Are paper calendars suffering the same fate as land phone lines and answering machines? While certain styles of calendars, like the once-popular desk calendar with the large date blocks for writing, have experienced steep declines in popularity, I will argue that many people who would otherwise describe themselves as tech-savvy welcome the addition of a stylish paper calendar into their daily routine of organizing their lives.
Admittedly, the electronic calendars on our phones, computers, and tablets have become as popular as the technology products themselves. We can sync them with multiple devices , and allow our co-workers, family members and friends access to our schedules with the stroke (or tap) of the keys. But with all the devoted paper lovers out there, there will always be an audience for a high quality branded planner that fits into a pocket or purse; a wall calendar with inspiring art or inspirational quotes; or an academic planner for the students.
Faster than anyone can log into their electronic calendar, we can pull out our planner, check the schedule, write down an appointment and close the book. A paper calendar doesn’t need to be charged; it can fall in a puddle without losing data; and it can hang on a wall giving us a quick visual reference on our day’s activities as we leave the room. Everyone has some style of paper calendar in their home, at their desk or in the car, and if companies ignore that fact they are missing out on a key marketing opportunity. The trick is to keep in mind one size does not fit all!
A subtle embossed logo on a high quality Moleskine pocket calendar is a perfect executive gift; a wall calendar featuring high quality photos of various corporate products and important dates printed on the appropriate day blocks is well received by tradesmen; and a student planner with exciting graphics displaying the corporate message will be used throughout the school year.
Does anyone still want a paper calendar? When the calendar is created with thoughtful originality, rather than just slapping a logo on the cheapest product available, the answer is YES!