In a world of online connections and instant access to information, you may be tempted to neglect the idea of a tangible business card. But that would be a big mistake.
The act of giving away business cards is still the preferred method of circulating contact information in most business circles. It can be awkward to fumble with your phone to exchange numbers or email addresses, but a business card can be handed to the other party right after the initial handshake or greeting.
A business card is one of the best ways to market yourself and introduce others to your brand without being pushy or forcing them to take any action. When you hand out your business card, you are providing the other party with a physical reminder of whom you are and what you have to offer.
If you want your business to be remembered, here are six ways to make your business card stand out from the rest of the pack.
1. Summarize
Your business card isn’t your autobiography; it’s simply a chance for your name and contact information to be put in the right hands. Use the card to market your brand with your logo, colors and other necessary facts (i.e. job title, specialties, etc.). Don’t overload the card with mission statements, puns or excessive text.
2. Identify
The card should clearly state who you are and what you have to offer. Use standard industry terms and titles that communicate exactly what you do. Don’t try to be clever or too general with your job title, as some people may not understand what you do or where you fit in with their professional connections.
3. Brand
Branding for your card can be as simple as your name, logo, colors and even your picture. While some people will be hesitant to put their picture on a business card, it might help promote your brand effectively, especially if you are your only employee or work in client-facing or on-camera professions. When used right, branding elements can be much more recognizable than just a name on a card.
4. Customize
Business cards need to stand out for the right reasons, and not because they are seen as overly flashy or gaudy. If you think you need them, go for the subtle touches, such as a textured finish, metallic shimmer, rounded edges or even a watermark. If not, the choice of a lighter or darker color and a nice font might be all the customization you need.
5. Spend
Don’t be too cheap with your card. People can tell when you use an online template, which isn’t as impressive as a custom-designed card.
The font should be readable, and the print should be crisp, which are two things that a high-quality printing company can help with. If you use colors or graphics, they should be as bright or muted as originally designed and not adapted to fit within a color-based price tag.
6. Make It Double-Sided
Consider putting your website URL, links to your portfolio or any other relevant sites in a large font on the back. There is no good reason to leave the back of a business card blank when you want to stand out from the others. It can even be smart to use an embossed font on either side so the other party will actually feel the difference in your card versus others they may receive.
Don’t Neglect the Power of Business Cards
As much as email might make you think otherwise, business cards are still an important part of marketing. Even though today’s workforce is more mobile and constantly in flux, face-to-face meetings are still very important. Despite our dependence on technology to conduct business, business cards will always be a versatile way to expand your network.