I thought I would update you on some off-line promotion we did on Bank Holiday Monday. The goal of the day was to build our prospect list and gather email addresses. The carrot to get them to give us their details was a free chance to win £1000. www.WinAGrand.biz We set up a market stall in Essex (cost about £60) The plan was to use counter foil type raffle tickets. Unfortunately people were reluctant to stop. Lucky we had our business cards with us. Instead we handed out the cards. The result of this was some people would stop and ask about our offer, then will got them to complete the ticket. It's still a little early to get accurate results but so far we made 1 sale and a long list of prospects. I will be trying this again. I hope this gives you some food for thought!
One of the best methods similar to this was an Irish based website that was selling car parts. They produced "business card like" fridge magnets... Posted them through letterboxes and gave them out at Car Events here.. Genius!
After searching and not finding anything I was happy with, I've just finished doing some print design and layout work and building a site that promotes realistic looking cash drop cards. The best way to capture someone's attention is to either hand them "cash" and say, "Here's my card, give me a call!" and watch the expression on their face. Or, leave a few of these about town and watch people scramble to pick them up. Although, they'll be slightly disappointed that it wasn't actually cash they've found, they'll be alternatively delighted at the novelty of the marketing strategy and keep it anyway. These cards will NOT be thrown away. I am also currently working on developing an affiliate program for people who want to promote these and earn commissions.
If you are putting in more hours and making less than a minimum-paid worker, it's a bad idea. ... A VERY bad idea. Also, how much is a box of cards? Now, can you get enough sales to not only get your money back, but make a profit? After the time you put in handing them out, combined with the production costs, probably not. You just wasted $. Save the cards and or flyers for people who you know might be interested in what you have. In fact, give them two cards, in case they know someone who also may be interested. But ask first! Otherwise it will more than likely be another wasted card.
IMHO, i think it is best to hand them out to everyone you come in contact with. Family,Friends,Trade shows,events....YES, its a great idea to get business cards. -C
Great ideas on here. I really like Froggy9682's card that says "this card is worth $250,000" - excellent!!