Color - Make sure that the color you choose is reflective of your business. It should only include items that are already included on your website, brochures, business cards, etc. This will not only improve the likelihood that you get eyeballs to your collateral, but will also increase the likelihood that you get customers out of your efforts.
Layout - Make sure that the layout is pleasing to the eye. Having an appealing layout will guide the reader through your train of thought, and will also help in getting attention. So be sure to have your three big ideas and position them like a funnel. Start out with a very broad idea, and then narrow the thought process to something that is actionable. By doing this, you not only motivate the reader to take action, but also have a way of including them in your marketing materials.
Copy - Try to think of your three main topics and position all of the copy around it. Think about what your three main ideas are, and develop copy that speaks to each point. This could easily be done by starting with your main concept and then going from there.
Bullets - Make sure that you use bullets wherever possible. By including bullets, you not only point out your big thoughts, but also allow the reader to fully understand what it is your communicating to them. Also, be sure that the bullets are evenly placed on your flyer. Many times designers will position the bullets around the copy that they already have. This is a huge mistake as it confuses the eye and does not clearly convey your three main selling points.
Shape - Experiment with die cut shapes. This will help in not only getting attention, but will also help in conveying what your business is about. Just be sure that the shape is something that embodies your industry. Many times dentists will include flyers in the form of toothbrushes, teeth, or dental floss.
When you are done, be sure that you include as much information as possible. This will help in motivating your reader to take action.
She has worked with top agencies in brochure design projects for Fortune 500 clients. Brochures are a great marketing tool and there will be more articles to come about how to use them effectively for your business.