While living in a digital world it may not seem important to have a physical business card anymore, however, when meeting with prospective clients or collaborators, you’re missing out on a key marketing opportunity.
With your first impression, you want to be able to engage and attract a potential customer. So, you do this, but then what happens? How do you exchange information without it getting awkward? One of the best ways to do this is with a well-designed, simple to understand business card.
You’re probably thinking, “no one uses business cards anymore” but I remember going to events this past year collecting business cards and then reaching out to every single person to see if we could have a potential collaboration. So yes, people still use business cards.
This in it of itself is a challenge, yet also an opportunity. To stand out you need to create a design that looks appealing and helps you differentiate yourself. Don’t just think or the plain white card with black text giving the typical information. Think bigger, think smarter.
These business card tips may just save you and your business:
Know what you want to convey
Of course, you want to share your name and email address, but what else? What else do you want to share with your audience that can trigger them to give you a call or send you an email?
Of course, your website, email address and phone number are essential. But many businesses no longer include an address on their business cards, so if you’re struggling for space, you may want to remove this from your design unless it is crucial for your business.
Think about this: What if you had a discount code for someones first purchase on your card? This is also something that people can remember you by.
Colorful v.s Black & White
When thinking of what colors to use, make sure to have them be in line with the rest of your company’s branding. If not, then you have a little more freedom to do what you would like with your card.
Bright colors can make a business card stand out, and look distinctive. You see this a lot with businesses that are more in the creative industry, those who aim to appear innovative, original and new. However, never underestimate the power of simplicity. A plain black and white design can be just as memorable and engaging as a colorful card.
Get Creative
Business cards don’t have to be flat and static. They also don’t have to be the typical rectangular shape. Think of your industry, think of your product and see if there is a way that you can get creative to have a memorable business card. You can use virtually any shape: animal mascots, outlines of products you sell or have it be a complete original shape. Having a creative design can be a breath of fresh air to anyone on the receiving end.
Lastly, always this about this: How does your market perceive your brand? And, how do you want your market to react to your brand? Answering these questions will help you when you are finalizing your business card designs.
At the end of the day, you can use your own creativity to design a business card that represents the company brand. Take total control over how the card looks and feel. This simple but powerful design interface will help to build the brand name you feel proud of.
