Using Business Cards for Small Business Marketing

By on September 26, 2011 in Marketing & sales

Small business owners face different marketing challenges than their larger counterparts. They often have lower advertising budgets and rely more heavily on word-of-mouth advertising. As a result, it’s especially important for small business owners and entrepreneurs to find advertising methods that are both affordable and effective. With low costs and easy distribution, business cards are undoubtedly one of the best choices.

A business card for a small business can convey all kinds of important information in a small space. It doesn’t take much effort to have a batch of cards printed, and business owners can begin passing them out to potential leads and customers right away. Before a business chooses this marketing option, however, it’s important to figure out what information should be included and how the cards will stand out from those distributed by other companies. Additionally, a small business owner should have a clear marketing plan that includes a distribution strategy and conversion goals.

Making Cards Stand Out

There are plenty of ways to design a professional, appealing business card. The most important thing to consider is whether or not the design stands out from those of other companies. Some businesses have enjoyed great success by creating business cards in unique shapes or with design schemes that relate to their services. For example, a landscaping company might create a tree-shaped business card, while a graphic design firm might craft a striking, artistic theme. Customers who receive cards from multiple businesses will pay more attention to the designs that are unique in some way.Even a business card that looks plain, however, can be effective if it incorporates something novel like a coupon, discount offer or rewards program. These types of cards are a great way for small businesses to encourage potential clients and returning customers to make purchases.

Important Information to Include

While businesses should spend time correlating their card designs to their brands, they also need to remember to include important information. A business card should include the company’s name and a short tagline or description of its services. Additionally, the card needs to include contact information such as a phone number, email address, store or office location and website. Personalized cards for individual employees might also include the representative’s name, direct phone line and job title. With more businesses using social media to interact with their customers, some companies also include their Facebook addresses or Twitter handles.

Leads, Conversions and Results

For business cards to be effective, small business owners need to take steps to pass the cards out among potential leads. Sales staff and employees should keep cards with them at networking events and while they are out looking for interested customers. A company with reasonable goals and a clear distribution strategy is more likely to enjoy successful marketing results. When small business owners go to design their cards, they should focus on specific ways in which they would like to improve their numbers. With a clear plan in mind and a well-designed business card, a company can gain more publicity and qualified leads.