lists"

just $3 each! ORDER BOTH for only $5! Order from above

Publisher or Fun Mates Press - FMS/10, Box 6466, San

Francisco, CA 94101.

4 WAYS TO MAKE THE BIGGEST EARNINGS AS THE "PRIME

SOURCE".... #FMS-11

Copyright 1986, Fun Mates Press. Printed as news &

information only.

Published by: FUN MATES PRESS. P.O. Box 6466, San

Francisco, CA 94101

New ideas pay the biggest dividends in ANY business -

INCLUDING mail order. if you can think of something that

is new, different and has "mass appeal", you will probably

make more money than anyone else. When you make such new

ideas available, you become the "prime source". There are

four ways to pocket the biggest profits this way - with

very little effort!

1. WRITE SOMETHING THAT EVERYONE WANTS TO BUY & READ!

Good, honest information is one of the mail order's top

sellers! There are thousands of "HOW TO" books, reports,

folios, etc. on sale, but there's always room for more

fresh ideas. Especially if you can come up with some new

way to increase income, save money, or save time.

Let us say you write a 1-page report, which you can sell

for at least $1.00. To have 100 copies offset printed will

cost you $3 to $4. The retail value of 100 copies is $100!

Deduct your printing cost and your profit is between $96

and $97! If you write several dozen such 1-page reports,

and they all sell well, can you see the tremendous

potentials?

You will have to spend some money for advertising. But you

can cut this down by offering the reports to other dealers

on a dropship basis, let's say on a 50% commission. Then

they do all the work and you collect 50 cents on every

sale. Since it cost you only 3 cents to 4 cents to have

each report printed, your profit is still 46 cents to 47

cents on every sale!

2. BUY THE "REPRINT" *REPRODUCTION) RIGHTS!

here you become the owner by paying for the right to

reproduce someone else's materials...or you can do this

too! Let us say you offer the reprint rights to other

dealers for 42 or $3 for your 1-page report.

Then your profits are still greater, and the dealer has

the right to reprint your report, with his own name as the

"publisher".

It is always wisest to "copyright" everything you write.

Then, if anyone steals your idea, you can sue for

"copyright infringement" and force the thief to pay almost

any amount you decide, or take him to court.

3. BECOME THE DROPSHIPPER FOR A HOT SELLING ITEM!

Many suppliers need reliable dealers that will sell their

merchandise on a commission basis... Commissions can range

from 50% up.. You then do the advertising by distributing

circulars, which are generally provided free, and have as

many copies printed as you wish with your name inserted as

the as supplier. When cash-in-advance orders arrive, you

keep your commission and send the balance on to the prime

source. He will dropship direct to your customers. Many

such dealers also offer "wholesale discounts". this is

when you buy in quantity lots &fill order yourself for

bigger profits.

4. BECOME A DEALER FOR THE "PRIME SOURCE"!

Offer the prime source's products to other dealers for a

smaller commission. In other words, give some of of your

commission to others. In this way, your dealers and the

prime source do all the work and you are only the "middle

man".. And all you have to do is collect your commission

and forward the orders on. You pocket extra $$$ for every

little effort!

IMPORTANT! Read "What Sells BEST In Mail Order"! Lists

mail order's top 40 sales pullers...and tells why! Rush $2

to above Publisher or Fun Mates Press - FMS11, Box 6466,

San Francisco, CA 94101

HOW TO DESIGN WINNING ADS WITH YOUR OWN "CR"COPY....

#FMS-12

Copyright 1986, Fun Mates Press. Printed as news &

Information only.

Published by: FUN MATES PRESS, P.O. Box 6466, San

Francisco, CA 94101

"Camera ready" or "CR" copy means exactly that materials

all ready for the camera and to be printed "as is". NO

CHANGES! When you submit materials to a printer for

reproduction, he does not have permission to make any

changes. Therefore, if your "original;" has any errors,

smudges, fingermarks, etc.,, these too will be reproduced

on every copy printed.

Since your ad, circular, copy or whatever will be

reproduced exactly as the original, you must be extra

careful that every detail is as perfect as possible. Even

creases or folds may appear on the finished product. And

if hundreds of copies are printed at one time p or even

thousands- flaws, or throw the entire print job in the

trash!

Light blue margins will NOT photograph. Keep this in mind

when preparing copy for your printer's camera. Almost all

other colors will photograph as black. Therefore, it is

best to work with black on white paper only.. This will

give you a good idea of what the finished job will look

like.. If you use colored bits and pieces in your pasteup,

the overall appearance may not be the same as what you had

in mind for the final job.

All materials to be photographed must be a sharp and clear

as possible.. If you "lift" someone else's smudged

illustration or headline, remember that your final print

job will also have a smudged illustration or headline...

Also, be very, VERY careful about clipping and using

materials from someone else's ads or circulars. This could

get you involved in a lawsuit for "copyright

infringement", which is a federal offense.

If you want to add your own drawings, lettering, etc.,it

must be done in black (or dark red, which will photograph

as black). Never use blue carbon ribbon for best results.

Your stationery store should have these in stock. Also, be

sure to clean the typewriter keys before typing your copy

(message). Or have the type set by a commercial

typographer. Never make erasers when typing copy.. If you

make a mistake, start over.

If you desire to use a photograph in your ad, it must be

"screened" first. This is when the photo is broken down

into tiny dots. If this is not done, darker shades of grey

will become black and lighter shades may disappear

entirely. Your printer will be happy to give you free

advice.

Attach all materials you wish to include in your add with

rubber cement. This type of adhesive dries slowly and

allows time to slightly reposition any elements if

necessary. Never use transparent tape. It may photograph.

if you are preparing an ad for a publication, be sure the

size is exactly that required by the newspaper or

magazine. When pasting up a circular, allow 1/4" to 3/8"

white margin on all four sides.

Before presenting your original to the printer, be certain

that all excess rubber cement is removed.. This can be

done by rubbing it off with your finger. Any excess may

photograph as black smudges. Other unwanted marks can be

covered with "Liquid Perfect", from your stationery store.

Never fold the finished camera ready art. Folds and

creases may photograph as black lines. When mailing large

originals, use stiff cardboard as a backing to prevent

unnecessary damage. Mark on the outside of the envelope

"PHOTOGRAPH. Please do not bend or fold" and send via

FIRST CLASS MAIL - always!

Add HARD-SELL "CLOUT" to your ads and circulars. Send for

50 Ad-Art Samples that you may use as you wish. They're

FREE!...for a long self-addressed envelope and two 1st

class stamps. Order from Fun Mates Press Adv. Dept FMS/12,

Box 6466, San Francisco, CA 94101

15 "DO'S" & "DONT'S" FOR WRITING POWERFUL MAIL ORDER

ADS.... #FMS#13

Copyright 1987, Fun Mates Press. Printed as news &

information only.

Published by: FUN MATES PRESS, P.O. Box 6466, San

Francisco, CA 94101.

1. POWERFUL HEADLINE. This is the most important

eye-catcher that must grab the reader's attention. If your

headline lacks "PIZZAZZ" and appeal, the reader may skip

over your ad and your money is wasted.

2. THINK POSITIVELY. Your copy (message) must show

enthusiasm. If you feel your product (or service) is

"so-so" or average, forget it. Your lack of excitement

will show and may give the reader "second thoughts".

3. BE HONEST. Remember the Golden Rule. Don't exaggerate

or make false claims. never make promises you can't - or

don't - expect to keep. There are laws against "false" and

"misleading" advertising.

4. KEEP COPY SHORT. Sum up the entire message in as few

words as possible. Remember, if you use less words, the

type will be larger.

5. COME TO THE POINT. Say what must be said and no more.

Don't oversell! Excessive unimportant words will diminish

the power of the sales pitch.

6. USE SHORT SENTENCES to add excitement and hard-sell

"clout"!

7. KEEP COPY SIMPLE. Don't try to impress upon the reader

that you went to school. Use common, ordinary, everyday

"correct" English.

8. DON'T BE CUTE OR CLEVER. If you feel you have a flair

for writing comedy, don't reveal this latent talent when

writing ad copy.. Very few wish to place an order with a

comedian or clown.

9. STUDY THE COMPETITION and try to be different and

imaginative. Look for a new "approach" or "angle".

Copy-cats are seldom well-like.

10 DON'T ASK QUESTIONS that cannot be answered in a

positive manner. As example, don't ask "Do you want to

quit smoking?" (Some may not!) It is better to say

something like "You can quit smoking!"

11. AVOID EXPRESSIONS THAT MAY OFFEND. Don't try to be

"folksy" by using regional expressions. Also, stay away

from slang expressions.

12. STRESS THE BENEFITS of your service or product. The

public is more interested in how they will personally

benefit, i.e., will they earn more money, or become more

popular, or healthier, or younger looking, etc. Remember

to always sell the "sizzle" instead of the steak.

13. INVOLVE THE READER. Don't be afraid to use the word

"you". While your ad may be read by many thousands, you

are not addressing a huge stadium full of people. Instead,

you have a "captive" audience...your ad is being read by

one lone individual at a time.

14. DON'T CONFUSE THE READER. A small ad should promote a

SINGLE item only..and never two or more.

15. BE CONCISE. Tell your reader EXACTLY what he is

getting for his money, and EXACTLY how to order your

product or service.

HOW TO PICK THE BEST PUBLICATIONS IN WHICH TO

ADVERTISE.... #FMS-14

Copyright 1987, Fun Mates Press. Printed as New 7

Information only.

Published by: FUN MATES PRESS, P.O. Box 6466, San

Francisco, CA 94101.

Successful mail order dealers realize there are two

distinct groups of publications in which to place

advertising for maximum results.

The first group includes newspapers and magazines designed

to fill the needs, wants and interests of the "general

public". Theses "national" publications can be found on

newsstands across the nation.

The second group is what are called "trade" publications.

This consists of hundreds of mail order magazines,

newspapers, adsheets, etc. Contrary to what some

publishers of these "trades" claim, very few copies get

into the hands of the general public. Over 90% of the

readers are mail order dealers or those thinking of

entering mail order.

While an advertisement placed in one of the general public

newspapers or magazines may bring astronomical results,

the identical ad may fall flat when inserted in a mail

order trade publication... Likewise, and ad that has

sensational pulling power in one of the trades, may get

little or no response when it appears in national

publications... As with any other profession, most mail

order dealers are interested in what's happening in their

own field, plus they also read national newspapers &

magazines. However, the general public reads national

publication, but about 99% have very little interest in

the "internal" affairs of mail order. They couldn't care

less. This is very important to remember when placing ANY

ads.

Readers of mail order publications are interested in two

basics needs. First, how they can build-up their business

and increase their income. Second, ways of saving money.

Unless what you have to offer falls into either of these

two categories, ads placed in any mail order trade

publications are simply a waste of money.

With so many hundreds and hundreds of mail order trade

publications from which to choose, the logical question

is, where will an ad get the best results? There is no

100% accurate answer? It is a matter of "testing".

When selecting a publication to place an ad for the first

time, there are several things to be wary of.. First,

check the names of the advertisers appearing in the issue

you have available. If some of the better known names in

mail order are represented, you can be assured it is a

good newspaper or magazine to "try". Most of these

veterans know what they are doing and make certain their

ad dollars are wisely spent. So, follow the leaders!

Next, check the amount of "filler" copy that appears in

the publication. If more space is devoted to articles than

to advertisements, it is very possible that the

publication is "floundering"! Remember, it is the ads and

NOT the articles that support any publication. Lack of ads

means the publication does not have advertisers... Lack of

advertisers generally signifies that others have tried

advertising in that publication and were disappointed at

the results. They would then naturally stop advertising.

However, if you enjoy the articles and find them

informative, it is wiser to pay a small fee for a

subscription and forget about advertising.

A second warning signal of where NOT to advertise is by

the amount of space a publisher devotes to his or her own

offers. Let's face it. Any publisher would rather fill

their publication with ads of cash-paying customers. But

if dealers are reluctant to buy ad space, and generally

for good reason (poor response from previous ads), the

publisher has no alternative but to fill up the pages with

his or her offers. Other wise many of the pages would be

blank.

For a long list of some of the more popular mail order

publications, read "How To Receive Over 100 Mail Order

Magazines FREE"!...just $2 from above Publisher or Fun

Mates- FMS/14,, Box 6466, San Francisco, CA 94101.

HOW TO SET UP A SIMPLE LOW-COST RECORD KEEPING SYSTEM....

#FMS-15

Copyright 1986, Fun Mates Press. Printed as news &

information only.

Published by: FUN MATES PRESS, P.O. Box 6466, San

Francisco, CA 94101

Every mail order business requires an accurate

record-keeping system,

This is necessary to keep tabs on orders, record

shipments, prevent duplication, etc. It is also important

for tax purposes.

After many years in this business, we think this is the

ideal combination filing AND bookkeeping system. This

method is inexpensive, easy to use and extremely reliable

and efficient.

The secret lies in the use of standard 3" x 5" "Index"

cards, available in white and a variety of colors, ruled

or plain. These may be purchased from most variety,

stationery, department stores, etc. The cards are packaged

in units of 100 each and priced within everyone's budget.

Greater savings can be had by buying from wholesale paper

companies or retail/wholesale firms specializing in office

& stationery supplies. (look in your Yellow Pages under

"Paper Dealers" and "Paper Dealers-Wholesale & Mfrs."). In

some cases, when purchasing from wholesalers, only case

lots or 10 packs (1000 cards) is possible. However, the

extra savings can be substantial. The corrugated carton in

which the cards are packed makes an ideal space-saving

"file-drawer" when the cover is carefully removed. 1,000

cards occupy less space than a 1-lb loaf of bread!

Select a different color card for each year, such as white

for 1079, blue for 1980, etc. The use of various colors

facilitates easier up-dating and "cleaning out" inactive

accounts., than searching cards for dates actual orders

are recorded on the same card. The name of the customer

(last name first) is recorded in the upper left hand

corner.. Complete address follows. These are filed in

alphabetical order. To save space, notes on the cards may

be abbreviated. But it is extremely important that these

notes are understood by all who will be working with the

file... Complicated "codes" could cause frustrating

problems.

Upon opening every piece of incoming mail, the file must

first be checked to see if a card for that customer

already exists. If not, a card is promptly completed.

All pertinent information is recorded on the card, in

addition to the customer's name and address: date

received, origin of order (from which ad in which

publication, or circular), item ordered, type of payment

(check, money order, cash), or item customer inquired

about. For inquiries, specify exactly what was sent in

return, such as letter, circular, etc.

Most important is the recording of the date the order was

shipped and what method: 1st class mail, 3rd class mail,

parcel post, UPS, etc.. This is necessary in the event the

order is not received in due course.

You may also record the home address and phone number of

the customer, which may appear on the order form, check,

letterhead, etc. Also, the check number. Also the name of

the person who placed the order, if it is a company. And

signer of the check, if legible.

Coupons from ads or circulars may be stapled to the back

of the card.

All future business transactions must be recorded on each

customer's card. When one card is filled, staple a second

to the front of the first

For customers living within your state, where you must pay

sales taxes on orders, a small red check mark or "X" in

either upper corner helps separate these customers at

year's end, when taxes must be completed.

MORE IMPORTANT INFORMATION worth reading to keep records

in order: "How To 'Key" Advertising To Measure Results" is

the best way to keep from wasting advertising dollars.

Just $1.00 from above Publisher or Fun Mates Press-

FMS/15, Box 6466, San Francisco CA 94101.