Business Cards Still Matter: What to Put on Them (Beyond Your Name)

In a world of DMs and QR codes, a business card is still one of the fastest ways to turn a real-life interaction into a future customer. It’s a portable reminder—and when it’s designed well, it becomes a tiny “sales page” that people keep.

Summary

Best use: in-person moments (jobsites, networking, deliveries, events).
Best upgrade: add a QR code to “Book / Quote / Reviews.”
Simple rule: one promise + one next step.

Why business cards are still important today

1) They work when “digital sharing” is awkward

Not everyone wants to type your info into their phone mid-conversation. A card is quick, polite, and frictionless.

2) They create a physical memory cue

People forget names. They don’t forget a great-looking card on the kitchen counter.

3) They pair well with modern networking

Some industries have shifted heavily toward digital contact-sharing (QR/NFC, LinkedIn, phone-to-phone), but that’s exactly why a modern business card (with a QR code) hits the sweet spot: physical + digital in one. oai_citation:0‡Financial Times

What to put on a business card (the “interesting” stuff)

Most business cards waste space. Instead, use the card to answer: “Why should I contact you—and what should I do next?”

1) A one-line promise (your “why you”)

Examples: - “Fast, clean, reliable home repairs—done right.” - “Premium lawn care for busy homeowners.” - “Real estate guidance with calm, clear strategy.”

2) A single next step (CTA)

Pick one: - “Text for a quote” - “Scan to book” - “Call today”

3) A QR code that goes somewhere useful

Best destinations: - Online booking page - “Request a quote” form - Google reviews link - Portfolio / before-after gallery - Menu (restaurants) - “New customer offer” landing page

QR tip: keep it easy to scan and test it on multiple phones. oai_citation:1‡VistaPrint

4) Proof that builds trust fast

Choose 1–2: - “Licensed & insured” (if true) - “100+ 5-star reviews” (if true) - “Family-owned” / “Local” - One short testimonial (real + permitted)

5) A micro-offer (optional, but powerful)

  • “$25 off first service”
  • “Free estimate”
  • “Free inspection”
  • “Mention this card”

6) A “human” detail

Cards get kept when they feel personal: - A friendly photo (great for service businesses and real estate) - Your direct line (“Text me”) - A name people can remember

A simple front/back layout that works

Many Neighborhood Postcards business card options are full color front & back, so use both sides intentionally. oai_citation:2‡Neighborhood Postcards

Side Put this on it Goal
Front Name, company, 1-line promise, phone Instant clarity
Back QR code + CTA, proof, offer Drive action

Content templates (copy/paste ideas)

Home services (roofing, plumbing, pest, cleaning)

Front: “Fast appointments • Clear pricing • Clean work”
Back: QR: “Scan to request a quote” + “Free estimate” + “Licensed & insured”

Restaurant / café

Front: “Best [signature item] in town”
Back: QR: menu + “Order online” + “10% off first online order (code CARD10)”

Real estate agent

Front: “Calm strategy. Strong negotiation.”
Back: QR: “Free home value estimate” + testimonials/review count

Paper + finish choices (why it affects perception)

Your card is part of your brand. For example, Neighborhood Postcards’ standard business cards list an 18pt paper stock, uncoated, standard 3.5 × 2 inches, and 4-color print front & back. oai_citation:3‡Neighborhood Postcards
If you’re outdoors a lot (jobsites, landscaping, pool services), a waterproof option can make sense. oai_citation:4‡Neighborhood Postcards

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Too many services (small text nobody reads)
  • Multiple CTAs (“Call / text / email / visit / follow / scan” → pick one)
  • A QR code with no instruction (add “Scan to book”)
  • No reason to keep it (add proof or a small offer)
  • Generic tagline (“Quality service!”) instead of a real promise

Final recommendation

Make your card do one job: turn an in-person moment into a next step.

  • Add a one-line promise
  • Add a QR code to booking/quote/reviews
  • Use the back for proof + a simple offer