One of the best marketing tools around is the business card. The use of the business card sometimes sparks discussion between those that think such a card is past history and those that think the business card is as important as it ever was. With the wonders of the Internet it takes but seconds to find contact information for any business, however, not everyone has the Internet at their fingertips 24/7.
What is the Purpose of a Business Card?
Business cards are often shared during introductions and serve two purposes. The first is a memory aid, and the second is to offer contact information. The business cards contain the contact information of the business including name, address, web address, telephone and fax numbers, email address and the business person’s name. Business cards typically measure 3.5” long and 2” high.
Business cards are not only a very effective introduction, but they often provide the first impression a business has to offer. The business cards that are most effective are the ones that are unique in design with a catchy graphic. Business cards offer the contact information in an orderly manner and the information is always up to date and spelled correctly. It would be difficult for a potential client to find a business with incorrect information.
Business Card Design
Cards can be single or double sided, color or black and white, horizontal or vertical in orientation and fold over or tent style. Fold over or tent style is sized to 3.5”x 2” when folded. The fold over card is sometimes the same card on both sections separated by a perforation that allows the recipient of the card to pass the second card on to another person. Business cards can also be printed on glossy-card stock. The thickness of the card stock and the glossy finish enhances the colors and prevents the colors from bleeding. The card can be single or double side glossy.
Business cards can be designed by a professional graphic artist or business card designer or the card can be designed using a program that has built in templates and customized for each individual business. The business card design programs are fairly inexpensive, and some are available through shareware programs.
It is important that the design programs have a wide variety of graphics or have the ability to import other images and graphics. Fonts are another consideration when designing business cards. A variety of fonts in the program will allow the business card design to be eye catching and effective in appeal. The most important aspect of the business cards design programs is the user friendliness of the program.
Design Considerations
When designing business cards, it is necessary to give some thought to the layout of the card. It is a small area, but it is important to be utilized properly. The person looking at the card should be able to see the card and its contents without being distracted with a lot of background information. If the design is simple, it will be easy to read and a card that will stick in the mind of the person that has it. The purpose of the business cards is to attract attention, introduce the company or business and be filed away rather than thrown away.
Business cards can be designed through a print shop. The print shop usually has a web page with a built in business card design element. The customer creates an account and then begins the design process. The programs are easy to use and step by step directions are always provided. The customer chooses the template to use and fills in the necessary information. There is an option to include a graphic that represents the business or the customer can choose to include their own picture on the card. Once the design is set and has been proofed for errors, the customer presses the print button and away it goes.
Once you receive your cards from the printer, keep them stored in a box or case until they are needed. Only clean, crisp business card should be offered. Business cards with bent and creased corners will leave a bad impression with the person who receives the card. It will most likely be used as a coffee mug coaster rather than a source of information.
Sources:
Colleen Kelley - I have been a freelance writer since 2000. I write, edit and publish newsletters for four non profit organizations and several ...
Join the Conversation