In a world dominated by digital… everything, you may be surprised to know that business cards are still one of your most important tools when it comes to making connections and growing your business. During most face-to-face interactions, business cards are still exchanged and if you don’t have one to offer it could result in lost opportunities for you.
“It’s a good way to make a positive first impression, not only of your business but also of you,” says B.J. Chandler, Owner of Mountain View Printing & Graphics Ltd. “It needs to grab their attention without being complicated.”
Your business card is a marketing tool. In addition to providing contact information, it acts as a storefront to your business giving the receiver a quick understanding of what you offer.
Per unit business cards are very inexpensive, which is why it’s worth spending the necessary time and resources to ensure your card portrays the message you want, both literally and subjectively. “There is a big difference between price and cost,” says B.J., referring to Zig Zaglar, successful salesman, author and motivational speaker. “Whenever you try to cut the price, it will cost you in the long run.”
Here are seven tips to help you create an effective business cards that works for you:
Size: Consider the standard business card size which is 3.5” x 2”. Anything bigger, smaller or unconventional may stand out but can be annoying, since it won’t fit into a wallet or business card storage device. Your card could have a horizontal or vertical configuration providing the proportions are the same.
Simplicity: The objective of a business card is to ensure people know who you are and how to get in contact with you. Key information to feature on your business card is your name, company name and/or logo, phone number, email address and website. If space allows and depending how relevant the information is, you can add your title, physical address, cell number, and fax number. Remember to keep it simple to avoid overcrowding.
Legibility: Make sure all text is easily legible. Avoid overuse of script or decorative fonts.
Well-organized: Since most business card storage devices hide one side of the card, keep all important information to one side. The reverse side of your business card is a great place to express your company’s identity. We recommend adding your tagline or mission, or an icon or photo representative of your business.
Design: There are a lot of templates available to help you create your own business card but we recommend you have a professional design it, and we aren’t just saying that so you will pay us to do it. As the first impression of your business, we’re guessing ‘generic template’ isn’t what you’re going for.
Paper: A flimsy business card is like a limp handshake, it’s memorable but not in a good way. Choose a paper stock that has a quality feel, so that your card only leaves a good impression.
Unique: Just because your business card should be simple doesn’t mean it should be boring. Use colour, incorporate an interesting printing technique, or a unique cut; you may be surprised how eye catching and affordable these additions are. Choose one element to highlight to give your card a bit of an edge over every other card/competitor out there.
For more information and to get a business card that works for you contact us. We’re always happy to give suggestions and creative expertise, or offer an estimate on your next project.
“Our integrity is your peace of mind.”
Mountain View Printing & Graphics Ltd. 