4 Simple Ways to Step Up Your Business Card Game

September 12, 2022

By Jason Eisenberg
Community Program Manager for Office Depot

Are business cards a thing of the past? One could argue, yes, with so many ways to exchange information digitally. But that's what makes business cards unique in today's world. Custom business cards can add a 'personal touch', act as marketing tools and allow you to show your creativity in a succinct way that helps share your message and create an impression to whomever you just handed your card to. It's not just a canned direct message or comment on your social media platform of choice.

With some help from some of Office Depot's entrepreneurial clients, we've compiled a list of ways you can step up your business card game to help build your brand.


1) Saying 'thank you' goes a long way 

@placedbygracedesigns

If your business is in the ecommerce space and you're delivering products to your customers, a simple thank-you-for-your-business note can do a few things for you.

  • It can set you apart because not every business thanks their customers
  • It can strengthen brand loyalty
  • It gives you the opportunity to showcase your creativity - maybe even highlight a product/service that they might be interested in later

What makes this tip invaluable is that you can combine any of the following tips below with this one. For example, a thank you card can also double as a coupon for an upcoming sale.

 


2) Display important business information 

@anthony2518

When you have an intriguing chat with someone and want to continue the conversation another time - whether at a networking event or during Happy Hour - you normally ask for their contact information. What if they grabbed a napkin and jotted down their phone number in barely legible handwriting? Would you take them or their business seriously? Having a great business card implies that you come prepared, which can help your reputation.

Another reason to include your business information is for ease of access. If you have all your pertinent information in one place, it makes it easier for the customer to find your retail space, your website, your social handles, or any other asset you want them to see. The business card is the perfect place to lead a potential customer into the EXACT experience you want them to.  


3) Showcase your products/Promote your event

@officiallygolssyinc

Some companies cut to the chase and showcase their products on their business card. If your products are visually pleasing and you're networking with the right people in the correct industry, handing them your card with photos of what they want is like selling candy to a baby who just grew their first sweet tooth.  

Are you planning a digital or physical event this year? While there are many ways to market your event online to targeted audiences, there's an easier, more personal way to inform your customers about an event they likely would be interested in since they already buy from your business and are privy to your brand.

When you want to promote your event to your customers, include a business card that personally invites them to your event in their order. Recall the first tip of including a thank you card. Now flip the card and include the invitation with the information they will need to attend. There are services to design business cards to meet your marketing needs.

 


4) Lift up your customers with humor or inspiration

@jeddie1889

When your business is in the process of building a loyal fanbase, you can always do more to ensure brand loyalty. Of course, make sure your products and services meet (dare I say surpass?) customer expectations, but what else can you do to keep your brand in their day-to-day?

A few months ago, business owner Nina Berenato shared how her retail jewelry business adopted a subscription model to supplement the lack of foot traffic in 2020. In her monthly subscription she included an inspirational phrase that coincided with the piece of jewelry her customers received. A short inspirational mantra or well-placed joke can really keep your brand top of mind in a positive way. 



While business cards tend to be pretty small, they can still make big marketing impacts for your brand. You just have to make sure the right information there, the design is unique to you and your business, and that whatever you're offering adds value to the customer's journey. 

For more on business card printing, visit here. And to find more inspiration on how other business owners are building their brand, check out our Discover Depot page.


All content provided herein is for educational purposes only. It is provided “as is” and Office Depot does not warrant the accuracy of the information provided, nor does it assume any responsibility for errors, omissions or contrary interpretation of the subject matter herein.