Whether you are a professional, freelancer, or you own a company, it is crucial to have business cards as the basic presentation tool of your profession, degree, status, and your company. So, what you should consider, while working on your business card design? Think about your business card as a most natural way to provide the most important information about yourself and your business. Note that you may have just a single chance to make a good impression on your potential customer and employer. In some cases, your business card can also get you ahead in the non-business related social interactions wherever you go, and whenever you meet new people. Nice, creative, professional business card says a lot about its owner, and can give either good or bad publicity.
Business cards design largely depends on the type of business or line of work, you represent. In many cases, people might have several sets of business cards, for example, one – presenting their business, another – their hobby.
Professional Look
The most obvious reason for having a business card is to be able to easily provide your contact information to potential clients and employers. You don’t want to be left in a situation where you are promoting your business, and then searching for a scrap of paper to jot down your phone number, email address and website. Having your card on you at all times will insure that you are providing people with clear and accurate information. It is important to look professional and legitimate, and a business card is the first step.
Show Off Your Work
A business card serves as a mini portfolio…the first example of your design work that you are showing potential clients. The design, and message, of the card itself can make it stick in people’s minds and convince them to contact you for their next big project. The card should reflect your own personal style, so people have a tiny glimpse into your work that makes them want to see more. This is not to say a simple card cannot do the trick, but even a basic design can have the small touches that impress your next client.
What to Include
Before working on the actual design of the card, decide what you want to include on it. Most commonly, a business card will include any of the following:
1. Your Name
Obvious I know, but please make it easy to find and read. No mouse-type and don't bury it among other information.
2. Your Title
You'd be surprised how many people leave this off. I recently received the business cards from two gentlemen who work for a major public relations firm. One is the founder and president, the other an assistant. Neither of their cards feature job titles. If time goes by and I forget who they are, or if I pass along their cards or contact info to someone else, they might not have any idea one of them is the owner of the company.
Too bad. It doesn't cost any more to print a title on the card.
3. Your Business Name
Most people get this one right. If, however, you don't have a business name, and you're operating as "Mary Smith, Accountant" you need to get one. Even if you're operating as a sole proprietor, a business name tells your prospects you're serious, that this is a business and not a hobby.
4. Your Mailing Address
Make it easy for people to contact you. Five of the 20 business cards I just pulled out of my files do NOT include a mailing address. If you work out of your home and don't want to publish your home address, get a P.O. Box or Postal Mail Box.
This again will help establish yours as a bona fide business and not just a hobby.
5. Your Email Address
Most people are pretty good about including his, but many are still using personal email addresses instead of "yourname@yourbusinessname.com". Be professional and obtain and use an email address that features your web site domain name. It says you're a professional AND it reinforces your brand/business name.
6. Your Phone Number and Fax Number (if you have one)
You may also include your cell phone number if you choose to. Whatever phone numbers you include, make sure they are clearly marked. How many times have you picked up a card and dialed a fax number by mistake only to receive that lovely screeching sound in your ear!?!
Make sure the font size is readable. You want to make it easy for prospects and clients to call you.
7. Your Logo Mark
This is one of the items I often see missing from small business owners' cards. Probably because they don't have a logo mark. A logo mark is your opportunity to begin establishing your brand. It sets the tone and personality for your business. In my opinion, it is a business must-have.
If you think you're not big enough or can't afford a logo, think again. If you want to be taken seriously as a business you need one.
8. Your Tagline
This is another one I scarcely see. What is a tagline? It is a short statement that sums up the solution you provide, or the key message or unique selling proposition for your business. When combined with your business name and logo, it communicates a lot about your business.
It's a huge missed opportunity when you leave it off your business card.
9. Your Web Site Address
The most common reason for leaving this off a business card is not having a web site. I believe ALL businesses should have a web site. It gives your prospects and clients the opportunity to easily learn more about your business and the products or services you provide, if they're not yet ready to contact you directly.
10. A Call-to-Action
This is one that most people do NOT include, but one that can provide a huge opportunity. If you look at your business card as a promotional tool, why not include a call-to-action, such as "Visit our website at [your website address] to get your Free Report, [Free Report Title]."
Use it as a way to drive traffic to your web site and generate new leads or prospects. It costs next to nothing and can make a huge impact, especially if you hand out a lot of cards.
Having all of these content items on your card would most likely be overwhelming and crowded on the small space of a card. Only include what is essential. Along with these items, consider including a message that will speak to your target audience.
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