Safely Ahead of the Game

→ Go to conferences and meet as many people as you can. First, you'll meet some of the best consultants at industry events, and second, you'll meet seasoned catalog veterans who can share their expertise. Learn as much as you can.

→ Find a mentor. Longo says he often forms advising relationships with companies new to the direct marketing game. He recommends looking for mentors outside your product vertical just to eliminate any potential conflicts with your business.