Have you ever thought about what story your business cards are telling? If you are like most people, they say to your customers, prospects, and peers little more than how to get in contact with you. But used right, they can do much more. Here are some ideas for doing more with this under-utilized tool. 

1. Use a non-traditional stock.

Instead of using the same high-volume plain white stock that your competitors are using, why not choose something that better represents what you do? If you sell party supplies, for example, consider a business card coated with colored foil. If you own or manage a “hard-bodies” gym, find paper made from rocks! (Yes, there is such a thing.)

2. Use both sides.

Most business cards are not printed on the back, creating a massive opportunity for you. Think “mini brochure.” Add text that tells a story about what your specialty is and what you’ve accomplished. Add QR Codes or augmented reality to take prospects to videos or landing pages where they can learn more.

3. Add embellishments and dimensions.

Black-and-white or colored text on white stock. Is that how you want people to remember you? Add iridescence, embossing, foil, or specialty coatings in ways that, when people look at your business card, remember your story. If you sell water systems, for example, add a water drop with a satin coating to pop off the uncoated stock. You want customers and prospects to easily recall your earlier conversation or marketing interaction and why they wanted to stay in contact with you in the first place.

Source: Inspired by Pat McGrew’s “Storytelling Business Cards” on Print Sample TV.