Business cards are interesting little pieces. We often refer to them as “mini marketing cards.” Even though they’re small, they communicate a lot about you and your business. When you hand someone a business card, you want them to stop for a second and really notice the card before they put it in their wallet. Because the more likely they are to remember the card, the more likely they are to remember you.
So, how do you know if your business card is making a bad first impression?
Is it boring? Cheap templated business cards that look the same as your competitors are boring. They get thrown away or lost at the bottom of a purse. To make your business card stand out, consider a unique finish such as spot UV or painted edges. At One Step, we opted for a 38pt triple thick card with velvet coating and we are constantly getting comments on how unique it is.
Is it too busy? Business cards are meant to communicate contact information. Not your entire resume. Stick to the basics and provide a website where interested parties can see your full list of accomplishments.
Is it broken? Business cards that are thin and flimsy tear easily. How embarrassing to hand a potential client a torn or wrinkled business card! To avoid this, consider printing on a thicker paper stock with a protective coating. Our 19pt soft touch business cards are made with a strong paper that is still thin enough to fit in a wallet, with a smooth coating that feels like satin.
Here are a few more tips for creating a business card that makes an impressive first impression:
- Consider leaving the back blank, or with very minimal design, so the person receiving it can write a note to help them remember who you are.
- Consider adding a photo. This is definitely not for everyone, but if you run a small business and you are often the person clients interact with in person (ie, a real estate agent, a handyman, a hair stylist) consider adding your photo to the card. That way, those who are good with faces but terrible with names are more apt to remember you.
- Consider an odd shape or size. We’ve printed square business cards, tented/folded business cards, and cards in the shape of a paw print.
- Make it magnetic. This is particularly effective as a mailing piece. When you send someone a magnetic business card, they are likely to stick it on their fridge and reference it the next time they need your services.