Your business card needs to tell the story of your business – something that isn’t always easy, when you’re talking about a piece of card only a few inches tall!
The choice of font, colours, wording and texture of the card you use, can go a long way towards helping make it easier for you to get your business brand across, if you understand the basics of how to make the most out of that little piece of card.
But this then leads to one of the most commonly asked questions about business cards – do you even need one, in this digital, online world?
Do you really need a business card?
Even in a digital, online world, people still communicate face-to-face. Whether you’re at a networking event or a social function, a business card still serves an important function – it gives you an easy way to pass your details to another person, and it also makes it easy for that other person to retain that information!
However, your business card also shows that you’re a professional. That little card is more than just your contact details – it also portrays your company branding, ethics and quality.
Make sure you’re ordering quality
This leads onto this second point – make sure you’re ordering a card that truly signifies the quality of your business. There are cheap (usually online) printing companies out there, that can cut the costs down by giving you a slightly smaller, thinner business card – but is it reflective of your company? It makes sense to go with the best quality business card that you can afford – if you’re looking to come across as a quality, professional company.
Print options
When it comes to designing your cards, think about how what you need. Yes, you need a quality card stock, and it’s always a good idea to use both sides of the card, but you may not need Spot UV. Most business card printers give you the option of adding varnish anyway, to make your card last longer and look better. (Personally, I like to be able to write on a business card and get frustrated when someone has a shiny finish to their card and my ink just won’t let me add something special about that person.) However, Spot UV (where you only varnish certain areas of the card), isn’t worth it – as it will almost double the cost of your cards. The only time I’d recommend using it, is if you’re wanting to create an impact and it’s important for you to highlight specific areas on your card.
Don’t go overboard
If you’re designing your own business cards, please don’t let your creative juices run riot! It’s best to stick with only the essential information, such as name, contact number, email and website address – and make sure your logo is the biggest element on the card. When it comes to colour choice, limit yourself to 2 or 3, otherwise it’s going to look too busy, and make sure you select a font that is easy to read.
Video cards
If you want to create a striking impression with your potential contacts and clients, check out the new video business cards. They’re Wi-Fi and Bluetooth compatible and great for those who want to leave a lasting impression – such as speakers, actors, artists and other creative businesses. (They are expensive, so I would suggest these industries keep a stock of normal cards too!)
I believe business cards are still essential for business owners to have, regardless of the type of business they’re in. And, if you follow the advice above, you’ll be ensuring that your business card is creating the right impact for your business.
What are your thoughts about business cards? Do you think they’re still essential for businesses today, or are they something you think we can easily do without? Why not share your thoughts on today’s blog, along with your experiences and opinions, in the comments box below!