Media Support

Every small business is unique, and your business cards should be, too. In fact, the most effective types of business cards are thoughtfully crafted to spark a specific action or outcome.

While a caterer’s business card might have a QR code that leads to an online menu and prompts a new customer to place a digital order, a hair stylist’s card might instead feature loyalty or scheduling elements to drive return visits.

Business cards are important for many reasons, from making a positive first impression to creating brand consistency to directing customers to your digital experience. With some reflection on your business objectives and how your card can support your goals, you can create a well-designed business card that is not only stylish but compels action and drives results. And we offer the best types of business cards that every small business owner should consider:

• Appointment cards.

As the name suggests, appointment cards confirm the details of an upcoming appointment. The front of the card can feature all your most relevant business information while the back provides handy space for you to write down the day and time for your client’s return visit and any other personalized info you have for them.

Best for: Small businesses wanting to lock in repeat customers and minimize no-shows. If your business books appointments in person, such as those in the health, beauty and wellness spaces, secure someone’s next visit and send them out the door with a tangible reminder confirming the details.

• Loyalty business cards.

Long-term relationships benefit any business and its bottom line. Loyalty cards foster repeat business by providing customers an incentive for their ongoing patronage. Maybe a free hair wash/ condition as a complimentary  after 10 visits to your salon. And while digital loyalty cards may be easily forgotten, paper loyalty cards offer customers a tangible invitation to return to your business. They’re also the perfect size for customers to stash in their wallets.

• Business cards with QR codes.

A QR code brings a digital twist to the traditional business card. Anyone holding your QR code business card can scan the graphic with their smartphone and be led directly to a pre-defined digital location — your website, social media pages, etc. — where they can further engage with your business. This simple tech lets you nudge a prospective customer toward deeper engagement and bring about a specific desired result.

Best for: Those who use digital channels to spur business. The QR code can lead wherever you choose, such as your online store, an appointment scheduler or social media profiles.

• Near-field communication (NFC) business cards.

NFC business cards offer contactless transfer technology similar to Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. With these ultra-modern and highly durable cards, customers use their smartphones to scan a chip that’s embedded in the plastic. They’re then directed to a custom Connect landing page that can include a professional portfolio, social media links, product videos and much more.

Best for: Businesses with a tech-savvy clientele who favor contactless exchanges. Similar to QR code business cards, NFC cards are valuable for pulling prospective customers or partners into your digital orbit and providing them with more detailed information in a seamless, modern way.

• Promotional business cards.

Business cards are a perfect place to add coupons or promo codes that customers can keep in their wallet for easy access. You can hand out promotional business cards at events, include them in e-commerce shipments or offer referral discounts when customers share your business with a friend.

Best for: Retail businesses, whether in-person or online, who want to increase repeat purchases and show their appreciation for loyal customers.