Rack cards are an effective and inexpensive way to market your business to visitors and tourists.  With the help of a well-designed rack card, you can attract new customers that you would otherwise miss.

To get the best results from the rack card you create, there are specific factors you want to take into consideration.  To create an effective rack card, keep these factors in mind as you are working on its design:

Evaluate

The best way to get an idea of the type of rack cards that work, as well as the types that don't, is to take a look at an actual shelf of rack cards for yourself.  When you walk up to a shelf of rack cards, you will initially be attracted to a handful of cards.  Grab these cards, and then evaluate what made these cards stand out to you.  While you obviously won't want to directly copy any existing rack cards, this is a good first step to point your mind in the right direction

.
Make Them an Offer They Can't Refuse

Your rack card should begin with an offer that visitors and tourists can't refuse.  While they may overlook your rack card if the name of your business is all they see at the top of it, if they see a great offer, they will grab your rack card so they can find out more.  Whether it's an incentive or something free, an irresistible offer is the best way to get your rack cards in the hands of potential customers.

Show That You're Not Far Away

Since the majority of your rack cards will be picked up by people who aren't familiar with the area, emphasize to them how close your business is to where they currently are.  While someone may be hesitant to visit your business if they're not sure how far away it is, when they know you're "just three blocks away," they won't have to worry about spending a lot of their valuable trip time trying to find you.

Make It Easy to Find You

In addition to showing that you're nearby, make sure it's easy to find you.  This means that your rack card should include your address, as well as a map or general directions.  You should also include your phone number, which will allow people to call your business in the event that they have any questions about how to get to it.

Use a Design That "Pops"

In addition to beginning your rack card with an offer people can't refuse, you can also increase its effectiveness by using an eye-catching design.  While you don't want your design to be cluttered or to make it difficult to read what's written on your rack card, adding some "pizazz" to your design to will help it stand out and catch people's attention.

Be Compelling

Not only should the headline of your rack card be strong, but the rest of what you write on it should also be compelling.  Remember that you're talking directly to the person reading, so tell them in a clear and concise manner why they should come visit your business.