I agree and think it's a great idea to maximize the space on a business card. It may be the only takeaway a networking or random contact has of you so the more direct and informative a card can be, the better a marketing tool it is.

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I use a call to action on my business cards and my postcards. I don't see why it's a bad idea at all. I know some people will say not to offer any discounts but I think it entices people to inquire.

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A call to action is ALWAYS a good marketing strategy. Whether on a business card, website, flyers, etc.

Best of Luck,

Julie

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Julie | Virtual Resource Services, Inc (VRSI)
http://www.vrsioffice.com

Originally Posted by Paulette

I'm having my friend who is a designer redesign my business card and logo. I'm attaching the back of my business card. What do you guys think if I add a call to action on the bottom of the business card since there is some space there? I was thinking of adding: "5% off your first invoice with this card" Do you think that's a good idea?

Yes, I think this is a great idea! I'm trying to do this in Vistaprint, however, I'm having difficulty fooling the template I'm using into letting me do anything more on the back =( ugh, frustration!

Ellen

I definitely think a call to action is great on a business card but how about offering a free consultation? And then if they are still hesitant once on the phone you can offer discount. that way you aren't offering to ones that don't need a discount and you are maybe weeding out the "cheapos" that you don't want anyway. I offer a so many hours get 1 free discount. i have just tried this technique and seems to have gotten their attention.

Originally Posted by Shannon

I definitely think a call to action is great on a business card but how about offering a free consultation? And then if they are still hesitant once on the phone you can offer discount. that way you aren't offering to ones that don't need a discount and you are maybe weeding out the "cheapos" that you don't want anyway. I offer a so many hours get 1 free discount. i have just tried this technique and seems to have gotten their attention.

This is a great idea too. How are your consultation fees determined? I know most are a minimum 30 minutes. Do you consider your hourly and do the math (for the 30 min) or is it a completely different fee? Sorry if this sound "simply". I'm a newbie still in the planning stage :-)

Originally Posted by VASbyBG

This is a great idea too. How are your consultation fees determined? I know most are a minimum 30 minutes. Do you consider your hourly and do the math (for the 30 min) or is it a completely different fee? Sorry if this sound "simply". I'm a newbie still in the planning stage :-)

Most VAs do not charge for consultations. I think that's because most potential clients would never take you up on a consultation if they had to pay for it. What I think she means is that she offers the potential client a special package rate, lets say 10% off 20 hours per month, and that's what gets their attention.

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Paulette R.
Romero Communications

I think that's a great idea, Paulette! I have no problem giving a discount for a new client, either. I think it's a great way to get them in and show them your work and that you're worth it!

@VASbyBG Offering a free consultation is just that, free! This is your time to shine! I do charge on an hourly basis for most customers however a initial consultation is a fact finding mission for both the potential client and myself. Everyone should feel confident the services are a good match. and yes, Paulette, I offer a discount or free hour for so many if they are still hesitant. You could also offer a trial period. If they don't like, you both part ways professionally.

Sounds like a good idea. For folks that have never contracted a VA before, the discount may give them the nudge to go ahead and try!

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Clydene Rogers
Premier VA--Placerville, CA