We might be in the age of technology, but the paper business card is still one of the most important tools you can have for your business. Since I have been working with Designers Circle, I have collected over 5,000 cards for my files but, unfortunately, a lot of them are very hard to read or don’t have key information. Your card is an extension of yourself. Design it wisely.
Here are some important points to consider when re-designing your card:
Use your logo as the biggest or most noticeable element on the card. Simple dark fonts on a light background are always best. Stay away from those fancy fonts that are hard to read. People should not have to squint to read it or guess what your company name is. Which brings me to size. Yes, size IS important. When I have to use a magnifying glass to read your card, there’s a problem.
Your card should have your phone number with area code that you will answer personally. Put your email on your card and your website if you have one (by the way, if you are in business and don’t have a website, you need to get one!). Don’t keep these items a secret. Websites and emails lead to business, so don’t worry about spam. Just delete. That’s why the “delete” button is on your keyboard.
Don’t cram your autobiography on the card. People don’t need to know your company history, awards and mission statement and everything you have to offer. Save it for your website, or better yet, when you set up a meeting with a potential client share that information. Don’t clutter your card.
QR codes were trendy at one time, but lost their popularity. I would suggest not putting a QR code on your card. If you don’t know what it is, definitely don’t put it on your card.
If you use social media regularly, definitely share. You can use the icons for X (formerly known as Twitter), Linkedin, Facebook, instagram, etc. but, FYI, if these are personal accounts with pictures of kids, your political whining, or pictures you would be embarrassed to show your grandmother, keep these accounts private.
And for Heaven’s sake, bring your cards to networking events. They only work for you when you hand them out.
I have experienced, on a number of occasions, “younger” people who do not possess a business card!
I’ve characterized this group to be in the 35 years or younger crowd.
They will share digital information about themselves, employer, business, etc. with the use of Bluetooth connection between smart phones.
As an engineer & protagonist, I like this method HOWEVER, the antagonist in me will choose security & privacy over that digital exchange. It’s been proven (Norton, McAfee, Trend Micro) the ability to extract files & code from a smart phone when allowing another phone permission – i.e. Bluetooth – to form an electronic connection.
ANOTHER reason to print & use a business card…