Refresh: How to use the back of business cards: 11 creative business card backside ideas

Estimated reading time: 14 minutes

Need inspiration? Explore these business card backside ideas to make the most of your card’s reverse side!
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Your business card packs a lot of essential information about your business, but if you’re only using the front, you’re missing out on valuable space. Your logo and business name should take center stage on the front, but the business card back gives you room to be more creative — whether that’s adding a QR code, an appointment reminder or something unexpected.

In this guide, we’ll cover why it’s important to make the most of the business card back, explore 11 business card backside ideas that add value and help you stand out and share best practices for designing a functional and visually appealing backside. Plus, you’ll see how real small business owners are putting these ideas into action.

Should you use the business card back?

Leaving the back of your business card blank is a missed opportunity. This extra space gives you more room to communicate key details, reinforce your brand and make a stronger impression. Here’s why you should use it:

  • Share more without overcrowding the front. A business card only has so much space — using the back lets you add extra details without making the front feel cluttered.
  • Stand out from the competition. Most people focus only on the front, so a well-designed business card back immediately sets yours apart.
  • Make your card more useful. Whether it’s an appointment reminder, a QR code or a loyalty reward, adding value increases the chances that customers will hold onto it.
  • Strengthen your branding. The business card backside is a great place to reinforce your brand’s personality, whether through a tagline, a signature design or a thoughtful message.

In short, using the business card back is more than just a business card trend. By utilizing this space, you turn your business card into a print marketing asset that works harder for you.

11 creative business card backside ideas

Every business card you hand out is an opportunity to connect with your audience, make a lasting impression and stay on their radar. So why not make the most of it? Instead of leaving blank space unused, turn the back of your business card into something practical, memorable or even a little unexpected with our business card back ideas. 

Whether it’s a helpful tip, a QR code or a fun extra, these eleven business card backside ideas will help you create a card that stands out — and one that people actually want to keep.

1. Add a QR code

When it comes to business cards, you have a limited amount of space. So, if you want to share something that takes up more than the standard business card dimensions, 3.5″x2″, direct customers to your website — like Kristi Frank, owner of Clutch Creations, does on her card. 

A business card QR code is a simple but powerful way to do this. 

Whether you link to your restaurant menu, service specials, portfolio or online shop, a quick scan gives customers instant access to more information without cluttering your design. 

You can also use it to drive specific actions — like booking an appointment, signing up for a newsletter, or even following your social media pages.

Business card backside ideas: adding a QR code.

2. Provide some practical info

The business card back is a great place to share useful details that customers can reference later. Instead of just contact information, you can add practical tips, instructions or schedules to the back of your business card that make it more valuable and worth keeping. This small addition can enhance the customer experience and even encourage repeat business.

Here are a few ways different industries can make the most of the business card back space:

  • Salons & barbershops: Haircare tips for maintaining a fresh cut or color.
  • Restaurants & cafés: Reheating instructions for takeout, allergy-friendly menu details or a QR code linking to online reservations.
  • Event venues & theaters: A mini event schedule with upcoming performances, happy hours or special promotions.
  • Fitness trainers & gyms: Quick workout routines, nutrition tips or a progress tracker for personal training clients.
  • Retail & handmade goods: Product care instructions for clothing, jewelry or candles to help customers keep their purchase in top shape.

By including helpful, industry-specific information, you make your business card more than just a point of contact — you turn it into a resource customers will actually use.

3. Offer a reward

The back of business cards is a perfect place to reward customers for their loyalty, or surprise them with a special offer. A small incentive can make your card more valuable and increase the chances that customers will keep it rather than toss it aside. Whether you use a stamp-able loyalty business card design for repeat visits or include a welcome offer with a freebie or discount, these business card backside ideas can help drive engagement. 

Consider adding a limited-time offer to create urgency or personalizing rewards based on customer preferences. A simple “Bring this card for 10% off your next purchase” can turn a business card into a reason for customers to come back.

4. Get social

Tell customers where they can find you online by using the back of your business card to showcase your social media presence. Include icons for the platforms you’re active on, along with your handle or username, to make it easy for customers to connect with you.

Take a cue from CXDSN’s shop and add a short call-to-action, encouraging customers to follow you, tag your business or share their experiences.

Business card backside ideas: social media.

For even more engagement, consider these business card backside ideas:

  • Use a branded hashtag customers can include in their posts to create user-generated content and build social proof.
  • Encourage participation by offering a small discount or giveaway entry for customers who tag you in a photo.
  • Add a QR code linking directly to your social media profile or a landing page with all your accounts.

When designing the business card back, adhere to the basic business card design rules — keep it clean and easy to scan. 

Social media icons are a great way to represent platforms without taking up too much space, and keeping the layout simple ensures your handles remain legible.

5. Spotlight a customer testimonial

Positive customer reviews make great additions to marketing materials — even your business card. Use this blank business card back space to showcase some of the kind words your customers have left, and don’t be afraid to update the testimonial every time you order a new batch of business cards.

6. Add something special

Surprise and delight your customers by adding something unexpected to the back of your business card. A fun, useful or intriguing detail can make your card more engaging — and more likely to be kept. Even people who usually skip over business cards might hold onto yours if it offers something extra.

Here are a few business card backside ideas to make your card stand out:

  • Restaurants & bars: Share a recipe for your signature cocktail or best-selling dessert so customers can try making it at home.
  • Fortune tellers & tarot readers: Feature a monthly horoscope, lucky numbers or a quick daily affirmation.
  • Creative businesses: Include a short, inspiring quote related to your industry or a quirky joke to show off your brand personality.

Printing it on the back of your business card turns a simple business card into something people actually want to keep and refer back to. Whether it’s a recipe, a fun fact or a personalized message, this small touch adds extra value and makes your business more memorable.

7. Show off your slogan

Do you have a catchy tagline or fun slogan for your small business? Give it a place to stand out on the back of your business card, like Clutch Creations does with their cards. Owner Kristi Frank uses this line of copy to create a pattern-like effect on the business card back that’s super eye-catching.

Adding a slogan, business card backside ideas.

8. Remind customers of their next appointment

Want to remind customers when their next hair appointment is, or when they should get their next oil change? Including a spot on the business card back to jot down the date and time of their next service makes your card more practical and keeps your business top of mind.

Here are some business card backside ideas to make appointment reminders even more effective:

  • Use a simple, structured business card layout: Dedicate a clearly labeled section with lines or a small table for writing in appointment details.
  • Make it writable: Choose an uncoated business card paper finish so customers (and your staff) can easily fill in the details without smudging.
  • Add a call-to-action: A quick note like “Keep this card handy and call us if you need to reschedule!” encourages engagement.
  • Combine with other useful info: Consider adding your cancellation policy, a QR code for online rescheduling or a loyalty reward for repeat visits.

9. Thank your customers

Adding a ‘thank you’ message to the back of your business card is an easy way to show appreciation to your customers. Whether you tuck one into their mailed order, like By Holly, or staple one to their receipt, it’s a simple gesture that can go a long way — and make their unboxing experience a little more special.

Adding a 'thank you' message: business card backside ideas

10. Include a map of your location

Add more than just your address to your business card back — include a map showing where your brick-and-mortar location is. This can be especially helpful if your store, studio, or office is tricky to find, such as in a shared workspace or a larger shopping complex. A simple visual cue makes it easier for customers to locate you without relying on GPS.

Here are some business card backside ideas to make your map as useful as possible:

  • Highlight key landmarks: If your business is near a well-known spot, like a popular café or a transit stop, mark it on the map for easy reference.
  • Show parking options: If parking is limited, note the best places for customers to leave their vehicles.
  • Keep it minimal and clear: Avoid overly detailed maps — simple lines and labels work best on small spaces.

If you want your business card back to double as a powerful local marketing tool, add a QR code linking to your business profile in Google. If you already have positive reviews there, this will help your business spread the word. If not, customers will know where to leave a review. 

Using the business card back for a location map not only helps customers find you but also reinforces your local presence. It’s a practical, space-saving addition that can drive more foot traffic and improve customer experience.

11. Tell customers your story

Want to give customers some background info on your small business story… without taking up a lot of space? Include a meaningful anecdote or your brand’s mission statement — like Yukon Soap Company does on their square business cards. This will give customers a better idea of who you are, especially if they’re new to your business.

Business card backside ideas, including a meaningful message.

Thanks to these small business owners for sharing photos of how they use branded stickers! Check them out on Instagram: 

@_cxdsn

@yukonsoapscompany

@hollyfrocks

@thats.clutch

@theklayshop
@crownandglorytattoo

How to design your business card back: Best practices and tips

Designing the business card back isn’t all that different from designing the front — you want it to be clear, visually appealing and on-brand. But since the back serves a different purpose, there are a few specific best practices to keep in mind so that you’re making the most of the extra space. Here’s how to get it right:

  • Focus on one or two key elements. The back of your card isn’t a billboard — don’t try to cram in everything. Pick the most valuable info to put on the business card, whether it’s a QR code, a loyalty reward or an appointment reminder.
  • Use high-contrast colors for readability. If customers have to squint to read your card, they won’t bother. Stick with dark text on a light background (or vice versa) and avoid low-contrast color pairings.
  • Make sure the business card back fonts aren’t too small. Anything under 8pt can be tough to read, especially if you’re using fancy script or thin fonts. Test your business card design at actual size before printing.
  • Leave space for handwriting. If you’re adding an appointment slot or loyalty stamps, go for an uncoated paper finish so ink doesn’t smudge. 
  • Use icons to save space. Instead of writing out “Follow us on Instagram: @YourHandle,” just add a small social media icon on the business card, right next to your username. It’s cleaner, faster to read and universally understood.
  • Make sure QR codes actually work. Keep them at least 0.8 inches (2 cm) wide and leave enough white space around them. And always — always — test before printing. A non-working business card QR code is worse than none at all.
  • Consider a vertical business card layout if it makes sense. Most business cards are horizontal, but a vertical back can make yours stand out. Just ensure it aligns well with the front so it feels intentional, not mismatched.

Now that you have your business card backside idea…

Your business card may be small, but it’s a powerhouse of print marketing. Every inch of it — including the business card back — is an opportunity to engage, inform and impress. Ignoring this space is like leaving half your marketing potential untapped.

By following smart business card back design practices — keeping your layout structured, easy to read, and aligned with your brand — you can even mix and match multiple business card backside ideas to maximize impact. A QR code and a loyalty reward? Why not. A map and a social media handle? Absolutely. The key is balance: make it useful, make it memorable and make it work for you.

Of course, none of this matters if your print quality isn’t up to par. While DIY printing is an option, ensuring crisp text, vibrant colors and a professional finish is best left to the experts. That’s where VistaPrint comes in.

FAQ about business card backside ideas

What are some creative business card backside ideas?

The business card back is prime space for adding value beyond just your name and number. Some great ideas include:

  • A QR code linking to your website, portfolio or booking page
  • A loyalty reward or discount to encourage repeat business
  • Appointment reminders for service-based businesses
  • A customer testimonial to add instant credibility
  • A mini map if your location is tricky to find

How can the back of a business card enhance branding?

Your business card back reinforces your brand identity and makes your card more memorable. Use this space to showcase your logo, tagline or brand colors, or include a short mission statement to highlight what makes your business unique. A well-designed business card backside ensures consistency across your marketing materials and keeps your brand top of mind.

Is it necessary to include a QR code on the business card back?

No, but it’s a smart move if you want to direct people to more information without cluttering your card. A QR code can link to your website, social media or an exclusive offer, making it easy for customers to engage with your business instantly. If you don’t need one, use the space for something else, like a testimonial or appointment reminder.

Should I use images on the back of my business card?

Yes, but keep them simple and purposeful. A well-placed image — like your logo, a product photo or a background pattern — can enhance your design without making it feel cluttered. Avoid overly detailed images that make text hard to read, and make sure any graphics align with your branding.

Can I include additional contact information on the back?

Absolutely! The business card back is a great place for secondary contact details, such as a customer service number, WhatsApp link or alternate email. You can also add social media handles or a QR code leading to a full contact page. Just keep it clean — too much info can overwhelm the design.