Business cards – still required.
Business cards are still necessary. It is inevitable; we live in a digital era in which we rely on social media, smartphones and the web as a whole to connect us to other individuals. This form of networking has become extremely popular and has started to replace business cards and other physical networking tools. According to an article on the design blog Creative Overflow, the web blends users together. It is difficult for users to appear unique when they do not have anything tangible to present to others. Although we have advanced into the digital age, we still need to keep in mind how to stay personal. Business cards are still one of the best ways to add a personal touch all while presenting something physical to clients, employers and colleagues. Why?
Despite the fact our individual worlds are ruled by all of our technological devices, business professionals expect business cards. Business cards are affordable and are easy to transport making them wonderful on-the-go networking tools.
A business card should capture an individual’s personality in a creative fashion. Some contact information should be listed like name, position and occupation, phone number, address, email address or a personal website. The card should be legible, free of errors and professional.
Business cards reflect your brand.
Business cards do not have to look stark. Instead, they should help carry through a brand. By simply applying a logo, contact information or slogan, your individual or company brand becomes recognizable in the physical world, not just on the web.
Creativity is the key to success when it comes to making a business card. Play up color, patterns and other elements that will add to its visual appeal. But do not overdo it. Standard business cards are generally 3.5 inches wide by 2 inches tall; so consider simplicity your friend. Remember these two objectives when creating a business card: display contact information clearly for networking purposes and creatively promote your brand. Also, be aware that many organizations like whitespace on their business cards so that people they give them to can write brief notes on them. Always ask your client/yourself if white space is something that is needed.
A unique way to mesh the world of print with the web is to make business cards more “tech savvy.” Business cards with QR codes can be scanned by smartphones and will take customers to an individual or company website. Although for a few years (2009 – 2012) this was a popular way of bringing the two worlds together, there has been some push back lately because the use of QR codes is waning – with the exception of trade shows and conferences where there is still some usage.
Take the time to create business cards that truly represent your brand. Showcase your personality and interests and just have fun with the overall process. They are almost always printed in bulk so have a decent amount with you while you are on the go. Remember, there are plenty of situations where your business card will compliment the first impression you give to people you meet – it is, after all, your calling card.
Despite all of the advancements with technology and online networking, business cards are still essentials for every business professional.
