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Aggressive business card marketing isn't about handing your business cards out to everyone you see. The card itself must have a new use, an innovative design, or something other than the usual contact information printed on it. To make your little card stand out, try these other ideas.

Print something other than a business card on biz card-sized cardstock.

You have seen loyalty cards for "buy 10 get one free" offers; why not print one of your own? Print a frequent buyer card or other promotional offer on a card. The whole card can be a coupon for a free consultation, a discount, or a free gift with purchase. Remember include an expiration date on them! Then hand them out to all your customers.

Print a short survey on a card.

Offer an incentive for people to return the card to you with the survey answered--they can get a free gift or a discount just for answering a few simple questions. Then give them a new card with your contact information on it.

Other things you might print on this size cardstock include:

• Hangtags
• Nametags
• Tickets to an event; or
• Tiny greeting cards you might attach to a gift basket or other gift.

It's always nice to handwrite a personal note when using them as greeting cards. A quick "thank you" or "best wishes" goes a long way. Or, announce a special event and enclose the cards with all your outgoing correspondence.

Make your business card a referral card for your organization or club.

That will make it easy to invite a prospect to your next meeting or to introduce the organization to them. On the front, print a form to fill in the date, time and location. On the back, include a brief overview of the club. Let members hand them out to potential recruits.

Turn them into appointment cards.

On one side, you can print your name, address, phone, fax and email plus your business name and logo. On the other side, leave room to fill in the date and time of your customer's next appointment. They will keep it in their wallet or planner and always have your information at their fingertips. You could also print a map of your location on the back or directions on how to reach your store or office.

Whatever you choose to do, remember that a little card can have a big impact on your marketing if you employ some creativity. Once you are finished with your designs, upload them to a professional business card printer who will print the cards for you.

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