For many people business cards are their only marketing tool, especially for those just starting up a new business. Some people think a business card that can be designed and printed on their home computer will be a good enough. But business cards are one of the most overlooked of all business and marketing tools. A well-designed, professional business card makes you and your business look professional; while a homemade/cheap business card gives off the impression of an amateur taking a stab at being in business.
As a business card designer based in Cardiff I’d like to give some insight into what makes a good business card. Here are a couple of things to consider when it comes to designing and creating a good business card:
Contact details:
Are you including all your contact details? Your company name and email may not be enough? I’m not saying you have to put your date of birth and blood type, but it might be worth putting on the essentials: 1. your name, 2. your telephone, 3. email address and 4. website address.
Font type and size:
Make sure the contact details are legible. If the font type is too small or hard to read due to a contrasted background, the point of having a business card is lost.
Spacing:
Keep your card uncluttered. It’s tempting for people to save money by just printing one side of your business card; however it’s worth the extra money to have a complete design on both sides. This allows you to have room for a nice size logo and more space for your contact information.
Pro tip: having extra white space also lets people to scribble notes and details on your business card. This enables them to remember you and write note on meeting you. (“Met John Doe in xx location, potential client”).
Card Quality:
Having your card printed on good quality card is a must. You never know where your business card may end up. If your card is being passed around and it’s made of cheap paper, it’s likely to get a bit worse for wear and thrown away. A good quality card could last/be past on for years.
Card Size:
Choosing the size of your business card is also very important. Generally people and business men keep business cards in holders or wallets; if your card doesn’t fit it won’t be kept. But there are many experimental business cards that don’t belong in wallets; these are for more specialist circumstances.
Maybe even add your address or a short statement about your business. However, as with most things, less is more, so avoid using your business card as a mini advertisement. The key point to remember is that your business card reflects you and your business, so make sure it reflects well.
