In pre-covid times business cards were most definitely still a thing. But in a post-covid world, people are looking for digital alternatives.
In a traditional sense, do dog walkers need business cards in 2022? Absolutely not. There are several reliable and more modern ways to give someone your contact information.
But are business cards still useful? It depends on how you use them.
What do you put on a dog walking business card?
A standard business would have;
- Your business name
- Logo
- Personal name
- Phone number
- Website/email details
More recently QR codes are added to take the person directly to your website or booking page. Free QR codes can be made here at QRcode monkey.
Are business cards a thing of the past?
In the traditional sense of how we used to use them, I think so yes. They were on a decline due to affordable, workable digital options being available and covid has been the final nail in the business card coffin.
With almost 90% of business cards getting thrown away, we also needed a more sustainable option too.
Has covid killed the business card?
Probably, but perhaps the way we use those small cards needs a rethink for 2022.
Alternative uses for business cards
- Loyalty cards – One free walk for every 20 is the same as an ongoing 5% discount
- Referral cards – One free walk for every new client introduced to you
- Magnetic cards – order these and they’ll go straight on the fridge door instead of the recycling bin
- Reminders – the back could have a space for flea and worming treatment reminder dates.
- Vouchers – one free walk with this card, if you don’t need it, pass it on!
Dog walker business card templates
There are countless places to have business cards printed but my favourite website to design absolutely anything is canva.com
This is a free website (with a paid version but the free one is usually good enough) where you can design anything from business cards to Instagram posts to Facebook adverts. Canva does have an option to order cards (and other promotional items) directly through their app but you may prefer to download your high-resolution design and shop around for the best printing deal.
If you’re looking for royalty-free images and vector graphics to use commercially, either on your cards or elsewhere in your business (signwriting and websites etc.) then take a look at pixabay.com
What are the pros and cons of using business cards?
Advantages:
- Professionalism: Business cards offer a professional image and can help to establish credibility in the business world.
- Convenience: Business cards are small and easy to carry, making them a convenient way to share contact information.
- Branding: Business cards can be customized to reflect a company’s branding and messaging, helping to create a memorable impression.
- Networking: Business cards are an effective tool for networking and can be exchanged with potential clients, partners, and colleagues.
- Tangibility: Business cards are physical objects that can be held and shared, making them a tangible reminder of a business or individual.
However, there are also some disadvantages to using business cards in 2023, including:
Disadvantages:
- Environmental impact: In today’s environmentally conscious world, the use of paper-based business cards can be seen as wasteful.
- Digital alternatives: In an age where most people have smartphones and digital devices, digital alternatives such as exchanging contact information via email or social media can be seen as more efficient and eco-friendly.
- Outdated information: Business cards can quickly become outdated if contact information changes, which can be a hassle for recipients who may try to use the information later.
- Limited information: Business cards typically only contain basic contact information, which may not provide enough detail for recipients who are trying to learn more about a business or individual.
- Cost: Customized business cards can be expensive, especially for small businesses or individuals who may not have a large marketing budget.
Business card alternatives.
Digital cards allow for updates without needing reprints. Change your number, change your email or change your business entirely!
They work by using NFC (near field communication) technology. Your business card details are held on a sticker for your phone, or a wristband, keyring or card. When you tap it on someone’s phone your details are stored for them, even if they don’t have the app installed. One of the huge benefits of this technology is that you can include much more in your details than you’d be able to fit on a paper business card.
Popular digital card providers include Popl and Linq. The products themselves span a range of budgets with a simple card or stick often being cheaper than you’d pay for a few hundred paper business cards.
Conclusion
Although business cards were easy to hand out on dog walks and small enough for potential clients to keep in their wallets/purses, these days you might people more reluctant to take things from a stranger.
It’s definitely worth researching new methods of giving people your contact details. Creating QR codes to share over your social media channels is a great way to start exploring this for free.