Top 10 Tips for Building the Perfect Business Card
A business card is the lasting impression you leave with someone after you meet. Make yours stand out! Follow these ten simple tips to ensure all of your contacts remember you as a true professional.
1) Customize and Create -
Make your card a memorable one. Anyone can hand out a cookie-cutter business card, but the professional who expresses their organization’s message and personality through their card will have the edge on the competition.
2) Avoid Flimsy Cards -
Handing out thin, flimsy cards will signal that you put little thought and even less effort into the development of your card. Use high-quality cards with a glossy or matte finish for a sharp look.
3) Use the Back of Your Card -
Include coupons, calendars, appointment cards, product information, customer testimonials or quotes from your company’s leader.
4) Add a Face to the Name -
Adding your photo to a business card can be a great way to build professional relationships. Trust is the key to a lasting and profitable business relationship and giving your organization a face can help this along.
5) Don’t Forget the Basics -
It may seem obvious but some professionals fail to list all necessary information on their business cards. The basic elements of a business card include your name, title, company name and URL, and all contact information including fax number.
6) Colorful Cards -
Make sure your cards are full-color to cast a bright, eye-catching image and stand apart from the competition.
7) Different Cards for Different Folks -
Your company needs to be all things to all people so why not have multiple card designs when you have to influence very different audiences with very different needs?
8) Font Size Matters -
Never use font smaller than 8-10 point on your business card. Cards that have its readers reaching for eyeglasses will only cause frustration. While it’s great to be stylish, avoid using an ultra fancy font that’s on the verge of being illegible.
9) Brag About Yourself -
Tell the world if you or your organization has won awards. Proudly list any awards on the front or back of your card as it can only enhance your contact’s interest in doing business with you. Whether you are a M.D., L.M.H.C., or PhD, list your qualifications and educational status. It won’t take up much space and it will signal that you are knowledgeable and experienced.
10) Don’t Break the Bank -
Business cards are worth every penny but you don’t have to spend a chunk of your marketing budget on them. Search for free business card offers and enlist the services of a company that can produce high-quality yet affordable cards.
No matter your budget, these simple tips will enable you to create business cards that put yourself and your organization on the profitable road to customer retention and acquisition.
Melissa Crowe is the vice president of marketing services at Vistaprint, an online supplier of graphic design and printed products to small businesses and consumers.