Some may say that business cards are a thing of the past, but with how many orders we print at Alexander’s, we’re pretty sure thats’s not the case. However, we do see some customers struggling to make their business card an effective sales and networking tool. While much depends on the person handing out a business card, the card’s effectiveness begins before the card is ever printed.
We’ve compiled 5 elements of an effective business card to help you leverage the power of a business card.
1. Think about materials
If you really want people to hold onto your business card consider using something other than a thick cardstock. Maybe you want to create a card that folds, or maybe you want to print on metal or clear plastic. We’ve even seen fruit leather business cards. So before you start designing, think about your substrate options. Even if you’re going for a more standard look, talk with your printer about triple-thick cards or other options to make your card stand out.
2. Don’t scrimp on graphic design
If you don’t have an in-house graphic designer, paying for graphic design services can be a little expensive. However, more often than not, the cost is worth it. Why bother handing out cards if the design is bad? If you want your card to work the way it should, invest a little more money into creating a card with a unique and memorable design. If you want to make your design go the extra mile, check out these creative business card ideas.
3. Don’t include too much information
Sometimes people ask our graphic designers to create a standard-sized business card with so much information, you can hardly tell it’s a business card. Decide what information is crucial and what’s not. You probably don’t need telephone, fax, email, website, and all of your social media handles. We encourage selecting your top three methods of contact, and leaving the rest off.
4. Go easy on colors
Keep things simple by using just a few colors on your card. Maybe you select a background color and use an offset white text, or perhaps a black and white card with an accent color will be the most effective and organized way to deliver your contact information. Be aware that too much of a good thing is still too much. You want people to remember your card, but you also want them to be able to read and process the information on the card.
5. Include a tagline
Too often people only include their logo and contact information, but a tagline or a brief company description can help prospects understand exactly what you and your company can do for them.
If you could use some help with graphic design or printing, please let us know. We’d love to help.
