Many make the assumption that because we live in a digitally advanced world, there is really no need for a business card. Even if you work from home, offer services online, or run an e-commerce site, you need to have business cards on hand. Business cards are always going to be effective offline marketing tools. They show that you’re professional, legit, and that you’re invested in your brand – which of course is good for business. Below, are six more reasons you need to have business cards with you at all times.
- A Window of Opportunity
There is always an opportunity to network with others and the potential do business. Whether you’re at a meeting, conference, trade show, or at the grocery store, you need to have something tangible that sums up who you are, what you have to offer, and most importantly, how to get in touch with you. Trying to stand and explain this to someone as they write it down is annoying and a surefire way to lose business.
- It’s Something Tangible
Have you ever tried to remember the name of a website or a contact number? It can be very difficult to do. Even if you have the simplest URL, by the time a person has a need for your products or services, chances are they’ve forgotten your contact information. A business card is a small tangible item you can hand out that’s a constant reminder. Should they want to refer to your business at a later date, all they have to do is access the business card.
- It’s Affordable
There aren’t many free or affordable marketing materials out there nowadays. Business cards are actually very affordable and very useful to building your brand and networking. You can get affordable offers, such as 250 free business cards from Printastic. The shipping costs are minimal and you have several cards at your disposal to pass along.
- Helps You Stand Out
As a freelancer, you are likely a “one man show”. You have limited financial resources, and therefore you have to find creative ways to stand out above the competition. Investing in something as affordable as business cards is a great way to do this. A nice, polished design can go a long way to sparking conversations and generating leads.
- They’re Small
Unlike other marketing materials such as flyers and posters, business cards are small and conveniently fit in your pocket or wallet. This means that you can carry them around with you at all times. When you’re out and about, you can hand off a card easily and not think twice. Not to mention the person you hand it over to will appreciate its size as they don’t have to figure out how to transport your flyer or poster around with them.
- They’re Effective
Business cards are like miniature flyers or websites that pack a big punch. The right design elements help capture their attention, while the convenient size makes it easy for them to store for later. Business cards are the marketing material that you keeps on branding long after you’ve left the conversation. Business cards can be passed on to others and even stored away until a person has a need.
While you might conduct most of your business online or in the comforts of your own home, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be prepared. You never know when a window of opportunity might present itself, and it’s important for you to be prepared. Something as small as a business card can do wonders for your business as it helps spread the word about your brand. It’s an easy way to market on a shoestring budget while beating out the competition.