A business card is often the first thing people see about your business, so it’s extremely important to keep them up-to-date and looking great. It’s only a tiny piece of cardboard, but it can say a lot about your business, employees and the overall personality of your brand.
1. Create a business card that represents your brand – in business card design, the color, texture, shape and more can all play a role. Think card stock, embossed fonts, glosses, colors that pop and bold typographic designs. For example, a divorce lawyer’s business card had a perforated line through the middle so it was easy to tear in two. Simple but effective.
2. Include standard details – company name, card holders name, role, email, phone number and address. Also consider including important online details – such as a web address, Twitter handle, QR Code and more.
3. Keep to the standard business card size so they’re easy to store in rolodexes and wallets. You can still have a distinct, unique business card without having to step away from the standard size.
4. However get creative - and differentiate yourself with creative shapes that fit within the industry standard size, particularly if you’re a creative company or start-up that's looking to stand out.
5. Think about including a photo – a great way to show off your personality and what your brand represents. Play with Instagram filters or ask a business card designer to convert your image to a digital drawing for something a little different.
6. Look to utilise the front and back of the card - you could use a QR code to connect to your online marketing materials. A graphic designer might use all the real estate available, for example a double-sided business card with a full width graphic on one side. Party on the back, professional on the front.
7. Enlist the help of a professional designer for some creative inspiration and expertise. Do not resort to clip art - ever. Your business card will be how people you meet will remember you so its important to get it right.
This article originally appeared in Start Your Business Mag
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Written by Jo Sabin on Friday, August 15, 2014
Jo Sabin is Head of Designer Community at DesignCrowd. She's led the company's public relations and social media programs since 2012. With more than ten years' experience working with Australian and international tech startups in the creative industries, Jo has been instrumental in meeting DesignCrowd's objectives in Australia and abroad. Get in touch via Twitter.
