Apr
The business card is far from an antiquated practice – it’s actually evolving and thriving. A study by design crowd of over 1,000 businesses in North America tells us 87 percent of people still hand out business cards when they meet new contacts. Despite a disengaged world due to the prevalence of smart phones and other devices, business cards still matter in the digital age.
So how can you make yours really have an impact?
Make it Stand Out
Think about what makes a business card from another person really attract you to it. Look through your business cards and see which ones you remember. Think about colors like red, adding a colorful image, or choosing a vertical format as opposed to the common horizontal layout. Do things to make your card unforgettable.
Give it a Purpose
Obviously, your business card is intended for communication. But cards that multi-task will be seen even more often than your ordinary run-of-the-mill business card. Turn it into a bookmark, a note card, a sticker or anything else you can think of. If it’s a conversation piece, your business will become part of the conversation.
Support a Cause
A successful business goes hand-in-hand with social impact today – 94 percent of consumers would switch brands to support a cause. Use your card to show people what causes drive you. Your card can work as a vehicle to make a change for the better, and the recipients will gain an understanding of your drivers and values as a person and a professional.
Put a Face to the Name
Have you thought about putting your photograph on your business card? This is a great way for people to associate you with your business long after you shake hands. A photo adds familiarity too and is one of the many easy ways to build your brand and increases your likeability factor, plus it makes you stand out from your competition.
Challenge Recipients
Write a fun fact on your business card to surprise and challenge people. Think about trivia that relates to your business – a simple fact could spark a conversation about marketing strategies or ideas. Engage and amuse your recipients and they won’t forget you or your business.
Add Credibility
Customers can relate to other customers – which makes testimonials speak volumes about your business. Select a place on your card where you have some open, valuable space and consider adding a link to testimonials or brief quote.
Keep it Clean
Never underestimate the power of a clean design with readable text and no clutter. A too-busy card will hide the message your business is trying to convey. Use your logo as the basis for the card’s design. Your logo is like your brand’s signature and a noticeable company logo is something people will remember.
Business cards are a small piece of your personality, and they tell a story. Your business card isn’t just a piece of paper – it’s a snapshot of your brand that acts as a miniature ad. Make your business card one nobody will forget.
What have you done to build a powerful and memorable business card?
