10/26

Raise your hand if you still hand out physical business cards. This physical act of introducing yourself remains a powerful tool for making connections and creating a great first- and lasting – impression.

Nowadays, a useful card provides more than just your information though. It serves as a physical reminder of you and is a tangible way to represent who you are and what your company can provide. A well-thought-out and designed card also conveys good traits such as professionalism, attention to detail, and a commitment to quality.

Being remembered for all of the right reasons is especially important in a crowded marketplace where making an impression is crucial (sounds like real estate). But how can that be done? Here are some great tips to keep in mind if we’ve convinced you that it’s time for a business card refresh.

Be sure to tell a story. Sure, your business card should still have your contact information, but if that’s all it has, you’re missing out. You want to stand out both design-wise and how you use the space. Consider using the back of your card to tell a brief story about your business or share a testimonial from a satisfied client.

Be innovative. While business cards may seem a bit old-school as a concept, yours don’t have to be. Think about including a QR code that links to your website, an intro video starring you, or your LinkedIn profile. You can also include a tagline representing what you and your company value the most.

Get creative with design and texture. Business cards should be pleasing to the eye, professional and unique. (Go vertical if it fits you.) A well-designed card will pique curiosity and prompt people to want to hold onto it. (88% of business cards are thrown out within a week, according to a 2019 survey.)  Speaking of feel, experiment with different kinds of finishing touches too. Embossing, foil stamping or a soft-touch matte finish are all good options for something a little extra.

The purpose of business cards has evolved – but these stalwarts of the professional world still have great potential when it comes to doing what any good marketing effort should do: differentiating you from your competition. Don’t underestimate the power of this small but mighty tool—it might just be the key to your next big opportunity.