Although we love the internet and all it’s powerful tools to help entrepreneurs succeed, there are some “old school tools” that are must haves of good branding and business etiquette. For example, no matter how much I try to use my ipad and the many different note taking apps I downloaded, I’m still hooked to the ol’ pen and paper. As a matter of fact, I confess that I buy sketch books and Moleskine notebook just because I like to collect them. Yes…i’m weird, don’t judge me.
Your Business Card is a very important part of your brand. It will never go away. When you meet new people and get the chance to have face to face conversations, a memorable business card will leave a good impression that will keep your name fresh in your contact’s mind.
But what exactly makes a memorable business card that will make you unforgettable? Well, I think the best way to find out is studying the (cue dramatic echo) ANATOMY OF A MEMORABLE BUSINESS CARD. Look at the image below:
1. Important Information should stand out
Your business card should make it easy to scan your contact information: your name, email, website, phone number, social media, etc. Remember your business card is not a brochure, it’s a quick document that shows who you are, how awesome is your brand, and how to contact you. Also remember that many people (like me) scan other business cards into their smartphones and save them into their contacts app, so you want to make it easier for them to save your info into their phones.
2. Consistent branding
Yes you should make your business card look pretty and stuff, but your branding should match your other marketing materials like your website. At least include your logo and your color palette and you will be fine.
3. Quality images
I’ve seen business cards with all sorts of image blunders: Pixelated images, low quality photos, people images that apparently were taken using a web cam, Microsoft Office clip arts, and water marks. Listen, the visuals used in your business cards are do or die. Don’t skimp on something as important as your first impression.
4. Less is more
Again…it’s a business card, not a brochure. You don’t really need to show a gallery of all your work. Want to give a sample of what you can do? Excellent! Choose ONE image and carry on.
5. Good paper
Some people recommend you don’t use glossy paper, others say you should. I say, do what you want as long as you choose paper with good weight and hold ink beautifully. In other words…don’t use normal letter paper. Thank you.
6. What’s your offer?
If you want your business card to be more than a contact sheet, I recommend you invest some space stating what you offer. Maybe a small list of three services or a tag line. This serves as a extra punch to give your contacts an idea of what they can achieve by working with you.
7. Use both sides
I’m a fan of using both sides of your business cards. Why? Well first because you might find it disrespectful that someone decides to use the back of your business card as a note pad to write down other’s contact information. It has happened to me before…I’m still healing.
Another good reason to use both sides of your business cards is to make your brand shine. You can display your logo and tagline/offering in full glory. You have two sides to make an impression…use them!
8. Pocket Friendly
Sometimes we get so creative we forget to be practical. Remember that your business card should fit nicely in a pocket, a wallet, or a business card storing binder. Circular business cards are nice, but if not done right could end up as a cup holder. Small trip like business cards are innovative, but if not done right could end up in the dumpster or wondering alone in the wind because they are easy lo loose. The standard size of a business card is 3″x2″; almost every business card accessories people use observe these dimensions.
9. Is available
What good is a business card if you never have one with you? Have your business cards with you at all times; just not on your wallet because that damages the cards. Buy a card holder and carry it with you everywhere. And by carry it with you I mean take it out of the car.
10. Innovation with a purpose
I’ve seen all sort of gimmicks in business cards. From foldable like an origami to edible (really, what good is it for you if your contact eats your business cards? Unless it gives them a fiery diarrhea they’ll never forget…that’s memorable) Call me old school, but many times simple trumps wacky. Yes, a gimmicky business card can be memorable and nice, but if it has no real purpose besides being funny…well it’s just wasted money…like those happy meals toys.
11. Good grammar
Nothing says “don’t make business with this person” like bad grammar. Please be careful you never hand a business card with your name like this: Bob Smith, prizident. People will ask themselves “President of what? Stupid Inc.?” Watch your grammar. It’s important.