Getting some business cards printed is the next logical step if you’re serious about starting your own business. In fact, for many consumers, it will be their first experience with your company; therefore, it must go well.
Your business card should be more than just a list of contact details. It will elevate your company’s credibility, inspire confidence in your brand, and differentiate it from competitors. First, however, you should ask yourself, “What constitutes a good business card?” before you start handing it out to everyone you meet. What can you do to make it stand out from the crowd and, perhaps, attract more customers?
The secret is the right mix of content and presentation in your business card design software. Here are some guidelines to help you create a business card that does you (and your company) justice.
Template Highlighting Brand’s Personality
Your business card reflects you and your company; it should be tastefully designed to convey your company’s values. For example, perhaps you are a minimalistic interior designer who prefers sleek, modern furnishings; if so, your template should reflect that. On the other hand, maybe you’re a dog walker with a lively personality, so a more colorful card would better express the light-hearted spirit of your business.
Choosing the Right Typeface
You should use the same typeface on your business card, website, and other promotional materials. It is essential to pick a legible typeface fitting your brand’s aesthetic. Everything you write needs to be at least 8 points large, but you can make certain elements stand out by printing them in a larger size, a different typeface, or in bold.
Size and Shape of Print
Your business card’s size and orientation determine the impression it gives and speaks volumes about your company. The standard business card is a horizontally aligned rectangle, roughly the size of a credit card. This layout is standard, but if you really want to make an impression, try something different.
Accurate Information
Speaking of details, a customer’s business card should have all the data they need to get in touch with you, visit your website, or identify your physical location. For example, include your company’s name, phone number, website, email address, and social media accounts in addition to your name and work title. Make sure your business card has all this data so that the clients can get in touch with you in whatever way is most convenient for them.
The business card creator should keep the card’s layout in mind. Information should stand out clearly while also flowing naturally together. Business cards should have a strong visual flow from the logo to the name to secondary information like email addresses and phone numbers.
Doing Double Duty
Put your business card to do double duty for you and your start-up. Appointment reminders, loyalty stamps, or a blank canvas to promote your brand can all be found on the back. You may increase the longevity of your business card by transforming it into a magnet. This strategy is ideal for companies that provide ongoing services, such as plumbing, gardening, pet sitting, hair styling, automobile detailing, dining, and hospitality industries. Your customers will display these magnets in their kitchens so that they can keep your contact information close at hand. You can make your business card go further, endure longer, and leave a more memorable impression by using it in various creative ways.
Maximizing Logo
Your card is more than your contact information; it represents you and your brand. Having a defined logo and established brand colors should precede any thoughts about designing new business cards. These aspects are the cornerstones of your visual identity, and they will inform the rest of the design of your card.
The logo is an essential part of a business card; therefore, it could be a good idea to feature it prominently on at least one side of the card. In addition, it should be displayed in a highly visible area for maximum impact as a visual representation of your company.
White Space
When designing, it is nice to leave some blank space so the eye can rest, and it can also help attract attention to the most crucial parts of the card. Leave a little extra space on your business card before handing it out to someone; this will allow you to write down your new phone extension or the name of a colleague you would want potential clients to meet.
Adding Something Special
Special finishes can have a significant impact on attracting and retaining customers, business partners, and clients. Using a unique design element or a fancy web-to-print treatment is a simple method to give your card a more visual appeal. Consider how these extras will fit into your brand’s overall image; for example, a shiny foil accent on a business card can seem out of place if you work in a more low-key industry.
Good Call to Action
While not required for a business card, a call to action might help nudge onlookers into taking action. Create an incentive for your business to exciting clients, such as a limited-time deal, a helpful suggestion, or a coupon code.
Include a QR code in your call to action. People’s familiarity with scanning QR codes is growing, so including one on your business card is a fantastic way to direct customers to your site, get them on your mailing list, or offer them a discount with just a single click.
Takeaway
Your business card represents you and your company, not just a listing of your contact details. You need your card to not only be noticeable but also to depict you positively. Take your time conceptualizing the ideal layout, and then hire a professional designer to bring your ideas to life.
